Summer Outdoor Adult Activities 2017
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Welcome
Equipment
Welcome to our summer 2017 adults community programme. Whether you’re new to the outdoors or a returning client we think we’ve got some great courses lined up for you this summer. From gentle walks to steep climbs, brushing up on basic outdoor skills to being assessed on a Mountain Training Association verified leadership course - our outdoor instructors are dedicated, experienced and highly qualified in their sport and will provide an outdoor adventure that you won’t forget.
Our modern and comprehensive stores have a full range of equipment for all of our courses. The stores will be open on the morning of your course for you to borrow anything you need. All this is included in the course fee. Of course you are welcome to use any of your own equipment on our courses if agreed with the instructor on the day.
We have a long history of providing adventurous activities for the local population and beyond for several decades. Our adult community programmes have developed over this time to match the growing demand for outdoor pursuits.
Contents Activity
Page
Welcome & Introduction
2-5
Walking
6-7
High Tops
8-13
Mountain Navigation
14
Mountain Scrambling
15
Rock Climbing / Mountaineering 16-17
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Training & Qualifications
18-20
Trips
23
Rock & Water
26
Windsports
27
Paddlesports
28
Annual Planner
30-31
Equipment list available from:
www.falkirkcommunitytrust.org/list
Transport and Venues All our courses start and finish from our main office at Victoria buildings (address above) and transport to and from there is included in the course fee. We have a large car park to leave vehicles and we are a short walk from Falkirk train (Grahamston) and bus stations. Start times are listed with the course dates and finish times will vary. Please ensure you plan on being out with us all day - if conditions are good we will make the most of them.
All photographs by Craig McLaren
Falkirk Outdoors
Summer Outdoor Adult Activities Information & Bookings Our office hours are; Tuesday to Thursday 09:00 – 17:00 | Friday 09:00 – 13:00 Outdoor Activities Base Victoria Building Annexe Queen Street Falkirk FK2 7AF Tel: 01324 506846 Email: outdooractivities@falkirkcommunitytrust.org Web: www.falkirkcommunitytrust.org/outdoors For information and to book a course please contact the Outdoor team using the above details. Before you join us on a course we will need a medical consent form completed and returned to us via post or email (you can download a medical consent form from our webpage, link below). Payment can be made by card (in person or over the phone), cash or cheque (payable to Falkirk Community Trust) Full payment must be made before a course can be booked. Details of prices can be found alongside our list of course dates. Please call us if you require information about any of our courses.
All bookings are to be made through the Outdoor Base By Phone (Card payments) Please call : 01324 506846 Our office hours are; Tuesday to Thursday 09:00 – 17:00 Friday 09:00 – 13:00
Please Note:
* Please note we still need a signed copy of our medical form before the start of the activity
• You will only hear further from us if your course has to be altered or cancelled.
By Post – (Cheque) Please send payment to: Outdoor Activities Base Victoria Building Annexe Queen Street Falkirk FK2 7AF * Please enclose details of the course you wish to book In Person Please call in and see us at Victoria Buildings
• We only take bookings on receipt of payment, we cannot accept provisional bookings.
• We require an original medical form at the centre before the activity takes place. Please ensure this is either sent in to Victoria Buildings prior to the activity date or brought with you on the morning of the course. • In the event you have to cancel a course within the cancellation period you are strongly advised to take out insurance to recover the cost of the course fees.
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Seasonal Highlights Wild camping trip to the heart of the Cairngorms – for walkers or climbers, two nights under the stars
A return to Skye
– A three day scrambling trip based in Glen Brittle hostel, focussing on routes in the Black Cuillin
Wilderness Munro expedition
– visiting Fisherfield to tick the five Munros in the area over a big day with a day either side to get there and back.
Our annual visit to the North West Highlands
– Climbing or hill walking trip in one of Scotland’s prime outdoor pursuits areas
Autumn hill walking trip based in Ratagan SYHA
- 9 Munros including the Brothers Ridge
Rock climbing matrix
– Making it simpler for folk to get on the climbing course they want and to share the experience with others who climb at their level
New Canyoning Trip
- Join us exploring some of the best canyons North West Highlands
Paddlesports Kayak & Canoe
- By popular demand we’ve added canoe and kayak days for everyone from beginners to experienced paddlers.
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Walking Senior Rambles High Tops Mountain Navigation Mountain Scrambles
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Senior Rambles All Senior Rambles cost ÂŁ9.00 Our long established Stravaiger and Tryst rambles take the over 50s on walks of up to 13km in duration on mostly easy paths with no significant height gain. The Stravaiger rambles leave from Victoria Buildings car park in Falkirk at 0915 every second Tuesday with the Tryst rambles departing from Stenhousemuir gym car park in Hallam Road at 09:30 on the alternate Tuesdays.
