private guiding and instruction

Want to improve your navigation? Try our contour navigation approach to finding your way around.

,
I can see what is going on when I understand the contours of the landscape

I can see what is going on when I understand the contours of the landscape

Do you find it hard calculating routes from a-b using compass bearings, timings and pacings, and a storyboard based on map features like walls, boundaries, cairns or sheepfolds etc. This method of navigating has such a complex story board that it requires constant referring to the map and compass. Complex pacings and timings, not conducive to a comfortable walk in the hills and an interesting conversation with your companions.

Want to be able to navigate with your map and compass, for the most part, zipped inside your pocket. Navigating using contours can simplify your navigation on most days being able to identify complex train around can allow you to put simple story board together so you can navigation with your map in your pocket and actually speak to people in your group!
Have a look at what you can do http://mountaineeringjoe.co.uk/mountaineering/navigation-courses-snowdonia/

Fancy doing the Welsh 3000s?

, , ,

Tryfan looks magnificent from the Carneddau range

Tryfan looks magnificent from the Carneddau range

This is the ultimate Snowdonia extended ridge adventure. Traverse the three main mountain ranges, the Snowdon Massif, the Glyderau and the Carneddau. Summit all of Snowdonia’s peaks over 3000ft in 24 hours, from Snowdon to Foel Fras. Traditionally known as the 14 Peaks Challenge, with various route options, the total mileage covered from start to finish is in excess of 30 miles. A support team is provided on the day. The traverse of the Welsh 3000’s is a serious undertaking. Have a look at what you can do http://mountaineeringjoe.co.uk/mountaineering/mountain-challenges/welsh-3000s-14-peaks-challenge-in-24-hours/

Winter Climbing on Ben Nevis – Castle Ridge grade III

, , ,

Moving up to the crux

Moving up to the crux

Castle Ridge is a good winter route on Ben Nevis which takes one of the ridges on the north face. The good thing about it being a ridge is far less prone to avalanche then the gullies. In fact it was on the thin side making for some interesting moves. The crux felt more grade 4 then 3. By the time we finished on the top ridge the wind had got up which kept us roped up until the main top before Carn Dearg.

Mountain Navigation and Map Reading Courses available 2014

, , , ,
Planning is important

Planning is important

Good navigation and map reading skills are of vital importance particularly if you are caught out in bad weather. We all know being prepared makes you much safer. Mountaineering Joe runs courses and offers private instruction, to help you to improve your navigation and contour interpretation skills. What you learn will enhance your enjoyment of mountaineering, scrambling and hill walking. For more information click here http://mountaineeringjoe.co.uk/mountaineering/navigation-courses-snowdonia/

The Anglesey Coastal Path. We walked the stretch from Traeth – coch (Red wharf Bay) to Trwyn Penmon (Penmon Point).

, , , ,

Looking across the east side of Red Wharf Bay

Looking across the east side of Red Wharf Bay

It is just stunning scenery along this part of the coastline. With views out to the Snowdonia mountains with a lot of snow on at the moment are absolutely excellent. There is always a part of the coastline you can do, no matter the weather. If the prevailing winds are south westeries not this section on the north east is relatively sheltered from these winds. Even in heavy rain it can still be quite warm. There aren’t as many day as you would think where you can’t find a part of the coastline which is present to walk. http://mountaineeringjoe.co.uk/anglesey-coastal-path/

A great winter climbing route in the Cairngorm.

, ,

The second Ice pitch on Central Gully on Lurcher's Crag

The second Ice pitch on Central Gully on Lurcher’s Crag

A great winter climbing route in the Cairngorms. We got a one day weather window and got a route in the Cairngorm. Central Gully on Lurcher’s Crag. Three ice pitches with a alternative finish adding in a mixed pitch which made this a fantastic day out.

Winter Conditions Navigation Course in Scotland

, , ,
Taking a bearing and walking on it in winter conditions is hard!

Taking a bearing and walking on it in winter conditions is hard!

We had a good time navigating in a white out for 5 Hours. Typical Scottish winter conditions, high winds, spin drift and freezing temperatures. This really effects your bearing taking, with the compass freezing up, but it’s good that you can get off the mountain in any conditions! http://mountaineeringjoe.co.uk/mountaineering/navigation-courses-snowdonia/

Guided Snowdonia walking days out for groups around the Snowdonia national park.

, , , , , ,

Magnificent views across Snowdonia from the top of the Carneddau

Magnificent views across Snowdonia from the top of the Carneddau

Mountaineering Joe offers some great mountain days out on Snowdon and the surrounding mountains in Snowdonia, including the Carneddau and the Glyders. If the weather is too bad for high level mountain adventure then the Anglesey Coastal path offers so spectacular scenery at this time of the year. So if you have a group who want to venture into the mountains have a look at what mountaineering Joe has to offer for groups . http://mountaineeringjoe.co.uk/walking/

Enjoy the Anglesey Coastal path with a guided walk. Today we were on the Four Mile Bridge to Ravens Point section.

, , , ,

A great day out on the Anglesey Coastal path. Some beautiful views along the coastline with some dry and mild winter weather to enjoy this area of the island. We are providing all the guiding, and the transport so you don’t need to do a circular walk, so you get to enjoy much more of the coast. Have a look what guided day walks we have to offer …http://mountaineeringjoe.co.uk/anglesey-coastal-path/

Some stunning coves along this section of coastline

Some stunning coves along this section of coastline

Winter walking in Scotland is looking excellent for next year

, , , , , ,

The winter walking season is nearly upon us. I will be running some guided walks this winter in Scotland and Snowdonia so if you fancied getting into winter walking drop me a message and we will work something out. Have a look at what’s on offer with Mountaineering Joe. http://mountaineeringjoe.co.uk/mountaineering/winter-skills-walking-and-mountaineering/

The ridges starting to get their wintery feel

The ridges starting to get their wintery feel