THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO SCRAMBLING

Want to inject a dose of climbing into your walk without needing all the gear or expertise? Then try scrambling. The perfect mix between hillwalking and climbing, it’s great for adrenaline seekers wanting to up the ante and push boundaries. Here we take you through everything you need to know to get started.

Scrambling is best described as ascending steep terrain using your hands as well as your feet, often without technical climbing gear or a rope. It occupies the middle ground between walking and climbing: more demanding than hiking, but not as technical as full rock climbing. You’ll use all four limbs and encounter rocky ridges, slabs, chimneys, and gullies—sometimes with serious exposure.

• Steep ascents requiring handholds
• No fixed ropes for most routes (though ropes may be used for higher grades)
• Route-finding skills are essential
• Sure-footedness and a head for heights matter

There is a grading system (covered below) that helps you select routes suitable for your ability and appetite for adventure.

Scrambling in the UK is typically divided into three grades:

As a beginner, it’s sensible to start on Grade 1 routes, progressing as your confidence and technical ability grow.

Having the right kit means staying comfortable, safe, and prepared for whatever the mountain throws your way. Equipment varies depending on grade and exposure. 

Essentials for All Scramblers:

• Lightweight daypack
• Good-fitting boots with sticky soles for grip
• Weatherproof clothing (layers, waterproof jacket and trousers)
• Map and compass (plus guidebook or topo)
• First aid kit, headtorch, whistle
• Gloves for grip and hand protection
• Ample water and high-energy snacks

Additional Kit for Grade 2 and 3 Scrambles:

• Helmet—crucial for loose rock
• Harness and climbing rope (30–60m, depending on group and route)
• Belay plate and carabiners
• Nuts, hexes, and cams for building good anchors
• Slings for threading boulders or spikes
• Personal safety gear: nut key, prusik, spare carabiners

“Light is right,” but never skimp on safety. Pack for the conditions and be prepared for a change in the weather or an unexpected overnight stay.

Scrambling is full of its own vocabulary. Here’s a primer on the most-used words and phrases you’ll encounter. 

One of the most vital skills in scrambling is being able to read the terrain and choose the best route up or across a face. Unlike hiking trails, scrambling routes are rarely obvious or signposted—learning to spot sculpted holds, polished rock, or subtle lines of weakness is key to efficiency and safety.

• Check your route before starting, consult recent guidebooks or local experts.
• Look for polishes or chalky marks indicating popular moves, but watch out for false paths.
• Always have an escape plan—never commit to moves you can’t reverse.

Efficient scrambling is all about using your legs for propulsion and your arms for balance. Three core techniques:

• Smearing: Keep weight through the sole against the rock, stay upright and centre your mass.
• Edging: Use strong, positive foot placements on small holds; keep body tension stable.
• Wedging: Use cracks for extra security, especially when conditions are wet or holds are sparse.

Maintain your centre of gravity close to the rock and plan moves ahead. Always test holds before you trust them fully. Practicing proprioception—your sense of body position in space—can be improved through climbing, yoga, or specific scrambling practice.

• Use open-handed grips to minimise fatigue.
• Avoid relying on suspect rocks. Tap and test before loading your weight.
• Keep three points of contact at all times—two feet and one hand, or two hands and one foot.
• Don’t rush; stay composed in exposed places.

Scrambling is highly sensitive to changing conditions. Rain, ice, or wind can transform a moderate scramble into an epic struggle. Always check the latest forecast before heading out. Avoid routes after heavy rain or freeze–thaw cycles, which can destabilise rocks and increase objective hazards.

Being able to navigate featureless or complex terrain is vital. Carry a map, compass, and/or GPS device—and know how to use them. Many accidents happen when people get lost and inadvertently stray into more dangerous territory. 

Going with an experienced partner or a professional instructor dramatically increases both learning and safety. Communication is vital—always discuss plans, brief movements and be comfortable expressing doubts.

On higher-grade scrambles, deploying a rope is a sensible tactic for exposed or technical sections. Learn basic belaying, anchor building, and abseiling skills before tackling routes above your comfort level. Remember, moving together on a shortened rope (“alpine coils”) offers a compromise between speed and security but requires real experience.

Improving as a scrambler is a mix of practicing specific movements, building fitness, and increasing your comfort with exposure.

• Start with short, accessible scrambles and gradually increase difficulty.
• Seek out experienced scramblers or hire a guide for technical advice.
• Train balance and agility at home—climbing, yoga and even martial arts can help.
• Learn basic ropework and partner rescue skills if tackling higher grades.

Britain is blessed with an array of scrambling classics, from the legendary ridges of Eryri (Snowdonia) to the wild spires of Glen Coe. Here are some of the very best routes, each with its own character and challenge:

Each location offers a progression of grades, making it possible to build experience over time.

1. Choose a Suitable Route: Start on an accessible, Grade 1 route well within your comfort zone. Use guidebooks or reputable websites for up-to-date advice.
2. Pack the Essentials: Ensure your kit is appropriate for the weather and route difficulty. Don’t forget map, compass, water, food, and emergency kit.
3. Check Conditions: Monitor weather forecasts and be prepared to adjust plans.
4. Go With Others: A friend or group, especially with someone experienced, makes for a safer and richer experience.
5. Start Early: Allow plenty of daylight for your adventure.
6. Pace Yourself: Take breaks, hydrate, and stay mindful of fatigue (which can seriously impact decision-making on exposed terrain).
7. Respect the Environment: Stick to established paths where they exist and leave no trace.

For those looking to progress to more technical scrambles, developing core climbing skills is invaluable. Here are a few advanced techniques:

There are several belay techniques suitable for scrambling, depending on the terrain and anchor quality:

• Direct Belays: Fast, using natural features like spikes or blocks.
• Italian Hitch: Quick to rig with a sling; allows for rapid belaying when moving together.
• Indirect/Traditional Belay: Uses a belay plate and anchor for maximum security on challenging steps.

It’s vital to know when and how to use each method and to practice these skills before trusting them in the wild.

Moving together involves two or more scramblers roped-up and travelling at the same time, reducing exposure time on tricky sections. It’s a compromise between speed and safety—only recommended once all involved are competent in ropework and confident with exposure.