Scrambling Skills

Scrambling is more challenging than hiking, as it requires navigating steep terrain that often necessitates the use of hands and precise foot placements. While it may appear straightforward since it typically doesn’t involve ropes, most backcountry rescues occur during scrambles that exceed a person's skill level, especially when individuals are unfamiliar with the terrain, neglect current conditions, or are ill-prepared.

Our Introduction to Scrambling program is designed to help you safely and confidently reach the breathtaking ridges and summits of the Canadian Rockies. The program covers how to select the right peak based on your abilities, plan your ascent, and enjoy your day safely. We follow a proven progression that introduces basic techniques, allowing you to continue developing your skills as you conquer more summits.

To make the most of your time, once you register for the course, we’ll provide materials on essential topics such as weather, geography, risk management, and route finding. This foundational knowledge will enable us to quickly delve into more advanced topics like terrain management, hazard assessment, and movement on steep or snow-and-ice-covered rock when we meet at the trailhead.

Have you already tried scrambling and want to take on more challenging routes? We can customize a program tailored to your specific needs and goals, incorporating the basics of rope use, natural protection, and belays to help you tackle more difficult scrambles.

Topics Covered:

• Proper Gear & use

• Guidebooks, maps and apps use

• Walking techniques

• Scrambling techniques

• Class 3 and Class 4 terrain

• Conditions assessment

• Trail finding

• Protecting yourself and others

• Pre-planning

• Risk management

• Environmental care

• Timing & Weather

Additional information

Please keep in mind that prior to to heading out for our Scrambling Program all participants are required to read and agree to waiver terms and conditions prior to booking completion. A copy of which can be found paramount-guides.com/waivers