Outdoors summer programme 2016

Summer Outdoor Adult Activities 2016

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Welcome

Equipment

Welcome to our summer 2016 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.

www.falkirkcommunitytrust.org/List

Transport and Venues All our courses start and finish from our main office at Victoria buildings 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.

Contents

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Equipment list available from:

Activity

Page

Welcome & Introduction

2-5

Walking

6-7

High Tops

8-13

Climbing

14-15

Rock Climbing

16-17

Training

18-20

Trips

21-25

Rock & Water

26-28

Annual Planner

30-31

Venues, unless specifically stated, are dependent on weather conditions and will be decided on the day of activity.

Photo Credits: Craig McLaren unless otherwise stated.

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).

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 Two trips to Skye – Scramblers paradise.

A big trip to Knoydart – All three Knoydart Munros and four of the Corbetts over four days A return to the North West Highlands – Climbing or hill walking trip in one of Scotland’s prime outdoor pursuits areas New climbing matrix – this will make it simpler for folk to get on the climbing course they want and to share the experience with others who climb at their level Backpacking trips to Lochaber and the Cairngorms

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5

Walking

Senior Rambles

Rambles

High Tops

Mountain Scrambles

Senior Rambles All Senior Rambles cost ÂŁ8.60 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 Foundry Loan car park in Larbert at 0930 on the alternate Tuesdays.

Stravaiger Ramble dates 19/04/16

03/05/16

17/05/16

31/05/16

14/06/16

28/06/16

Summer Break

23/08/16

06/09/16

20/09/16

04/10/16

18/10/16

01/11/16

15/11/16

29/11/16

Tryst Ramble dates

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26/04/16

10/05/16

24/05/06

07/06/06

21/06/16

Summer Break

30/08/16

13/09/16

27/09/16

11/10/16

25/10/16

08/11/16

22/11/16

Photo Credit: Craig McLaren

NEW Hill Rambles Hill Ramble days begin at 09:00 and cost ÂŁ17.00 Our well established senior rambles and high tops cater for both ends of our walking client base. We feel there is enough demand for us to run another rambling programme which will sit between them - longer than our senior rambles but not as committing as our high tops outings. Typically these days will involve around 16km of walking with around 500 metres of height gain.

08/09/16

22/09/16

06/10/16

20/10/16

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High Tops All High Tops days begin at 07:00 and cost £22.80

From the biggest Munro days to the most out of the way Corbetts we can take you there. Our days out on the mountains are justly famous for getting to the summits by interesting means whatever the weather.

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.

All High Tops depart Falkirk at 07:00

01/15/16

Carn na Caim & A’Bhuidheanach Bheag DRUMOCHTER 14.7km + 680m of ascent These two Munros are straightforward in summer conditions. They have a high start in Drumochter and an ATV track which goes all the way up to the plateau. The route goes out and back from here to tick both the hills. This should be a relatively easy outing.

12/05/16

Carn Dearg, Sgor Gaibhre & Meall na Meoig RANNOCH 24.9km + 1200m, of ascent This is a lovely, if a bit committing, round of two Munros and a Corbett.

Beginning along the road from Rannoch Station a track takes us a fair way into the hills. Our route heads up onto Sron Leachd a’ Chaorainn and then on to Carn Dearg, over the Mam Ban to Sgor Gaibhre. That’s the Munros done. The Corbett lies south along the continuing ridge so we can tick it on the way back.

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22/05/16

Fuar Bheinn & Creach Bheinn MORVEN 16km + 1400m of ascent These two Corbetts make up the highest points on the Galmadale Round, the finest hillwalking circuit in Morven.

The route goes in a clockwise direction and takes in an outlying Graham, Beinn na Cille, on the way. It’ll be a long day with a lot of up and down. We’ll take the ferry over from Corran. The cost of the ferry will have to be met by clients on the day.

09/06/16

Ben Lawyers Traverse LOCH TAY 14.9km + 1340m of ascent This traverse of the whole Lawers ridge will be a nice outing and is easily the best way to do it. We’ll get dropped off high on the Lairig road and go west to east, taking advantage of the high start.