Stravaiger Ramble dates 13/06/17
27/06/17
Summer Break
22/08/17
05/09/17
19/09/17
03/10/17
17/10/17
31/10/17
14/11/17
28/11/17
Tryst Ramble dates 06/06/17
20/06/17
Summer Break
29/08/17
12/09/17
26/09/17
24/10/17
07/11/17
21/11/17 7
High Tops All High Tops days begin at 0700 and cost £30.00 Our days out on the mountains are justly renowned for getting to the summits by interesting means whatever the weather. On a High Tops day you will tick either a Munro or one of our finer Corbetts, so you will need to have previous walking experience. On the harder to reach hills we can take bikes if appropriate. We’re happy to take novices out but if you’re unsure how you’ll do on the day please call our office before booking and chat to an instructor.
7/5/17 Meall Ghaordaidh & Beinn nan Oighreag 13.7km + 1210 metres of ascent From Glen Lochay Meall Ghaordaidh presents itself as a simple grassy lump but adding the fine Corbett Beinn nan Oighreag makes the outing interesting. From the Munro summit the character of the hills changes as the ridge narrows before dropping to the Lairig Luiadhe. Directly in front of this the route climbs to reach the south ridge of our Corbett. We go out and back along this to tick it then drop back down to Glen Lochay by following the Allt Dhuin Croisg past some shielings. 8
11/5/17 Meall Buidhe & Cam Chreag 14.1km + 790 metres of ascent The dam at Loch na Daimh is our starting point for this round of a Munro and Corbett. The relatively high start means there’s not a great deal of ascent on this outing. The section between Meall Buidhe and Cam Chreag is fairly pleasant but the Corbett does seem to be initially a long way away. After ticking our second hill we descend to Creagan nan Gobhar then heading down to the hydro track which leads back to the dam.
28/5/17
8/6/17
Ben Oss & Ben Lui - Bike access
Lochnagar
14km + 300 metres of ascent (bike), 8.8km + 1100 metres of ascent (walk)
23km + 1080 metres of ascent
In order to avoid Ben Oss becoming our nemesis (we’ve tried and failed the last couple of planned walks) we’ve come up with doing it alongside Ben Lui, and using bikes to get up the long track past Cononish. The route goes up Ben Lui first by the usual Munro route from this side then drops to the bealach which is the source of the River Tay, heads up the southern flank of Ben Oss then dropping off next to Coire Cruinn after ticking its summit. Should be a nice day out.
The summit of Lochnagar is actually Cac Carn Beag, when combining it with Carn a’ Choire Bhoideach and Carn an t-Sagart Mor it makes a nice, if long, outing from Invercauld. The walk begins at the car park at Keiloch, heads south through Ballochbuie Forest then on up the Feindallacher Burn to tick the three Munros in an anticlockwise direction. If it’s a nice day we might even detour to The Stuic for the excellent views over the Dee towards the Eastern Cairngorms. This will be a long but straightforward day on the hill. 9
High Tops
18/6/17 Corriehully Horseshoe - Bike access 8.7km + 180 metres of ascent (bike), 13.7km + 1360 metres of ascent (walk) This is a fine outing along the Road to the Isles to tick a couple of Munros situated in the Rough Bounds area. Bikes take the strain out of the plod up Glen Finnan to the bothy. There they are left as the horseshoe route commences. Going clockwise gives better initial views over the wonderful terrain opening out as we get higher. It’s a fair way up to Sgurr nan Coireachan, our first summit. A beautiful narrow ridge, a common feature in these parts, leads west for a bit and then it’s a short detour up to Sgurr Thuilm. Another sweeping ridge then completes the horseshoe. 10
29/6/17 Glas Bheinn Mhor & Ben Starav 15.8km + 1380 metres of ascent These two Munros provide a good workout and even better views. We’re doing Glas Bheinn Mhor first this time as it’s eluded us the last couple of visits. The woods of Coileitir open out to become fine granny pines as we head up the Allt Meuran to the col then take the ridge round to the summit of our first Munro. From here the ridge stretches out to the west where it terminates on the summit of mighty Ben Starav. Its long north ridge provides a great way back down to Glen Etive with fantastic views up to Glen Coe.
31/8/17 Bynack More – Bike access 11.9km + 200 metres of ascent (bike), 11.1km + 660 metres of ascent It’s been a while since we visited Bynack More. It’s a nice walk but even nicer if the section from Glenmore to the site of Bynack Stable is done on bikes. The riding is on easy tracks through the forest then past Lochain Uaine where the land opens up out of Ryvoan Pass. The walking section is mainly done on the Lairig an Laoigh path which passes nearby our hill, taking the north ridge of our Munro to the summit and back.
10/9/17 Creag Mhor & Beinn Heasgarnich 24.6km + 1520 metres of ascent A fine long outing in the Mamlorn hills taking in shapely Creag Mhor then lumpy Heasgarnich, both Munros, will stretch the legs and the peat hags stretch your patience. This is a tough day out. Our walk has been extended recently by wheeled access being barred further down Glen Lochay. We’ll do the round clockwise to get the furthest away hill done first. The south east ridge up to Creag Mhor is a fine feature but once this hill is completed the true nature of the area is revealed. A world of bog and peat hag surrounds Heasgarnich’s summit and there’s no other way but to endure it until the road coming over from Glen Lyon is reached.
