Conquer Scotland's Peaks: Winter Mountaineering with Mollie Hughes
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
10–12 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have strong cardiovascular fitness, endurance for steep climbing, and experience in cold weather conditions.
Overview
Join world record-holder Mollie Hughes for a challenging winter mountaineering adventure on Scotland’s iconic peaks. Learn vital skills while exploring Bidean nam Bian and Buachaille Etive Mor in a small group setting.
Winter Mountain Experience with Mollie Hughes
Up to 6 people • ~12 Hours • Minimum age 16
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About This Adventure
Embark on an exhilarating winter mountaineering adventure with world record-holder Mollie Hughes in Scotland's breathtaking landscapes. Experience the thrill of navigating iconic peaks like Bidean nam Bian and Buachaille Etive Mor while mastering essential winter skills. Join a small group for a challenging day that promises unforgettable memories and personal growth.
A days winter mountaineering with Mollie Hughes
Duration
12 hours
About
Winter in the Scottish mountains is a serious and highly rewarding undertaking. Reduced daylight, snow and continually changing conditions in wild and remote locations make for a real mountaineering adventure.
There are many and spectacular locations to choose from: The famous and iconic peaks of Glen Coe to the little known mountain wilderness of Black Mount, and the Bridge of Orchy region.
Glen Coe is one of the most magnificent areas of natural wilderness in the whole of Britain with many and varied summits and ridges of over 3000 feet. In winter it represents an awe-inspiring and significant challenge.
Summits include Bidean nam Bian which at 1150m is the highest in Glen Coe and Argyle. Other iconic summits we regularly lead client to are Stob Coire nan Lochan, Buachaille Etive Mor and its little sister Buachaille Etive Beag. Together these represent some of the most beautiful mountains in the UK and beyond.
Your professional guide along with Mollie Hughes, in a group of no more than 6, will focus on how to use an ice axe and crampons and how to navigate safely through steep terrain often under snow.
The emphasis will be on winter skills, mountain weather forecasts, avalanche awareness, navigation, accurate decision-making and building confidence in the mountains to become your own independent adventurer.
More info
Spend a unique day winter mountaineering with world record-breaking mountaineer, polar expeditioner and Ocean Vertical Director, Mollie Hughes.
Over the past 10 years she has taken part in many expeditions across the globe, including reaching the summit of Mount Everest from both the northern and southern route.
In 2020 Mollie became the youngest woman to ski solo from the coast of Antarctica to the geographic South Pole, covering 700 miles in 58 days.
Difficulty Level
Challenging
Total Distance
8 - 10km / day
Summit
900m - 1345m
Mountaineering Time
5-8 hours
What's Included
Experienced & qualified guide and Mollie Hughes. Ice Axe Crampons Helmet 25L rucksack Transport to and from the mountains.
What's Not Included
Winter mountaineering boots - crampon compatible Waterproof jacket and trousers Warm clothing Hat and gloves Lunch
What to bring with you
Winter mountaineering boots - crampon compatible Waterproof trousers Please do not use cotton clothing Wool socks Base layer Gloves – plus spares Lightweight fleece Warm hat – plus spare Fleece or soft-shell jacket Spare fleece / warm top Trousers – synthetic that dry quickly Lunch, snacks and drinks Waterproof jacket with hood
Adventure Tips
Check Weather Forecasts
Winter conditions change quickly in the Highlands—review detailed weather updates before heading out.
Dress in Layers
Wear moisture-wicking base layers, insulated mid-layers, and a waterproof outer shell to manage sweat and cold efficiently.
Practice Self-Arrest
Prior to the trip, familiarize yourself with ice axe self-arrest techniques to improve safety on icy slopes.
Start Early
Short daylight hours demand an early start to maximize climbing time and safely descend before dark.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Red deer
- Golden eagle
History
The Scottish Highlands have a rich mountaineering heritage dating back to the 19th century with many pioneering ascents.
Conservation
This trip emphasizes Leave No Trace principles to protect fragile alpine environments and minimize human impact.
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Adventure Hotspots in Ingliston
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Mountaineering Boots
Stiff-soled boots compatible with crampons are necessary for icy terrain and cold conditions.
winter specific
Crampons and Ice Axe
These tools are essential for safety and mobility on snow and ice-covered peaks.
winter specific
Insulated Gloves and Hat
Protect extremities from freezing temperatures and wind chill.
winter specific
Layered Clothing System
Allows temperature regulation and moisture management throughout the day.
winter specific