Five Munros, Beinn Ghlas, Ben Lawers, An Stuc, Meall Garbh and Meall Greigh, get ticked. We’ll get picked up at the Ben Lawyers Inn.

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High Tops

19/06/16

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07/07/16

Sgorr Dhearg & Sgorr Dhonuill BALLACHULISH

Ben Wyvis & Little Wyvis GARVE

12.4km + 1300m of ascent

18.1 km + 1240m of ascent

Two Munros on a big lump of a hill collectively called Beinn a’ Bheithir, mountain of the serpent. The usual approach through forestry in Gleann a’ Chaolais is pretty dull so we’ll go up by the really fine Sgorr Bhan Ridge which is close to Ballachulish, our starting point. An easy connecting ridge links this top to the Munros. After Sgorr Dhonuill we return to the bealach and descend the southern slope to the path back to the village.

It’s a fair drive to these hills so we thought that if we’re doing the Munro we should tick the Corbett as well.

Parking at Gatbat will allow us to take advantage of the slightly higher start.

We’ll head up to Bealach Mor and onto Ben Wyvis, back to the bealach then on to Little Wyvis. We’ll descend by the track off Little Wyvis. We’ll use a bike for the instructor to get back for the bus.

14/08/16

Braeriach, Sgor an Lochain Uaine & Carn Toul (Bike Access) CAIRNGORMS Bike 23.8km + 440m of ascent, Walk 16.2km & 1210m of ascent

17/07/16

Broad Cairn, Cairn Bannoch, Tolmount & Tom Buidhe GLEN CLOVA 25.6km + 1140m of ascent We can tick four Munros in the Mounth area of the Southern Cairngorms during this outing. We’ll take the Capel Mounth route north then follow the River South Esk upstream then on to the plateau where we should have good views down to Loch Muick. The Munros fall easily from here. We take an anti-clockwise round and descend by the White Water and Glen Doll. This one will give the legs a bit of a workout.

21/07/16

Three mighty Munros lying deep in the Cairngorms are the target here. We’ll need to take bikes up to Loch Einich and then do the round on foot. Braeriach is tackled first, and it’s a long pull up from the loch to the summit. With most of the height gained the next two Munros fall fairly easily, although this being the Cairngorms it’s not a stroll in the park. We return by Coire Dhondail.

18/08/16

Beinn Fhionnlaidh GLEN ETIVE 12.9km + 1000m ascent Beinn Fhionnlaidh sits on its own and can be accessed by either Glen Creran or Glen Etive. We’ll take the latter option to shorten the drive. It’s also a nice way Photo Credit: Craig McLaren up the hill. We begin at Invercharnan and head through the forestry plantation.

Once out of the woods the hill reveals itself. We’ll head out and back from Coire na Tullaich and return through the forest.

01/09/16

Glas Bheinn Mhor & Beinn nan Aighenan GLEN ETIVE

Carn a Chlamain & Beinn Mheadhonach – (Bike Access) GLEN TILT

17.9km +1670m of ascent

14.3km + 380m ascent (bike), 15.8km + 1120m ascent (walk)

Our first venture down Glen Etive this season visits two Munros, one which is way out the back of the main hills whilst the other sits nestled among its neighbours. Beginning at Coileteir we head up Allt nam Meirleach to Coire Lochain Ghaneamhaich then over to Beinn nan Aighenan, the remote one.

Once back on the main ridge we go over Meall nan Tri Tighearnan to our second Munro, Glas Bheinn Mhor. We’ll descend by the Allt Mhueran.

The hills accessed from Glen Tilt are quite remote so taking a bike up the good access track makes the day achievable. Old Blair is our starting point. We bike up to the bridge

by Marble Lodge and switch to walking mode.

We’ll take the new track all the way up Faire Clach-ghlais to our Munro, Carn a’ Chlamain.

Heading west takes us down to upper Gleann Mhairc. A steep pull leads directly onto Beinn Mheadhonach, a Corbett. Its south ridge leads back to Glen Tilt and the bikes.