28/9/17 Bidean Nam Bian & Stob Coire Sgreamhaich 11.2km + 1220 metres of ascent The Chieftain of the Peaks is a translation for Bidean. It’s Argyll’s highest hill and is a bit of a stunner, having a special place in most hillgoers hearts. With the promotion of Stob Coire Sgreamhaich by the SMC to Munro status it’s been common to do them both together. There are many interesting, long days to be had ticking these two. Our route is fairly simple and involves no real scrambling. We go up the Lost Valley and on to the ridge by the col to the south of Stob Coire nan Lochain, tick Bidean followed by an out and back route from the top of the Lost Valley Headwall to get Sgreamhaich. We’ll descend straight down the Lost Valley.
8/10/17 Beinn Eibhinn, Aonach Beag & Geal-charn - Bike access 12km + 175m ascent (bike), 16.2km + 1100m ascent (hill) The high tops north west of Ben Alder contain three Munros linked by an undulating ridge which doesn’t dip below the 970 meter contour. Approach will be on bikes from Glen Spean in the north. The bikes are good until Lubvan where we’ll need to walk. Beinn Eibhinn’s first up, and it’s quite a hike over the moor to get to it. Once up, the rolling terrain makes for a nice stroll over to the other two Munros. This is very remote country for the Central Highlands. It’s quite a long day out. 11
High Tops 12/10/17 Ben Cruachan & Stob Diamh 13.8km + 1390 metres of ascent Cruachan is a big hill. It’s also known as the hollow mountain due to it being Scotland’s first hydro ‘battery’ and justly famous for it. We’ll do the usual Munroists round of taking in Stob Diamh as well going clockwise from the dam. It’s a big day out with a wee rock step or two to negotiate. The views from these two fine hills is impresive.
26/10/17
Beinn Sgulaird
Sgurr Innse & Cruach Innse
11.8km + 1240 metres of ascent
13.1km + 890 metres of ascent
It’s a bit of a drive to get to Glen Creran an Appin but it’s the best start to our Munro, Beinn Sgulaird. The route goes out and back up from Drumavuic and up to south ridge. There are a few minor bumps to go over to tick our summit which accounts for the amount of ascent.
These two rugged Corbetts lie to the east of the Lairig Leachach by the Grey Corries. Luckily it’s permitted to take vehicles a long way up the track making the summits easily achievable in a day from the Central Belt. We ascend Cruach Innse first, which is the rounder of the two hills. Sgurr Innse has a steep wee line to follow to get through the crags. This is reversed back to the col. From the col it’s an easy walk back to the Lairig Leacach track which leads to the bus.
5/11/17 Buachaille Etive Beag 8.1km + 910 metres of ascent On this outing we’ll tick the easy to reach Munros on the wee Buachaille, Stob Coire Raineach and Stob Dubh. The relatively high start and straightforward terrain means these two won’t take long to reach. We begin the walk at the Lairig Eilde car park in Glen Coe. 12
9/11/17
23/11/17 Gairbeinn & Meall na h-Aisre 17.5km + 840 metres of ascent There are a few good hills worth doing from the Corryairak Pass. We will tick two of the Corbetts on this outing. Gairbeinn is usually done with Corryairak Hill, but that doesn’t reveal the true character of this area so we thought we’d link these two instead. From the bothy at the end of the public road we take the old road for a bit before heading up on to Gairbeinn. The continuation of the ridge after the summit provides a nice way into the interior of the plateau and on to our second hill. We’ll descend to the bus through a break in the forestry.
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Mountain Navigation
14/06/17
27/08/17
22/10/17
26/11/17
Mountain Navigation Begins at 08:00 and cost £35.00 Good navigation in the mountains is the key skill to learn and practise in order to enhance one’s experience on the hill. This course is for hill walkers who understand the basics of map work and would like to take their understanding of navigation to the next level. This will be a full day on the hill recapping on the basics like taking bearings and measuring timings and distances, moving on to navigation strategies and relocation techniques.
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Mountain Scrambles All Scrambles start at 0700 and costs £40 From the Lochaber and Glencoe classics to the wilds of Ardgour or Arrochar, all the way over to the northern Cairngorms, our mountain scramble days are for folk who enjoy moving fast over technical terrain in spectacular settings. The nature of these scrambles means the participant should have previous experience of steep ground.
14/05/17 Pinnacle Ridge (Grade 2/3) – ARDGOUR The rough mountain of Garbh Bheinn makes a fine silhouette when viewed from the Leven Bridge or Glencoe. Come and experience what it feels like to stand on this Corbett’s summit after scrambling up its famous Pinnacle Ridge – a fine exposed route through some impressive scenery.
15/06/17 Cobbler South Ridge (Grade 3) – ARROCHAR Wee Ben Arthur, or the Cobbler, is a gem of a hill for the scrambler. The traverse of the South and Central peaks is arguably the finest on the mountain. The rock is sound yet polished by the generations of heavy booted adventurers. The South Peak is climbed first before abseiling off and onto the Central Peak, which is the summit of the mountain. Threading the needle is a mountaineering rite of passage.
