Hill & Mountain Skills

Walking in the hills is a great way to explore the outdoors, boost your confidence and get some exercise. We know that for people new to hill walking it can be an exciting and slightly daunting prospect which is why we've developed two courses designed to equip you with some basic knowledge and safety skills so that you can participate in more hill and mountain walking in your own time.

Which course is for me?

There are two courses as part of the scheme so you can choose the most appropriate starting point: Hill Skills and Mountain Skills. Both are open to anyone aged 10 or over.

Hill Skills

The Hill Skills course is your key to getting started in countryside walking. No previous hill walking experience is required to attend a Hill Skills course because the content of the course is aimed at beginners. If you do have some experience of hill walking but aren’t confident about planning walks, navigating and understanding the equipment required, then the Hill Skills course is an ideal way to learn.

Mountain Skills

The Mountain Skills course is an ideal choice for walkers interested in transferring their walking skills to steep, remote or more mountainous terrain. Ideally, participants will have some basic hill walking experience and have a reasonable level of fitness. Courses are run in the higher mountain areas of the UK and Ireland.



Participants get 15% off at Cotswold Outdoor and Snow+Rock, in store and online. Ask the course provider for the discount details.

How do I get started?

If you wish to attend either the Hill Skills or Mountain Skills course, find a course that works for you or contact a provider to organise a bespoke course. Course providers set the course costs which vary depending on what's included (kit hire, accommodation etc.).

Courses include the following:

• A copy of the Safety on Mountains book
• A navigational timing card
• A certificate of attendance for completing either or both courses
• Lifetime use of our digital logbook (DLOG) for recording all mountain related activities

Connect with your Mountain Training account after your course

Your course provider will create a record of your training course on our Candidate Management System (CMS) - if you would like to view this record and start using our digital logbook, you will need to connect with your Mountain Training account.