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High Tops 11/09/16

Stob Coire Easain & Stob a’Choire Mheadhoin LOCH TREIG 16.5km + 1170 m ascent Rising steeply from the western shore of Loch Treig are two Munros which are characteristic of the area. Pointy and broad shouldered enough to give the legs a stretch. Fine for an autumn day. We’ll do the Munro tickers out and back route beginning at Fersit and going over Meall Cian Dearg. Great views over to the Grey Corries and to Rannoch are our reward.

29/09/16

Ben Oss DALRIGH 15.2km 1170m of ascent We tried to tick this Munro last winter but the weather wasn’t playing so we only managed Beinn Dubhchraig. This time we’ll head for Ben Oss first and possibly do Dubhchraig if we’re going well. We’ll head out and back by the standard Munro baggers route as the walk takes place during the commercial stag stalking season.

09/10/16

Beinn nan Eun GLEN ETIVE 15km + 890m of ascent We’ve been meaning to tick this Munro for ages but it’s always eluded us. We’ll do an out and back route up Glen Ceitlein to Coirean Riabhach then ascend Beinn nan Eun from there. Bring your gaiters or a sense of humour - Or both.

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13/10/16

The Fara GLEN TRUIM 14.7km + 630 metres of ascent (20.8km + 910 metres of ascent if we extend the walk) The big lump brooding above Dalwhinnie is a fine Corbett with good views down Loch Ericht towards Ben Alder. It’s usually overlooked in favour of this bigger hill but when an ascent is combined with a walk through the atmospheric Dirc Mhor, a huge glacial gash in the mountain, the route becomes a lot more interesting.

The walk starts on the Wade road to Laggan and takes the track into the wilds which follows the Allt an t-Sluic which brings us to the spectacular Dirc Mhor. From the end of this it’s easy walking to tick our summit. If the views are fine and there’s time we may extend the walk to go over the ridge to its western end before returning over the bumps to the bus.

27/10/16

Carn Dearg MONADHLIATH 18.8km + 740m of ascent Situated apart from the other Munros in the area Carn Dearg is worth a day out to itself. The approach through Glen Banchor is steeped in history and the summit ridge is narrow, unlike the rest of the Monadhliath. We’ll continue along this ridge if conditions allow. If not we’ll go back the way we came.

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Mountain Scrambles All Scrambles start at 07:00 and costs £34.40

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.

02/06/16

Sron na Lairig (Grade 2) 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.

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.

30/06/16

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 or Jean, as it’s referred to, is climbed first before abseiling off and onto the Central Peak, which is the summit of the mountain.

28/07/16

Aonach Eagach (Grade 2/3) GLENCOE This outing is 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.

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26/08/16

Curved Ridge (Grade 2/3) GLENCOE

15/09/16

Pygmy Ridge/ Afterthought Arete (Grade 2/3) CAIRNGORMS A classic Raeburn route is on offer here in Coire an t-Sneachda. This is a nice way up to the plateau on sound granite, from where we descend to Stag Rocks in the Loch Avon Basin to climb Afterthought Arête, which is a bit longer but the same grade.

06/10/16

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.

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Rock Climbing For the 2016 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

Introduction to climbing in the Scottish mountains Guided Day - ratio 1:2

Introduction to Rock Climbing Supervised/Instructed day - ratio 1:6

All climbing days start at 0900 | Costs £22.80 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.

13/05/16

04/06/16

27/08/16

14/09/16

23/06/16

Classic climbs Guided Day - ratio 1:2

Hard Climbs Guided Day - ratio 1:2

Learn to Lead Climb Instructed Day - ratio 1:2

NEW I ntroduction to climbing in the Scottish mountains Guided Day - ratio 1:2 Starts at 0700am | Costs £45.50

This course builds on the previous one or can stand alone for folk with scrambling experience. We’ll look at getting on some of the easier multi-pitch mountain climbs, or go to a local crag if the weather’s bad, and split pitches so folk get an idea about the joys of summer rock climbing. We will climb on routes from Difficult to Severe grades.

Participants should have some previous climbing experience, whether at a crag or at an indoor wall and be hill fit.