30/08/17 Aonach Eagach (Grade 2/3) – GLENCOE Our summer outing to this most iconic of mainland ridges takes place midweek to avoid the crowds. Billed by some as the hardest scramble on the mainland but the moves are pretty straightforward if you are on a tight rope. Taking in two Munros, we start at the higher eastern end and then scramble towards the western seaboard.
23/09/17 Curved Ridge (Grade 2/3) – GLENCOE One of the most popular scrambles in the Scottish Highlands, Curved Ridge has it all: great situations, lovely exposure on sound rock; all whilst following in the hand holds of many a great mountaineer. We’ll probably go for a wander up Crowberry Tower at the end if there’s any views to be had.
11/10/17 Sron na Lairig (Grade 2) – GLENCOE The name of this route translates as the nose of the pass. It’s a steep pyramid of rock and turf which has a beautiful arête section high up. It’s a bit of a walk from the road but worth it for the views of the neighbouring peaks. If we take in Beinn Fhada on the return it makes for a great outing. 15
Rock Climbing For the 2017 season we have restructured our Rock Climbing courses so everyone gets a course that suits their needs from total beginners to the seasoned climber. If you are in any doubt please call the office and speak to one of our instructors.
Introduction to Rock Climbing Supervised/Instructed day - ratio 1:6
7/06/17
29/08/17
22/09/17
22/06/17
Introduction to Rock Climbing
Supervised/Instructed day - ratio 1:6
More Climbs
Start at 08:00. Costs ÂŁ30.00
Supervised/Instructed day - ratio 1:6
This is a course for beginners who want to experience climbing outdoors on real rock. The course will take place at one of our local single pitch crags and cover all the basics such as tying in, belaying and movement on rock. The course is suitable for complete novices or folk who have recently begun climbing indoors.
Classic climbs Guided Day - ratio 1:2
Hard Climbs Guided Day - ratio 1:2
Learn to Lead Climb Instructed Day - ratio 1:2
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3/05/17
16/06/17
6/09/17
More Climbs
Supervised/Instructed day - ratio 1:6 Starts at 08:00. Costs ÂŁ30.00 This is a course for folk who have begun to climb outdoors and would like to get some experience of seconding single pitch rock routes. The day will be split between seconding and top roping so that vertical mileage can be maximised. This is the ideal progression course for anyone to gain the relevant experience to participate on our Classic or Hard climbing days in the mountains.
13/05/17
17/06/17
7/09/17
24/09/17
26/08/17
Classic Climbs (Mod – Hard Severe)
Guided Day - ratio 1:2
Starts at 07:00. Costs £50.00 Our Classic Climbs, rock climbing days, involve clients being guided up a classic (occasionally esoteric) route. We don’t plan to climb above the grade of hard severe; it’s all about a great climb in an amazing place. Venues are not specified because we will go where the weather is best. Example routes could include; Ardverikie Wall, Agag’s Groove, Savage Slit and Crypt Route. If the weather isn’t suitable to get into the mountains then we will head to a crag venue. Because of the nature of multi-pitch climbing we require participants to have previous rock climbing experience.
18/06/17
28/06/17
27/08/17
8/09/17
Hard climbs (VS – E1)
Guided Day - ratio 1:2
Starts at 07:00. Costs £50.00 Our Hard Climb days, like our Classic days are guided, however the climbing is that bit harder. Example routes could include; Spartan Slab, Bludger’s Revelation, King Bee and The Clean Sweep. If the weather isn’t suitable to get into the mountains then we will head to a crag venue. Because of the nature of multi-pitch climbing we require participants to have previous rock climbing experience
22/06/17 Learn to Lead Climb
Instructed day - ratio 1:2 Starts at 08:00. Costs £50.00 Following on from our beginners rock climbing course, these days are aimed at folk who have seconded climbs and would like to progress to leading a climb. Skills covered include selecting suitable equipment, placing protection and bringing up a second. 17
The Mountain Training course aims to equip participants with the basic knowledge and essential safety skills required to start pursuing their own participation in mountain walking as a leisure time activity. Falkirk Community Trust is an approved provider of these awards.
Mountain Training Scotland Courses
Mountain Skills
Cost £95 per two day course – Courses of begin at 0700 Mountain Training offers programmes training and assessment for
walkers interested in leading groups as well as skills awards that teach The Mountain Skills course is an ideal choice for walkers interested in applying their individuals how to look after themselves in the hills and mountains. The countryside walking skills to the mountain environment. Ideally, participants would have done UK and Ireland are home to a great many stunning locations and our some basic hill walking and have a reasonable level of fitness. Skills in map and compass, work is dedicated to helping more people get out there and enjoy them. mountain weather forecasting, movement through steep ground, planning and preparation, emergency procedures, seasonal effectsthese and the mountain environment Falkirk Community Trust deliver courses on behalf of the all form the syllabus of this Mountain course. The courseScheme. is run in the main high mountain areas of the UK and Ireland. Our Training courses will be based in the Scottish mountains.
