Start Your Story in Scotland

Where history meets breathtaking beauty, and every visit feels like an escape.

Inspiration for your trip

Step into a land steeped in history and legend, explore our dramatic landscapes and uncover our ancient Celtic roots. Vast lochs, glens and Munros - easily accessible from our vibrant cities and towns - make Scotland the perfect place to lose yourself.

Discover unique experiences in Scotland

Discover hidden gems, plan your perfect trip, or find exactly what you need—from scenic hikes and cosy cottages to events and cultural experiences.

Discover Scotland's vibrant events and festivals

FIFA World Cup 2026

Cheer on Scotland at the FIFA World Cup 2026 and find information about fan zones in Scotland, stadium tours and more.

Highland games in Scotland

From the tug o' war to the caber toss, Scotland's Highland games are not to be missed.

Edinburgh Festivals

Discover Edinburgh's summer festivals, including the world-famous Edinburgh International Festival and Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

Events and festivals in Scotland

There's something happening in Scotland right now that the whole family will love.

Countdown to Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games

Less than 100 days to go until 11 days of world-class action across the city, bringing 3,000 athletes from 74 nations together to compete across 10 sports.

Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games

Start planning your summer break

Witness Scotland step into summer, with longer days and plenty of experiences to enjoy from coastal walks to fun exhibitions.

Summer holidays & breaks in Scotland

Find ideas and inspiration, from family days out to top camping spots, walks and outdoor activities.

Scotland's islands

Find out about the hundreds of islands in Scotland including Arran, Lewis, Skye, Outer Hebrides and Shetland. Plan the perfect island getaway today.

Scottish music festivals

Find out what’s happening in Scotland this year

The best tours of Scotland - luxury & scenic tours

Tour Scotland at your own pace with these fantastic ideas.

Your Scottish adventure starts here

Use our interactive map to explore wild landscapes, vibrant cities, rich culture, and hidden historic gems to craft your personal Scottish experience.

Map of Scotland

As seen on TV!

From Tara Lipinski and Johnny Weir's luxury Scotland itinerary to local suggestions on the highlights of Glasgow and Dumfries & Galloway, check out this top advice on trips across Scotland.

Tara & Johnny's luxury Scotland itinerary

Have you been inspired by Tara & Johnny's Scotland itinerary as seen on NBC's Extra Mile Club? Read on and plan your own Scottish adventure.

Channel 4's Where to next? Scotland itinerary

Follow in the footsteps of comedians Fatiha El-Ghorri and John Tothill on their unforgettable journey through Scotland.

Scotland trip itineraries

Plan your days in Scotland with the help of our suggested itineraries.

Your pictures of Scotland

Share your images by tagging @VisitScotland 

JavaScript needs to be enabled to see social media images for this place. You can turn this on in your browser settings.

Join our Newsletter Clan

Get Scotland inspiration direct to your inbox. Don't miss the inside track from our Scotland experts on exciting trip ideas, unique attractions and hidden gems loved by locals.

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4 day Winter Skills Course

© Active Outdoor Pursuits

Cairngorm

4 day Winter Skills Course & Snowholing Expedition

Get Active on our 4 day winter skills training courses in Scotland – based in the Cairngorms national park near Aviemore, these courses follow on from our one and two day courses in the Cairngorms.

Our Four day winter skills courses in the Cairngorms, Aviemore & throughout Scotland are designed to ensure you have the skills and knowledge to travel safely in the high mountains in winter conditions. These essential skills will be learned and developed throughout your chosen course. The Winter Skills days will utilise the Cairngorms to teach you the fundamentals of hill walking in Winter conditions.

You will get to develop your winter skills and learn new techniques. These include navigation, use of crampons & ice axes, walking safely in the snow, snow-pack analysis, the use of transceivers (including search and rescue techniques), emergency shelters, introduction to rope work, & avalanche awareness/evaluation.

Our winter skills are based at the Cairngorms Adventure Centre and use the Northern Corries and Cairngorm Plateau, one of Scotland’s finest and most accessible high mountain areas, thus maximising your learning time. Other areas that we may use are; Creag Meagaidh, Ben Nevis & Glencoe.

Itinerary

Below there is a break down of what you would gain from the Winter Skills Course. We do also offer one and four day Winter Skills Courses as well.

  • One Day Scottish Winter Skills Course.
  • Winter navigational skills.
  • Winter Crampon & ice axe skills .
  • Safe mountain walking skills in Scottish winter conditions.
  • Snow-pack analysis skills.
  • Avalanche awareness/evaluation training.
  • Scottish Winter weather evaluation skills.
  • Two Day Scottish Winter Skills Courses.
  • Emergency Winter Shelters.
  • Detailed snow-pack analysis.
  • The Use of Transceivers.
  • Basic Introduction to Winter Skills Rope Work.
  • Four Day Scottish Winter Skills Course
  • Search & rescue Scenario.
  • Advanced Winter Skills Rope Work.
  • Steeper ground terrain and management.

On the Scotland Winter skills courses/days in Aviemore & the Cairngorms, you will cover the above skills which are crucial to be able to travel safely in the hills. Of course, the skills you will cover on the Winter skills training will depend on the length of your chosen course. With this in mind, see links to the One & Two day Courses.

Winter Skills Information

  • 07.45 Groups meet & equipment issued.
  • 08.00 Depart for activities
  • Courses will finish around 5pm

Included in the Winter Skills Training

  • On-course transport.
  • Instruction (as outlined).
  • Technical equipment (if required).