Photo credit - Euan Whittaker 16

23/05/16

11/06/16

08/08/16

03/09/16

23/07/16

NEW Classic Climbs (Mod – Hard Severe) Guided Day - ratio 1:2

Starts at 0700am | Costs £45.50 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 23/05/16

11/06/16

27/06/16

23/07/16

08/08/16

03/09/16

19/09/16

08/10/16

NEW Hard climbs (VS – E1) Guided Day - ratio 1:2

Starts at 0700am | Costs £45.50 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 01/06/16

12/06/16

06/07/16

25/08/16

10/09/16

28/09/16

07/08/16

Learn to Lead Climb Instructed day - ratio 1:6

Starts at 09:00 | Costs £45.50 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.

13/05/16

04/06/16

27/08/16

14/09/16

23/06/16

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ountain Training Scotland M Courses 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 Skills Cost £95 per two day course Courses begin at 07:00 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. Our courses will be based in the Scottish mountains.

11/06/16 - 12/06/16 05/09/16 - 06/09/16

Qualifications Lowland Leader Award The new 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

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LLA Training 2016 dates Lowland leader award | Training Cost £125

Candidates must register direct with Mountain Training prior to training | Fee £39.

Friday 6th May - 18:00 until 21:00

Friday 16th Sept - 18:00 until 21:00

Saturday 7th May - 09:00 until 18:30

Saturday 17th Sept - 09:00 until 18:30

Sunday 8th May - 09:00 until 17:00

Sunday 18th Sept - 09:00 until 17:00

Friday 29th July - 18:00 until 21:00

Friday 28th Oct - 18:00 until 21:00

Saturday 30th July - 09:00 until 18:30

Saturday 29th Oct - 09:00 until 18:30

Sunday 31st July - 09:00 until 17:00

Sunday 30th Oct - 09:00 until 17:00

LLA Assessment 2016 dates

Lowland leader award | Assessment £125 Saturday 14th May - 09:00 until 18:00

Saturday 15th Oct - 09:00 until 18:00

Sunday 15th May - 09:00 until 18:00

Sunday 16th Oct - 09:00 until 18:00

Saturday 10th Sept - 09:00 until 18:00 Sunday 11th Sept - 09:00 until 18:00

Mountain Training Expedition Skills Module Expedition Skills Module | £125 Course 1: 16th - 17th April

Course 3: 22nd – 23rd Oct

Day 1 09:00 – overnight

Day 1 09:00 – overnight

Day 2 finish 12:00

Day 2 finish 12:00

Course 2: 10th - 11th September Day 1 09:00 – overnight Day 2 finish 12:00 Other course dates are available. Please contact our office for details.

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uke of Edinburgh Award D Expedition Duke of Edinburgh’s Award – 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.

25/05/16 - 28/05/16

Isle of Skye Scrambling Trip The Skye trip starts at 18:00 Costs £198 for scramblers

This season we’re heading back to the lovely Isle of Skye for two trips. The Black Cuillin are famous for providing great sport for scramblers. There’s so many classic routes to go at.

25/06/16 - 26/06/16

Cairngorm Camping Trip – Climbers & Walkers

This trip departs Falkirk at 07:00 Costs £75 for walkers and £105 for climbers This trip is for either walkers who would like to visit the remote high tops in Eastern Cairngorms, or for climbers who would like to get on two of the region’s classic summer climbs. Both teams will share transport to the area but will be enjoying the hills independently. As usual all transport, equipment (apart from camping gas) and guiding is included in the course fee.

Walkers We plan to traverse a section of the Eastern Cairngorms, camp high in the range and tick four Munros along the way. We’ll be carrying what kit we need over the tops for two days.

Day 1

17.9km + 970m of ascent.

We will be dropped off at Linn of Quoich, walk up Glen Quoich, into Dubh-ghleann and then head up to Beinn Bhreac, our first Munro. Now the walking is on the big upland expanse of Moine Bhealaidh, up to Beinn a’ Chaorainn, which is Munro number two.

We’ll walk east from here and camp at the head of the Allt an Agaidh Mhilis.

Day 2

22.6km + 680m of ascent.

We’ll continue east along the old Aberdeenshire – Angus county boundary and on up to Beinn a’ Bhuird’s North Top. After ticking our third Munro, 22

we continue down to The Sneck and then up to Ben Avon’s summit tor, Leabaidh an Daimh Bhuidhe. Once that’s ticked, we’ll head south to Carn Eas and then drop down to the path which leads to Gleann an t-Slugain and eventually Invercauld.

