This course is aimed at ski tourers who have completed around 5 ski tours, are happy descending black runs and off piste, and are now looking to access steeper terrain. The course introduces both the skiing skills and mountaineering skills needed to safely tackle more challenging terrain. The focus is on Scottish terrain but the skills could also be used elsewhere.

Day 1 - The first day will cover use boot crampons, ski crampons and walking with an axe. You will also be shown how to self arrest using an ice axe on foot. You will be introduced to moving in steeper ground and shown how to safely transition from boots to skis and vice versa.

Day 2 - We focus on ways to keep yourself and those travelling with you safe when travelling on steeper ground. You will practise good ski technique when entering a steeper slope and how to make that all important first turn. You will learn efficient and appropriate ropework and will be given the opportunity to build anchors from the snow and your ski equipment. Most of the day is practical but there will also be a strong focus on decision making and planning.

Please read the full prerequisites below.

OVERVIEW

Ratio: 1:6

Cost: £210

Dates: 14th &15th February, or 28th February & 1st March

If the courses are full please note interest here.

PRE-REQUISITES

You would need to be a confident black run and off piste skier who has experience dealing with all the types of snow we might come across (ice, windslab, sustruggi, neve, powder). Some slopes may be up to 35 degrees but we will only venture onto steeper terrain in safe, grippy spring snow conditions.

You Should have a good level of fitness (around 1000metres ascent of vertical on skis).

Under 18s should not attend this course.

If you have had a long break from skiing please make sure you visit your local dry slope or try to get a day of uplift skiing before attending.

You should have completed approx 5 ski tours with people in groups and need to be familiar with ski touring equipment and ideally using it in Scottish conditions.