Aspiring Mountaineer - Scrambling Grades 2-3

Scrambling N Wales

This blog is for keen hikers and trekkers looking for the next challenge. You may have ticked some classic grade 1 scrambles and ridge walks and are now ready for the next step up. Which routes? There are a range of guidebooks available now for the scrambler based in Wales, Lake District and Scotland. When choosing a route be sure to do your homework. Have a good understanding of any possible crux moves on the route and if it is possible to detour round them or not. You should also make note of any escape routes and be confident you can keep yourself safe. It’s good to do your research and plan accordingly. Getting lost on a route is the worst case because you can end up on ground harder than your original route. Focus on land marks on the rock and points to aim for. This will help you when climbing to mentally tick as you progress. You can do this best on the walk into the crag when you have the overall view. Take your guidebook out and match the route with what you can see on the cliff face.

Do I need any additional equipment? Yes. Scrambling past grade 1 usually requires some climbing equipment such as a helmet, rope, harness and a small climbing rack. I take a mixture of nut protection (4-5) and 2-3 hexes or cams. I also take a belay plate, nut key and QuickDraws. Knowing how to use this equipment is fundamental before venturing out. Practice skills on grade 1 ground first or pay for some professional instruction. It will save lots of mistakes. Can I go solo? Lots of people do solo these climbs but they will be very comfortable on the ground having spent time climbing much harder. They will also choose routes familiar and ones with escape routes (ability to access easier ground if it gets hard). Learning to climb together in a pair is valuable if you tend to visit more scrambles at this grade. Practice skills like belaying, building anchors and placing protection while you climb.

When should I go? Summer and dry conditions is always best but you can also climb in the rain. If you are comfortable on the grade then climbing in the rain can be very fulfilling requiring an extra test of trust in your foot placements. Do I need climbing shoes? No. Climbing shoes help a lot on steep climbs but you can climb in boots or trainers depending on the route and weather. It is always recommend to have stiff mountaineering boots as they give better stability of small foot holds. Although if you feel uncomfortable then you may decide to a pair of climbing shoes just in case.