Mountain Skills
26 & 27 June 17
14 & 15 October 17
Qualifications - Lowland Leader Award The Lowland Leader Award is ideal for teachers, community workers; those involved with the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme – in fact anyone who wants to lead summer walking groups in lowland countryside and woodland. As with all Mountain Training Schemes there is no altitude limit to the remit of the award, “lowland” refers to the sort of landscape you will be operating in, i.e. fields and woodlands where there are clear paths on the map and on the ground. The training course looks at route-finding skills, an understanding of hazards and risk management, leadership techniques and an appreciation of equipment needs and the impact of the weather. There is an optional Expedition Skills module available for candidates who wish to move on to leading camping trips and supervising groups on backpacking expeditions. Like other National Governing Body Awards the pathway to certification involves getting some personal experience, attending a training course, consolidating your learning, completing an assessment, and then continuing to develop these skills as a Lowland Leader. The length of time it takes to become a Lowland Leader depends on how much experience you already have. We recommend at least three months between training and assessment, and if it takes you a few years to feel ready, that’s fine too. The Lowland Leader Award can be used anywhere in the UK when you are in appropriate terrain. More information about the award please visit the Mountain Training website
LLA Training 2017 dates
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Hill and Mountain Skills Hill Skills
Mountain Skills
Cost £95 per two day course – Courses begin at 07:00
Cost £95 per two day course – Courses begin at 07:00
The Hill Skills course is your key to getting started in countryside and moorland walking. There is no experience of hill walking 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.
The Mountain Skills course is an ideal choice for walkers interested in applying their countryside walking skills to the mountain environment. Ideally, participants would have done some basic hill walking and have a reasonable level of fitness. Skills in map and compass, mountain weather forecasting, movement through steep ground, planning and preparation, emergency procedures, seasonal effects and the mountain environment all form the syllabus of this course. The course is run in the main high mountain areas of the UK and Ireland.
20/05/17 - 21/05/17
Our courses will be based in the Scottish mountains. 26/06/17 - 27/06/17 14/09/17 - 15/09/17
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Lowland leader Award The Lowland Leader Award is ideal for teachers, community workers; those involved with the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme – in fact anyone who wants to lead summer walking groups in lowland countryside and woodland. As with all Mountain Training Schemes there is no altitude limit to the remit of the award, “lowland” refers to the sort of landscape you will be operating in, i.e. fields and woodlands where there are clear paths on the map and on the ground. The training course looks at route-finding skills, an understanding of hazards and risk management, leadership techniques and an appreciation of equipment needs and the impact of the weather. There is an optional Expedition Skills module available for candidates who wish to move on to leading camping trips and supervising groups on
backpacking expeditions. Like other National Governing Body Awards the pathway to certification involves getting some personal experience, attending a training course, consolidating your learning, completing an assessment, and then continuing to develop these skills as a Lowland Leader. The length of time it takes to become a Lowland Leader depends on how much experience you already have. We recommend at least three months between training and assessment, and if it takes you a few years to feel ready, that’s fine too. The Lowland Leader Award can be used anywhere in the UK when you are in appropriate terrain. More information about the award please visit the Mountain Training website.
Lowland leader award training dates Training Cost - £125 Candidates must register direct with Mountain Training prior to training. Fee - £44. Course 2
Course 3
Course 4
Fri 2 June | 18:00 - 21:00
Fri 1 Sept | 18:00 - 21:00
Fri 13 Oct | 18:00 - 21:00
Sat 3 June | 09:00 - 18:30
Sat 2 Sept | 09:00 - 18:30
Sat 14 Oct | 09:00 - 18:30
Sun 4 June | 09:00 - 17:00
Sun 4 Sept | 09:00 - 17:00
Sun 15 Oct | 09:00 - 17:00
LLA Assessment dates Lowland Leader Award – Assessment £135 Assessment 2
Assessment 3
Saturday 16 Sept | 18:00 - 18:00
Saturday 28 Oct | 09:00 - 18:00
Sunday 17 Sept | 09:00 - 18:00
Sunday 29 Oct | 09:00 - 18:00
Mountain Training Expedition Skills Module Expedition Skills Module - £125 Course 2 Saturday 30 Sept - Sunday 1 Oct Day 1 Saturday 30 Sept - 09:00 - Overnight Day 2 Finish 12:00 20
Hill & Moorland Leader Award
The Hill and Moorland Leader award is designed for people who want to lead groups in the hill and moorland areas of the UK and Ireland. This award is a wonderful opportunity to learn the leadership skills required to feel confident about taking people out walking. As you may have guessed from the descriptive title of this award, it focuses on non-mountainous terrain. In a previous life this award was called the Walking Group Leader, and we think the new name better describes the award and makes more sense. This way, everyone knows where they (can) stand. The ‘overnight experience’ element of the WGL has been removed and we’ve created a separate Expedition Skills Module which can be ‘bolted on’ to the Hill and Moorland Leader (or indeed the Lowland Leader) if you want to increase the scope of your award to include multi-day expeditions. More information about the award please visit the Mountain Training website.
