Before Your Course

Your EverydayClimbing mountain guide will be in touch one to two days before your course commences.  This pre-course contact serves to introduce your guide, confirm meeting details, and provide insight into the expected weather conditions. Our guides are readily available to address any queries you may have, ensuring you're well-prepared for your upcoming adventure.

On the Day

When approaching the UK's highest mountain from the North, the concealed North face is revealed, along with its five major mountaineering ridges leading down to the bowl of Coire Les. Our chosen route follows the central ridge, unmistakable from below as it rises from the miniature mountain of the Douglas Boulder to the summit of Ben Nevis. This is a challenging day, encompassing a significant approach, a sustained climb, and a long descent.

Our journey commences with a traditional hike through the woods, often alongside enthusiastic winter climbers aiming for the formidable North Face. After a brief stop at the CIC hut for a refuelling break, we skirt around the Douglas Boulder, utilising a steep gully or short wall to access the ridge crest.

From this point, the route becomes notably lengthy, sustained, and demanding, featuring some exposed and airy sections. Throughout the route, your guide will maintain constant roped protection and provide expert instruction. The style of movement varies, at times resembling an Alpine-style progression as a team, and at other times, taking on the focused precision of pure winter climbing. The Tower Gap, one of the route's most renowned features, is a memorable section. While it is short-lived, its preposterously exposed and your instructor will provide specific guidance on axe and foot placement.

Beyond the Tower Gap, further mountaineering challenges lead us within a stone's throw of the summit of Ben Nevis. After a few summit photographs, all we have to do is make the long descent off the highest mountain in the UK, having just climbed its most famous route.

Not quite what you're seeking? No problem! We specialise in organizing climbing, scrambling, or mountaineering guides for any route in the Scottish Highlands or islands. From the dramatic sea-stacks to the legendary Skye Cuillin, we've got your adventure covered. Feel free to drop us a line with your specific requirements, and we'll promptly respond to your inquiry.

Dates

This route is typically in condition throughout the winter season and can usually be scheduled on any day that suits your plans.

Feel free to reach out with your specific requirements or contact us using the form below, and we'll promptly respond to your inquiry.

Prices

Our prices are comprehensive and cover the following:

• Information and support prior to the course
• An AMI accredited, insured, and fully qualified guide
• Professional-grade climbing equipment for each participant
• Mountain safety gear
• Memorable photos of your adventure

One person - £300

Two people - £350 (£175 per person)

This is a demanding adventure on Ben Nevis, and a high level of fitness is necessary for the approach and return. However, for those with the energy and determination, few mountaineering experiences in the UK can compare.

Our team of instructors is intimately acquainted with Tower Ridge, having scaled it many times under various snow conditions. We possess an in-depth knowledge of every boot and axe placement, and we will be right by your side, providing support, safety, and motivation throughout the journey.

Tower Ridge represents an excellent progression for those with prior experience in graded mountaineering. Still, it's also attainable by fit, determined winter novices with a strong head for heights, regardless of their age or experience level. While there are some shortcuts and optional sections that can be omitted, we highly recommend including them for the full, immersive experience.

Required

• 35-45l backpack

• B2/B3 Winter mountain boots (Available to be rented locally)

• Gaiters

• Ski Goggles

• Walking poles

• Emergency shelter (Orange bag)

• Water bottle or hot drink flask

• Food and spare food (min. 1000cals.)

• Head torch + spare batteries 

• Thick socks

• Waterproof jacket and trousers 

• Thin fleece or light insulated jacket

• Thick fleece or mid insulated jacket

• Thick insulated jacket

• Warm hat

• Buff

• 2-3x Pairs of winter gloves

• Hiking trousers/salopettes 

• Synthetic/merino base layers

• Personal medication

• Waterproof stuff sacks

Optional

• OS maps of planned areas

• Waterproof map case

• Compass (silva type 4 recommended)

Provided

• Harness

• Climbing helmet

• 120cm sling and karabiner

• Belay device and karabiner

• C2/C3 crampons

• Pair of technical climbing axes

• Ice axe leashes

To guarantee your comfort and security throughout our activities, we strongly advise all participants to come prepared with the complete equipment listed. While our activities may proceed even if participants do not have the entire kit list, please be aware that EverydayClimbing and our instructors retain the right to modify the itinerary or conclude the activity early should the absence of essential equipment pose an elevated risk to the group, exceeding acceptable safety standards.

As part of our unwavering commitment to eliminating barriers to outdoor adventures, we offer a selection of equipment available for use by anyone, with no questions asked. Your safety and enjoyment are our top priorities. Just drop us a line to let us know what you require.