Lean conditions but still snow to go at, just. #winterskills #skitouring #winterclimbing

3rd February 2020

There's no getting away from how fickle and lean conditions have been so far this season. The general pattern has been for cold snaps followed by warm weather that has stripped away lots of snow. The effect of this is the base of snow that normally forms is massively reduced in size and the freezing level is higher than usual.

We've been lucky when the weather has turned cold just in time and has brought in snow when we've needed it. Equally though, we've been unfortunate and had to cancel some ski touring and climbing courses as there just hasn't been enough winter. 

When conditions are tough like this, the two things that make delivering good quality training possible are having experienced guides with local knowledge and clients who understand the challenges. Already this winter we've had over 100 clients out on about 40 different cousres, and we've had very positive feedback. 

It's cold at the moment but will warm towards the weekend, the pattern continues.....

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We went on the 2 day Intro to Winter Mountaineering course and couldn't praise it highly enough! Dave was an incredible instructor - friendly, patient and super familiar with all the mountain terrain near Aviemore. We recapped our basic winter skills before progressing onto ropework, belaying and steeper routes. We became more independent the second day, leading the routes with Dave's guidance. Dave was more than happy to tailor the course to our level and needs, allowing us to push ourselves whilst always feeling safe. There are loads of outdoor guides and courses in the Cairngorms, but having now done two courses with Cairngorm Adventure Guides we would recommend them to everyone!

Pete Skidmore, Jan 2025
Hostelling Scotland

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from Hostelling Scotland Aviemore when booking with Cairngorm Adventure Guides.