Day 1

Climbers

Day 2

Classic climbs (Mod – Hard Severe) Guided Day - ratio 1:2 Remote Square Face (very difficult), and Mitre Ridge (hard severe), are the two classic climbs in the Eastern Cairngorms. We plan to walk up to The Sneck area from Invercauld and set up camp. We’ll then head over to climb Squareface before spending the night on the hill. Next morning we’ll head back over to Garbh Choire and climb Mitre Ridge, before returning to the camp and heading back to Invercauld.

04/08/16 - 07/08/16

Knoydart High Tops Trip

Departs Thursday at 06:30 Cost £160 plus £20 payable for ferry on the day All equipment hire, transport (except ferry), accommodation (mixed dorm) and guiding included in the price.

Four big days in the wilds of Knoydart.

Wild camping, backpacking, ticking three Munros and up to four Corbetts - what’s not to like? We’ll even plan for a night in the bunkhouse and a meal in the pub. The camps will be wild and high enough to blow away any midges.

Knoydart is viewed as one of the iconic hill walking areas of the West Highlands, and rightly so. Ladhar Bheinn is the jewel in the crown and a circuit of it and its satellite Corbetts offers two days of adventure. The two Munros east of Mam Barrisadale, Meall Buidhe and Luinne Bheinn, are tackled on days three and four, and if we have time we’ll also tick the two nearest Corbetts from this route.

15.4km + 900m of ascent.

Drive to Mallaig, get the ferry to Inverie and walk to our first wild camp, which is high in the Mam Li to the north of the peninsula. Set up camp. Optional ascent of Beinn na Caillich.

16.4km + 1460m of ascent.

Traverse Ladhar Bheinn to Sgurr Coire Choinnichean. Descend to Inverie. Stay in hostel. Optional visit to The Old Forge.

Day 3

20.6km + 1780m of ascent.

Walk up Mam Barrisdale, ascend Luinne Bheinn. Out and back to Sgurr a’ Choire-bheithe. Wild camp at Bealach a’ Choire Odhair.

Day 4

20.2km + 1130m of ascent.

Continue south to Meall Buidhe, over Mam Meadail to Mam Uchd. Out and back to Beinn Bhuidhe. Descend to Inverie.

Get ferry to Mallaig. Arrive in Falkirk late Sunday evening.

If folk only want to do the Munros the trip is set up to accommodate this. Anyone can sit out two of the Corbetts in their tent if preferred. Sgurr Coire Choinnichean can be omitted by walking down the Mam Barrisdale as can Beinn Bhuidhe by heading down the Mam Meadil.

Leaving out the Corbetts will cut down significantly on distance travelled and height gained. We plan to stash expedition food and spare clothing at the hostel so we should only need one day’s supplies while carrying the expedition rucksacks.

Plan to travel light. Rely on food which doesn’t need refrigerated. Bring cash for the pub. The ferry from Mallaig to Inverie costs £20 return. Folk will have to meet the cost of this themselves. The cost of the bunkhouse is included in the course fee.

70km and over 5000 metres of ascent make this a committing trip (55km and 2500 metres of ascent if omitting Corbetts). If all the peaks are ascended it will be a strenuous undertaking. We can provide most equipment required for the trip. Folk will need to bring their own food and fuel.

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22/08/16 - 24/08/16

North West Highlands Climbing and High Tops Trip This trip departs Falkirk at 06:30 Costs £195 for climbers and £127.50 for walkers

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

Suilven 19.5km + 840m of ascent.

We’ll take the usual walker’s path in from Lochinver and tick Caisteal Liath, the Sugar Loaf. This will be a good way to walk off any travel stiffness.

Day 2 Climbers

The Fidler’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 Beag and Cul Mor traverse 16.2km + 1500m of ascent.

These two Corbetts can be linked by following an adventurous route over steep, rough ground.

Day 3 Climbers

We’ve got options of either scrambling or climbing on Stac Pollaidh or cragging at Ardmair or Reiff.