Not Included in the Training Course

  • Personal accident Insurance.
  • Waterproofs, base layers, warm layers, gloves (x2 pairs at least),.
  • 40+L rucksack, hat, balaclava & Ski Goggles.
  • Gaiters are desirable.

Pre-Requisites

  • Those booking on to the Scotland winter skills training courses in Aviemore & the Cairngorms should have prior mountain walking experience.
  • A good level of fitness is extremely beneficial.
Want to find out more? 

Take a look at our blog post on Snowholing in Scotland.

From £410 per adult

Departure days

  • Monday
  • Tuesday
  • Wednesday
  • Thursday
  • Friday
  • Saturday
  • Sunday

December — April

Book now

Contact details

Active Outdoor Pursuits

Craigower Lodge
Golf Course Road
Newtonmore
Inverness-shire
Scotland
PH20 1AT
View tour provider details

Key facilities

  • Disabled Parking

Tour information

Starting

  • Aviemore
  • Aviemore and the Cairngorms
  • Newtonmore

Length

4 Days

Transport

  • Minibus
  • Walking

Type

  • Bespoke
  • Medium Group (17-30)
  • Private
  • Small Group (1-16)

Languages

  • English

Themes

  • Outdoor Activities

Tour prices

From £410 Per Adult £410 Per Child

Book now

Prices are subject to change depending on season

Tour Stops

Tour gallery

Active Outdoor Pursuits

Tour company information

Active Outdoor Pursuits

Active Outdoor Pursuits, born in 1999, is one of the most established providers of outdoor activities, education and training in Scotland. We have developed our facilities & services to provide a comprehensive and dynamic approach to supporting people of all ages and experience to realise their outdoor adventure dreams and ambitions. We offer a wide range of outdoor activities and, we can offer packages and holidays to suit all outdoor tastes. Looking for an outdoor adventure or holiday? Then you've come to the right place!

Social Channels

Visit Active Outdoor Pursuits

Opening times

9-6pm

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The content of many of our web listings is provided by third party operators and not VisitScotland. VisitScotland accepts no responsibility for (1) any error or misrepresentation contained in third party listings, and (2) the contents of any external links within web listings ((1) and (2) together hereinafter referred to as the "Content"). VisitScotland excludes all liability for loss or damage caused by any reliance placed on the Content. The Content is provided for your information only and is not endorsed by VisitScotland.

Start Your Story in Scotland

Where history meets breathtaking beauty, and every visit feels like an escape.

Inspiration for your trip

Step into a land steeped in history and legend, explore our dramatic landscapes and uncover our ancient Celtic roots. Vast lochs, glens and Munros - easily accessible from our vibrant cities and towns - make Scotland the perfect place to lose yourself.

Discover unique experiences in Scotland

Discover hidden gems, plan your perfect trip, or find exactly what you need—from scenic hikes and cosy cottages to events and cultural experiences.

Discover Scotland's vibrant events and festivals

FIFA World Cup 2026

Cheer on Scotland at the FIFA World Cup 2026 and find information about fan zones in Scotland, stadium tours and more.

Highland games in Scotland

From the tug o' war to the caber toss, Scotland's Highland games are not to be missed.

Edinburgh Festivals

Discover Edinburgh's summer festivals, including the world-famous Edinburgh International Festival and Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

Events and festivals in Scotland

There's something happening in Scotland right now that the whole family will love.

Countdown to Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games

Less than 100 days to go until 11 days of world-class action across the city, bringing 3,000 athletes from 74 nations together to compete across 10 sports.

Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games

Start planning your summer break

Witness Scotland step into summer, with longer days and plenty of experiences to enjoy from coastal walks to fun exhibitions.

Summer holidays & breaks in Scotland

Find ideas and inspiration, from family days out to top camping spots, walks and outdoor activities.

Scotland's islands

Find out about the hundreds of islands in Scotland including Arran, Lewis, Skye, Outer Hebrides and Shetland. Plan the perfect island getaway today.

Scottish music festivals

Find out what’s happening in Scotland this year

The best tours of Scotland - luxury & scenic tours

Tour Scotland at your own pace with these fantastic ideas.

Your Scottish adventure starts here

Use our interactive map to explore wild landscapes, vibrant cities, rich culture, and hidden historic gems to craft your personal Scottish experience.

Map of Scotland

As seen on TV!

From Tara Lipinski and Johnny Weir's luxury Scotland itinerary to local suggestions on the highlights of Glasgow and Dumfries & Galloway, check out this top advice on trips across Scotland.

Tara & Johnny's luxury Scotland itinerary

Have you been inspired by Tara & Johnny's Scotland itinerary as seen on NBC's Extra Mile Club? Read on and plan your own Scottish adventure.

Channel 4's Where to next? Scotland itinerary

Follow in the footsteps of comedians Fatiha El-Ghorri and John Tothill on their unforgettable journey through Scotland.

Scotland trip itineraries

Plan your days in Scotland with the help of our suggested itineraries.

Your pictures of Scotland

Share your images by tagging @VisitScotland 

JavaScript needs to be enabled to see social media images for this place. You can turn this on in your browser settings.

Join our Newsletter Clan

Get Scotland inspiration direct to your inbox. Don't miss the inside track from our Scotland experts on exciting trip ideas, unique attractions and hidden gems loved by locals.

Get the Scotland newsletter