Candidates must register direct with Mountain Training prior to training Fee - £44.
H&MLA Training Date Hill & Moorland Leader Award Training £195 Training 1 Friday 21 Oct | 09:00 - 18:00 Saturday 22 Oct | 09:00 -l- 21:30 Sunday 23 Oct | 09:00 until 18:00
H&MLA Assessment Date Hill & Moorland Leader Award – Assessment £225 Assessment 1 Friday 21 Nov | 09:00 - 18:00 Saturday 22 Nov | 09:00 - 21:30 Sunday 23 Nov | 09:00 - 18:00 21
uke of Edinburgh Award D Expedition Section Outdoor Activities is proud to announce that we are now an Approved Activity Provider for the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. This means we can train and assess D of E students for the Expedition section of the award. Please contact our office for details.
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Trips Not all venues are accessible in a single day, so we base ourselves in the local area to maximise our time out on the mountains. The accommodation can range from tents, to bothies, to hostels, to bivvying out high on the hill.
17/05/17 - 19/05/17
Cairngorm Climbing or Walking Camping Trip Departs Falkirk 17:00 Costs £140 Climbers or £95 Walkers
Climbers Camping in the high Cairngorms will allow us to be flexible about which climbing crags we visit on this trip. If the weather’s good we’ll camp with the walkers at Feith Buidhe which means we can get to Hell’s Lum, Shelterstone, Stag Rocks, Coire Etchachan or even the Northern Corries to climb. If the forecast is poor we’ll have other options, and probably access them from Glenmore. Previous summer rock climbing experience is desirable.
Walkers The Cairngorm plateau is arguably best experienced over a few days. On this trip we’ll cover a lot of ground and camp high for a couple of nights at the same spot which means we can take light bags for the big second day. The plan is to do five of the Munros in the area; all the ones on the central plateau.
Day One
5km + 530 metres of ascent. After arriving at Coire Cas we’ll head to the Feith Buidhe and set up our first camp. We might go up by the Goat Track.
Day Two
Ben Macdui, Carn a’ Mhaim & Derry Cairngorm - 17.9km + 1210 metres of ascent. Doing these three hills in a loop will take us to some pretty remote spots. Most of it is pathless so you’ll be thankful we’re only taking light rucksacks on this day.
Day Three
Beinn Mheadoin & Cairn Gorm - 12.4km + 840 metres of ascent. This route makes a nice journey round some classic Cairngorm terrain. We’ll tick the two Munros carrying all our gear so the distance and height gain reflect this. 23
Trips
30/06/17 - 02/07/17
Fisherfield High Tops Camping Trip Departs Falkirk 07:00 Cost £140 Fisherfield is an amazing area for hill walkers. Also known as The Great Wilderness it fires the imagination with a promise of big, remote days out, far from a road, in some of Scotland’s wildest country. On this trip we plan to tick all five Munros in the circuit. If we’re going well, and it’s a huge if, we might finish by going over Beinn a’Chlaidheimh, which is now a Corbett but was originally included in the round when it was a Munro. This will be a very long, strenuous, and memorable day on the hill. If the forecast is for lots of rain we’ll have an alternative plan to do some of the hills from the south without the river crossings. We’ll still camp. 05/06/17 - 08/06/17
Isle of Skye Scrambling Trip
Drive to Coire Halle. Walk to Sheneval. Camp 7.3km + 380 metres of ascent.
Departs Falkirk 06:00 and costs £230 for scramblers
Day Two
Our annual summer trip to Skye is based at Glenbrittle Hostel, right by the Black Cuillin, to make the most of the quick access on to the hill. The range lends itself to scrambling, offering some of the best days out in the land. We’ll no doubt visit some Munro summits along the way too. Previous scrambling experience is desirable as well as a good level of hill fitness. 24
Day One
Ruadh Stac Mor , A’ Mhaighdean, Beinn Tarsuinn, Mullach Coire Mhic Fhearchair, Ruadh Stac Mor & Sgurr Ban - 27.8km with 1990 metres of ascent. We’ll be on the go from very early and won’t get back to the tents until very late. Add to this the river crossings and you start to get the idea that this is an epic undertaking: And that’s without the Corbett!
Day Three
Walk to Coire Halle – Drive home.
21/08/17 - 23/08/17
Photo Credit: Craig McLaren 14/09/17 - 17/09/17
North West Highlands Climbing or High Tops Trip
Glen Shiel High Tops Trip
Departs Falkirk at 0630 and costs £220 for climbers & £140 for walkers
On this hostel based trip well aim to tick nine Munros on the north of the A82 road by Glen Shiel and Loch Cluanie over three days. We’ll be based at Ratagan hostel for three nights.
Our return trip to the ever popular North West Highlands will again focus on either climbing some of the classic routes in the area, or for hill walkers, a chance to tick some of the best mountains in the area. We’ll be based once again in the excellent Inchnadamph Lodge hostel.