Walkers

We’ll go for the nearest Corbett from the hostel, Glas Bheinn, 15km + 800m of ascent. There’s a good path out and back so it’ll be an easy outing.

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05/09/16 - 07/09/16

CIC Climbing Trip

This trip departs Falkirk at 07:00 Costs £185 We will be based at Scotland’s only true mountain hut on Ben Nevis. The plan is to climb for the three days ticking routes like Centurion, The Long Climb and others. To get the most out of the trip folk should be happy seconding climbs to VS standard. If the weather isn’t great we can get on some of the Great Ridges instead.

Photo Credit: Craig McLaren 17/09/16 - 18/09/16

22/09/16 - 25/09/16

Lochaber High Tops Trip

Isle of Skye Scramble Trip

Our last wee summer trip to Lochaber went so well we thought we’d go back and do some more hills and stay at the campsite in Glen Nevis. This means we can do a big day on the hill, drive for 10 mins and set up the tents. It’ll also mean we can make the most of our time in the area and have another big adventure on the second day.

Our second trip of the year to Skye offers a chance to scramble to the island’s Munro summits. Most of these high tops require a degree of scrambling. In addition to this we can do some of the classics; The Coire Lagan Round or The Pinnacles of Sgurr na Gillean. Accommodation will be at the SYHA hostel in Glen Brittle. Bear in mind there are no shops nearby.

This trip departs Falkirk at 07:00 Costs £75

Day 1

Departing Falkirk at 07:00 Costs £220

Aonach Beag & Aonach Mor 15.8km +1350m of ascent We’ll head up to upper Glen Nevis and walk to Steall. We’ll ascend Sgurr a’ Bhuic at the western end of the Grey Corries. From here we can get on to Aonach Beag and then over to Aonach Mor. We’ll descend by Coire Guibhsachan. We’ll put tents up in Glen Nevis campsite, where there are the usual facilities. Folk will need to pay for their own camping pitch on the day.

Day 2 Carn Mor Dearg & Ben Nevis 16.3km + 1470m of ascent For this classic outing we’ll return to upper Glen Nevis and head back up Coire Guibhsachan. From the bealach, we’ll head up the straightforward ridge which leads directly on to Carn Mor Dearg’s summit. The way to Ben Nevis is by the famous CMD Arete, a sensational exposed ridge. Once over this there’s a steep pull up to The Ben’s expansive summit. We’ll head down to the Braveheart car park in Lower Glen Nevis by the normal tourist route.

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Rock & Water Canyoning

The Canyon days start at 0900 Cost £29.30 From the dryer technical gorges, to the full on big canyon descents, we will get you up or down safely. Canyoning is a growing worldwide outdoor pursuits phenomenon. 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 narrow gorge features 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.

10/06/16

12/08/16

14/10/16

Coasteering

The Coasteering day starts at 0900 Cost £29.30 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.

15/07/16

26

09/09/16

White Water Rafting

The white water rafting days start at 0900 Cost £32.00 Rafting is a fun, sociable way, to get down big rivers. No prior experience is necessary; just bring a sense of adventure. You will get wet.

30/09/16 28/10/16

15/10/16

Mountain Biking Guided wild rides

The guided wild ride days start at 0800 Cost £32.00 This course offers a chance to get away from the busy trail centres and onto some natural trails in some stunning locations. Scotland has the best mountain biking in the UK. Areas we may use include the Pentland Hills, the Beinn a’ Ghlo circuit, Glen Bruar or Glen Almond, including Ben Chonzie. No trail centres - just trail. Old fashioned adventures with maps and muscle.

30/05/16

25/06/16

29/08/16

01/10/16

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Blokarting Blokarting

The blokarting days start at 0800 Cost £26.00 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.

