Snow & Ice Climbing

During the winter months the high peaks of Lochaber are covered in a mantle of snow and ice, making this the premier destination in the UK to practice winter ice climbing and mountaineering.

Scottish winter climbing is a unique combination of climbing style, variable conditions, weather and spectacular scenery – all within reach of a warm hotel in town! From classic gullies, snowed-up rock climbs to water-ice and thin face snow-ice climbs or a mixed climb with a bit of everything, it's all in Lochaber. 

It's a good idea to be aware of the mountain weather before starting your Ice Climbing adventure. You can find information from the MWIS Website: www.mwis.co.uk

Weather Conditions

At the start of the winter, with a covering of snow and a good freeze, mixed climbs in Glencoe and the Grey Corries are the best options. As the freeze continues, watercourses and low-level streams freeze up – creating great water-ice climbs. The January storms bring frequent thaw-and-freeze cycles that leave snow in the gullies and on the faces, transforming them into perfect snow-ice climbs. February could be the most reliable month to ensure a good cover of snow and ice and a good range of possible climbs. Late in the season, after all the lower hills have thawed out, Ben Nevis comes into its own. Its unique thin-face-ice climbs are known around the world as some the best climbs anywhere.

Useful Links

• Abacus Mountaineering
• Wild Adventure