Day 1
Climbers - We’ll probably head for the Old Man of Stoer (HVS) if the weather’s right; or we can scramble up the South Ridge of Conival (Grade 2) if we need another option.
Walkers
Conival & Ben More Assynt 16.7km + 1460 metres ascent. After dropping off our extra kit at the hostel we’ll go and tick both these lovely Munros in the afternoon. We have to go over Conival twice but the views make it worth it.
Day 2
Climbers - The Fiddler’s Nose (HVS). This is the classic multi-pitch climb in the area. We’ll finish on the summit of Sgurr an Fhidhleir.
Walkers
Cul Mor & Cul Beag Traverse - 13.3km + 1350 metres of ascent. The second day of our trip is where we get to tackle a bigger hill day. A traverse of these two Corbetts as written in the SMC guidebook is a great way to explore the characteristics of these two iconic hills.
Day 3
Climbers - We’ve got options of either scrambling or climbing on Stac Pollaidh or cragging at Ardmair or Reiff. Walkers – Ben More Coigach & Sgurr an Fhidhleir - 10.7km + 920 metres of ascent. Our last walking outing heads down past Achiltibuie, opposite the Summer Isles to ascend these two fine Grahams. The views from these hills are spectacular in any direction, but the finest is arguably the one over the Summer Isles. Climbers - Previous rock climbing experience is essential.
Departs Falkirk 1800 Cost £180
Day one
Travel to Ratagan SYHA. All the usual hostel facilities. No shop or pub nearby.
Day Two
Saileag, Sgurr a Bhealach Dheirg, Aonach Meadhoin & Ciste Dubh – 15.7km + 1650 metres of ascent. These hills are known as The Brothers of Kintail and they make a nice traversing line if you have transport at both ends. We’ll take a bike so the leader can get the van at the end whilst the others wait in the pub. If we’re going well we’ll detour to tick Ciste Dubh.
DayThree
Sail Chaorainn, Sgurr nan Conbhairean & Carn Ghluasaid – 16.8km + 1310 metres of ascent. This is a slightly easier day ticking the three Munros to the north of Loch Cluanie.
Day Four
A’ Chralaig & Mullach Fraoch-Choire – 13.1km + 1150 metres of ascent. This is the shortest of the three day outings but it’s still not a walk in the park. Once we’ve visited the two Munros we’ll drive home.
16/10/17 - 18/10/17
North West Highlands Canyoning Adventure Trip Departs Falkirk at 0630 and costs £170 This is a new venture for us. Or maybe that should be ADventure. We plan to head to the North West and descend some of the technical canyons in the area. Think big jumps and slides, abseils and scrambles, all in a stunning setting. We’ll be staying in a hostel for two nights so there will be time to dry off. Participants should have previous canyoning experience or have a good water confidence level. 25
Rock & Water
15/09/17
1/10/17
Canyoning Start at 0900 and cost ÂŁ35.00 From the dryer technical gorges, to the full on big canyon descents, we will get you up or down safely. All our canyon days are staffed by appropriately trained instructors who have a passion for exploring the hidden away gorge systems. It is essential for participants to have a good level of water confidence for this activity. Dollar Glen is our local venue featuring a narrow gorge system with long waterfall drops. The Falls of Bruar is a well-established canyoning venue, which offers a bit of everything, big jumps, technical traverses and drops. These are just two of the venues we use. We will always try to take you somewhere new.
25/06/17
18/09/17
2/10/17 Coasteering Starts at 0900 and cost 35.00 The rapidly growing sport of Coasteering is justly popular around the sea cliffs of Scotland and beyond. If you enjoy exploring our inshore waters we offer enough thrills like scrambling, swimming and jumping in to keep the enthusiast happy. 26
Wind Sports
30/08/17
25/10/17
Blokarting Starts at 08:00 and cost £30.00 Blokarting or land yachting is becoming a popular windsport activity. It’s a bit like sailing dinghies but with wheels instead of a keel. The same principles of tacking, jibing and running with the wind are used to get the craft to where you want to go. It’s also great fun. We use St Andrews West Beach as our preferred venue as it is designated for wind-powered outdoor activities. 27
Paddlesports Paddlesports 04/09/17
23/09/17
23/10/17
18/11/17
Canoe / Kayak Introduction Starts at 09:00 and cost £30.00 Canoeing and kayaking are sports which are popular with for a whole variety of reasons. Whether you want to descend a big river down challenging rapids or explore our amazing inshore waters or lochs our introduction course will set you on the path. The course will be run on one of our amazing lochs and is suitable for absolute beginners or anyone wishing to refresh their paddling skills.
Paddlesports River Trips Moving on from our intro paddlesport days these courses will be run on one of our local rivers. The River Teith or River Tay offer great days out with enough excitement on the rapids for beginners or intermediate paddlers although we could include other rivers if folk have the skills. The day will consist of coaching participants in the skills required to get the most out of their day on the river. Participants should have previous canoeing or kayaking experience.
