The highest mountain in the British Isles, Ben Nevis standing at 1345m, offers a stunning but challenging landscape, especially in winter. Winter training on Ben Nevis equips adventurers with essential skills for navigating snow-covered trails, ice, and unpredictable weather.
Basic Training
UK Exped - Master the Basics
Take on the highlands of Scotland and master the basics of moutainteering.
Ben Nevis
Expedition
Country
UK
Duration
4 days
grade
Easy 1A
Max Altitude
1345 m
4.411 ft
Daily activity
Approx
7 - 8 hours
Season
Winter
Dates Available
21 Feb - 24 Feb
Starting from
Enquire for prices
Aimed at novice climbers who are looking to push themselves and learn the basics in mountaineering and start the journey into the #Bigmountains
Ben Nevis, located near Fort William in Scotland, is the highest mountain in the British Isles, standing at 1,345 meters (4,413 feet). Known for its breathtaking views and challenging terrain, it attracts hikers, climbers, and mountaineers from around the world. The mountain offers a variety of routes, from the relatively straightforward Mountain Track to more technical climbs on the North Face, popular among experienced climbers. In winter, Ben Nevis becomes particularly challenging, with snow, ice, and low visibility adding to the adventure. It’s a key destination for those seeking both scenic beauty and rigorous outdoor experience in the Scottish Highlands.
During winter on Ben Nevis, adventurers will experience a dramatic, snow-covered landscape, biting winds, and challenging icy paths, demanding both physical resilience and skilled navigation. Our first-ever Winter Skills Course will be split over two days on the hill, equipping you with essential skills such as using crampons and ice axes, navigating snow-covered terrain, and assessing avalanche risks, ensuring you can summit safely while enjoying the climb.
Day one is all about mastering the basics of mountaineering. You’ll learn essential skills such as rope work and belaying, building snow anchors, understanding winter weather patterns, and performing self-arrest techniques to stay safe in steep, icy conditions. These foundational techniques will give you the confidence to tackle winter conditions safely. On day two, you’ll put your new skills to the test as you make a guided ascent to the summit of Ben Nevis, experiencing the thrill and challenge of reaching the UK’s highest peak in winter conditions.
Our experienced guides will be with you every step of the way on your winter course, providing expert instruction, support, and encouragement. With a deep knowledge of mountain safety and years of experience in winter conditions, they will teach everything you need to know to move safely on Ben Nevis.
Our guides are dedicated to helping you build confidence and competence in the winter mountains. They’ll be there to answer questions, offer practical tips, and ensure that every part of your journey is safe, educational, and enjoyable. With their guidance, you’ll gain valuable skills, learning to approach winter mountaineering with the confidence to explore more challenging terrain.
From our clients
This new Winter Skills Course has been designed by our guides, who collectively bring decades of mountaineering experience. As with all adventurous activities of this nature, circumstances may arise where Elite Exped is required to make alterations, possibly at short notice. We make every effort to adhere to the published schedule, and we kindly ask for your patience should weather or other naturally occurring circumstances intervene.
Your daily schedule
- Day 01
ARRIVAL IN SCOTLAND, ACCOMODATION IN ARGYLL
- Day 02
GLENCOE WINTER TRAINING
- Day 03
BEN NEVIS SUMMIT
- Day 04
DEPARTURE
Fast - Track
Plenty of passion, not much time?
We understand the challenges of balancing a busy professional career with a love of mountaineering. Building on Nims record-breaking techniques, our unique Fast-Track expeditions allow you to climb more in less time. View fast-track expeditions
Training
Developing your skills to achieve a new possible
Our tailored approach to training will help you improve as a climber, developing the mental and physical skills you need to achieve your dreams. Learn more
Above + Beyond + Adventure
Practical info
Frequently asked questions
The following frequently asked questions may help answer any queries you have about Elite Exped, what this expedition involves, and what is required. If your question isn’t answered here please check our dedicated FAQ support page, otherwise don’t hesitate to get in touch.
What skillset and fitness level are required?
We recommend Ben Nevis as a great option for beginners interested in gaining experience with mountain climbing and testing themselves at moderate altitude. Although a good level of fitness will certainly make the hike easier, you don’t need to be an elite athlete to complete it. We've seen people of all ages, fitness levels, and body types successfully reach the summit – and they all had an unforgettable experience!
While it’s possible to hike Ben Nevis with a basic level of fitness, a bit of preparation beforehand will enhance your enjoyment and comfort. Focus on aerobic fitness, leg strength, and mental endurance to get the most out of your hike. If this is your first mountain climb, be prepared for some discomfort as you adapt to the altitude and physical demands.
What accommodation is included?
What equipment is provided?
Will I get my own guide?
Food and dietary requirements:
Why choose
Elite Exped?
Unparalleled leadership
With Nimsdai Purja, Tejan, Mingma David Sherpa, and our team of elite IFMGA and senior guides, you are led by some of the most respected and accomplished mountaineers in the world. Their record-breaking achievements, unmatched expertise, and proven success at the highest level ensure you are always in the safest and most capable hands.
Safety through self-sufficiency
If it’s controllable, we control it. We leave no stone unturned to put client safety first — from fixing our own lines on 8,000m peaks to carrying backup oxygen and having the ability to run our own rescues if needed.
When all goes well, the mountain feels simple. But when the unexpected happens, we are the team you can trust to keep you safe.
Because We Care
At Elite Exped, we see our clients, Sherpas, and mountain communities as family. Every decision we make — from safety planning to personal guidance — is driven by care and responsibility. We go above and beyond not because it’s easy, but because your success, safety, and well-being truly matter to us. This same ethos extends beyond the mountains. By climbing with us, you help us invest in the communities that make these journeys possible, supporting welfare, training, and opportunities for the next generation.
Exclusive Experience
Whether you’re seeking the camaraderie of a group adventure, the intimacy of a private expedition, or the focus of a true 1:1 journey, we can cater to it all. With personal guidance and meticulous attention to detail, every climb with us is tailored to create an unforgettable experience.
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