Winter Mountain Adventure at Ocean Vertical
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
12 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be in good physical condition, accustomed to hiking and able to handle strenuous activity in cold weather.
Overview
Take on the Scottish Highlands with a guided winter mountain adventure, mastering ice skills while conquering iconic peaks like Bidean nam Bian. Discover the rugged beauty of winter mountaineering with Ocean Vertical.
Winter Hillwalking Experience
Up to 6 people • ~12 Hours • Minimum age 16
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About This Adventure
Embark on a thrilling 12-hour winter mountaineering adventure in the breathtaking Scottish Highlands. Guided by an expert, you'll tackle iconic peaks like Bidean nam Bian and Buachaille Etive Mor, mastering essential skills such as ice axe use and navigation. Experience the majestic wilderness and challenge yourself in this unforgettable journey.
A day's adventure deep into the Scottish mountains
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 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
Our Winter Mountaineering trips take place in the Glen Coe and Black Mount region.
Weather conditions play a key role in planning, safety and route choice, and will always dictate the final location on the day.
There are 282 mountains in Scotland over 914m / 3000ft. We are in these mountains year round exploring and guiding clients to summits in wild and remote locations.
During the winter season we focus on the iconic summits of the Western Highlands.
Difficulty Level
Challenging
Total Distance
8 - 15km / 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
Dress in Layers
Wear moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, and waterproof outer shells to stay dry and warm.
Carry Navigation Tools
Always have a map, compass, and GPS device for safety in remote terrain.
Check Weather Conditions
Weather can change rapidly; plan for all conditions and be prepared to turn back if needed.
Stay Hydrated
Bring enough water and consider insulated bottles to prevent freezing.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Red deer
- Golden eagle
History
The Scottish Highlands are steeped in history, from early Celtic clans to legendary tales of clans and castles, all preserved in the rugged landscapes.
Conservation
Ocean Vertical promotes Leave No Trace principles and supports local environmental initiatives to protect these pristine mountain regions.
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Adventure Hotspots in Glasgow
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Crampons
Traction devices essential for icy slopes and snow-covered terrain.
winter specific
Insulated Gloves
Keep your hands warm and dexterous during technical maneuvers.
winter specific
Helmet
Protect your head from falling ice or rocks.
winter specific
Layered Clothing System
Adapt to changing conditions for comfort and safety.
winter specific