30/10/17
19/11/17
Kayak River Trip Starts at 09:00 and cost £35.00
30/10/17
19/11/17
Canoe River Trip Starts at 09:00 and cost £35.00 28
2017 Summer Outdoor Programme at a glance Walking
High Tops
Mountain Navigation
Rock Climbing / Mountaineering Rock & Water
Windsports
MAY 1
Mountain Scrambling
Training & Qualifications
Trips
Paddlesports
JUNE 1
AUGUST 1
2 Senior Rambles - Stravaigers
2 Lowland Leader – Training
2
3 Intro to Rock Climbing
3 Lowland Leader – Training
3
4
4 Lowland Leader – Training
4
5
5 Skye Scrambling Trip
5
Lowland Leader – Expedition 6 Module
Senior Rambles – Tryst 6 Skye Scrambling Trip
6
High Tops 7 Lowland Leader – Expedition Module
7
Intro to Rock Climbing Skye Scrambling Trip
7
8
8
High Tops Skye Scrambling Trip
8
9 Senior Rambles – Tryst
9
9
10
10
10
11 High Tops
11
11
12
12
12
13 Classic Climbs
13 Senior Rambles - Stravaigers
13
14 Scramble
14 Mountain Navigation
14
15
15 Scramble
16 Senior Rambles - Stravaigers 16 More Climbs
15 16
17
Cairngorms Trip – Climbers / Walkers
17 Classic Climbs
18
Cairngorms Trip – Climbers / Walkers
18
19
Cairngorms Trip – Climbers / Walkers
19
19
20 Hill Skills
20 Senior Rambles – Tryst
20
21 Hill Skills
21
21 North West Highland Trip
22
Intro to Rock Climbing 22 Learn to Lead Climb
22
High Tops Hard Climbs
17 18 Last Day of School Holidays
Senior Rambles - Stravaigers North West Highland Trip
23 Senior Rambles - Tryst
23
23 North West Highland Trip
24
24
24
25
25 Coasteering
25
26
26 Mountain Skills
26 Classic Climbs
27
27
28 High Tops
28 Hard Climbs
28
29
29 High Tops
29
Senior Rambles – Tryst Intro to Rock Climbing
30
Scramble Blokarting
Senior Rambles - Stravaigers Mountain Skills
30 Senior Rambles - Stravaigers 30 Fisherfield Trip (three days) 31
30
Summer Break
27
Mountain Navigation Hard Climbs
31 High Tops
SEPTEMBER
3 Lowland Leader - Training
OCTOBER NOVEMBER Lowland Leader - Expedition Module 1 1 Canyoning 2 Coasteering 2 3 Senior Rambles - Stravaigers 3
4 Canoe / Kayak Intro
4
5 Senior Rambles - Stravaigers
5
5 High Tops
6 More Climbs
6
6
1
Lowland Leader - Training
2 Lowland Leader - Training
4
7 Classic Climbs
7
7 Senior Rambles – Tryst
8 Hard Climbs
8 High Tops
8
9
9
9 High Tops
10 High Tops
10
10
11
11 Scramble
12
Senior Rambles – Tryst
12 High Tops 13 Lowland Leader – Training
13 14 Glen Shiel Trip
Mountain Skills 14 Lowland Leader – Training Mountain Skills 15 Lowland Leader – Training
Glen Shiel Trip Canyoning Lowland Leader – Assessment 16 Canyon Trip 16 Glen Shiel Trip Lowland Leader – Assessment Senior Rambles - Stravaigers 17 17 Glen Shiel Trip Canyon Trip 18 Coasteering 18 Canyon Trip 15
Hill & Moorland Leader Award - Assessment Hill & Moorland Leader 11 Award - Assessment Hill & Moorland Leader 12 Award - Assessment
13 14
Senior Rambles Stravaigers
15 16 17 18 Canoe / Kayak Intro
River Kayak Trip River Canoe Trip
19 Senior Rambles - Stravaigers 19
19
20
20
20
21
Hill & Moorland Leader Award 21 - Training
21 Senior Rambles – Tryst
22 Intro to Rock Climbing
Mountain Navigation 22 Hill & Moorland Leader Award -
22
25
Training Hill & Moorland Leader 23 Award - Training Canoe / Kayak Intro 24 Senior Rambles – Tryst 25 Blokarting
26 Senior Rambles - Tryst
26 High Tops
26 Mountain Navigation
27
27
27
28 High Tops
28 Lowland Leader – Assessment
28
29
29 Lowland Leader - Assessment
29
Lowland Leader – 30 Expedition Module
River Kayak Trip 30 River Canoe Trip 31 Senior Rambles - Stravaigers
23
Canoe / Kayak Intro Scramble
24 Classic Climbs
23 High Tops 24 25
Senior Rambles Stravaigers
30
31
OUTDOOR ACTIVITY BASE Victoria Buildings, Queen Street, Falkirk. Tel: 01324 506846
outdooractivities@falkirkcommunitytrust.org www.falkirkcommunitytrust.org/outdoors falkirkoutdoors
Falkirk Community Trust gratefully acknowledges the support of Falkirk Council