Scrambling is the activity that links hill walking to rock climbing and mountaineering. It relies on climbing skills but can be easy enough not to need any rock climbing gear or equipment. It is a brilliant way to ascend a mountain requiring a good head for heights, a small degree of agility, and a good eye for route finding. Good map and compass skills are also key to safety for any mountain day.

Scrambles are classified broadly into three grades: 1, 2 and 3, with grade 1 scrambles being easy to follow. In addition you may find some guidebooks star routes according to quality and excitement. Grade 3 scrambles require a particularly steady nerve and dry rock … or more usually technical rock climbing skills.

Good routes … to start on are Sharp Edge, Striding Edge and Jack’s Rake all to be found in the Lake District. More committing are Tryfan’s infamous north ridge, Bristly Ridge and Crib Goch – all to be found in Snowdonia.

Top tip … for trying these routes – if you are not going to be able to down climb the ground in front of you – it’s probably not the way up!

Beware … scrambling is exciting, intoxicating and liberating. But it should also be noted that scrambling as with all outdoor pursuits, carries an inherent risk of injury and death, which cannot be eliminated.

We’d recommend guided scrambling and scrambling courses offered by Will4Adventure.


Will 4 Adventure