Some of the oldest rocks on the planet can be found in Scotland and the ancient rocks of The Outdoor Capital of the UK, Lochaber are especially appealing to rock climbers.
Lochaber may not have a huge population but the area is far larger than you might think.
Dig deeper and you will find that it is made up of several regions, each with its own, distinct flavour, and each offering their own unique Outdoor Capital of the UK Adventure!
Some of the oldest rocks on the planet can be found in Scotland and the ancient rocks of The Outdoor Capital of the UK, Lochaber are especially appealing to rock climbers.
Countless years and ice ages have eroded the hills to their present rough and craggy outline. Many rock types are found here – making for a huge variety of rock climbing in Scotland. Bouldering, roadside crags, mountain routes and Alpine-scale climbs, ice climbing – we’ve got them all. Local mountain guides and instructors can show you the best routes and coach you in all the skills you need to tackle them.
Beyond hill walking but before rock climbing lies an aspect of mountaineering called scrambling: exposed ridges, rocky steps and easy rock climbs that don’t always require a rope but demand a hands-on approach. Scrambling on broken and rocky ground with simple climbing skills and a good head for heights allows you to explore the more dramatic faces of the hills. Because you can climb more continuously when scrambling than with pitched climbing, it gives a great sense of freedom and makes it a good option on colder, wetter days!
The rock climbing and scrambling season starts in May, which is often the sunniest and driest month. The valley crags dry out first and Glen Etive and Ardnamurchan are good options. June can also bring superb weather when the mountain crags in Glen Coe, on Ben Nevis and Garbh Bheinn of Ardgour have dried out and give outstanding climbing. July and August are often slightly wetter so head for the quick-drying crags in Glen Nevis or further east to Ardverikie.
As the colours of the hills start to change in September you need to take the chance to grab the odd day of autumn warmth and splendour.
Scrambling on long rocky ridges such as the Aonach Eagach can give you some of the best days of the year.
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