23/09/16 22/10/16

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05/10/16

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2016 Summer Outdoor Programme at a glance Walking

High Tops

Climbing

Mountaineering

MAY 1

High Tops

2 3

Senior Rambles - Stravaigers

4

Hard Climbs

M

Scramble

T

TH

S

F

S

S

M

Hard Climbs

T

High Tops

7

Lowland Leader Award - Training

S

8

Lowland Leader Award - Training

Senior Rambles - Tryst

S

High Tops

T

Canyoning

W

High Tops TH

S

Intro Rock Climbing – Mountain Classic Climbs S Mountain Skills

M

Hard Climbs Mountain Skills

T

S

Lowland Leader Award - AssessmentS

15

Lowland Leader Award - AssessmentS

W

16

M

TH

T

F

F

W

19

TH

20

F

21

S

22

High Tops

23

Intro Rock Climbing – Mountain Classic Climbs

24 Senior Rambles - Tryst 25 26

F

S

14

18

TH

F

13

Senior Rambles - Stravaigers

W

TH

Intro Rock Climbing - Crag Learn to Lead Climb

17

T

W

M

11 12

M

M

F

Senior Rambles - Tryst

JULY W

S

Lowland Leader Award - Training

10

Intro Rock Climbing – Crag Learn to Lead Climb

Rock & Water

TH

6

9

Trips

JUNE S

W

5

Skills

Senior Rambles - Stravaigers

M

W

T

TH

Coasteering

F

High Tops

S

S

S

High Tops Senior Rambles - Tryst

S

M

S

T

M

W

T

High Tops

W

Intro Rock Climbing – Crag Learn to Lead Climb

TH F

Intro Rock Climbing – Mountain Classic Climbs

M

TH

T

F

S

S

M

Skye Trip 1 W

Cairngorm Walking Trip Cairngorm Climbing Trip Mountain Biking

TH

Cairngorm Walking Trip Cairngorm Climbing Trip

Skye Trip 1

S

S

T

27

Skye Trip 1

F

Classic Climbs

M

W

28

Skye Trip 1

S

Senior Rambles - Stravaigers

T

29 30 31

30

S

Mountain Biking Senior Rambles - Stravaigers T

TH

W

Lowland Leader Award F Training

TH

Lowland Leader Award Training S

Scramble M

Scramble

Lowland Leader Award S Training

AUGUST

SEPTEMBER

1

M

2

T

3 4 5 6

W

Knoydart High Tops Trip Knoydart High Tops Trip

High Tops

Knoydart High Tops Trip S

Intro Rock Climbing – Mountain Classic Climbs Mountain Skills CIC Climbing Trip Senior Rambles - Stravaigers Mountain Skills CIC Climbing Trip

7 8

Intro Rock Climbing – Mountain Hill Ramble M Classic Climbs

9

T

10 W

11 TH

12

Canyoning

13 14

High Tops

CIC Climbing Trip

Coasteering

S

Senior Rambles - Tryst

S

Intro Rock Climbing – Crag Learn to Lead Climb

T

High Tops

TH F

T

W

TH

Lowland Leader Award - Training

S

TH

Lowland Leader Award – Training Lochaber High Tops Trip

S M

F

Classic Climbs

20

S

Senior Rambles - Stravaigers

21

S

25 Hard Climbs

Hill Ramble Skye Trip 2

TH

Skye Trip 2

S

S

30 Senior Rambles - Tryst

F S

F

29 Mountain Biking

TH

Skye Trip 2

Intro Rock Climbing – Crag 27 Learn to Lead Climb 28

T

W

26 Scramble

S

W

Hill Ramble Scramble

TH

F

Classic Climbs

S

High Tops

S

M

T W

High Tops

TH

Canyoning

F

Lowland Leader Award – Assessment White Water Rafting

S

Lowland Leader Award Assessment

S

M

Senior Rambles - Stravaigers

T W

Hill Ramble

TH

W

Senior Rambles - Stravaigers Skye Trip 2 23 North West Highlands Trip T Blokarting 24 North West Highlands Trip

F

W

M

Blokarting

W

Lowland Leader Award – Training Lochaber High Tops Trip

22 North West Highlands Trip

T

M

19

31

T

Scramble

17 18

M

M

Senior Rambles - Stravaigers

High Tops Lowland Leader Award – Assessment Senior Rambles - Tryst Lowland Leader Award – Expedition SkillsS

M

16

S

Hard Climbs Lowland Leader Award – Assessment Lowland Leader Award – Expedition SkillsS

F

15

S

S S

Hard Climbs Knoydart High Tops Trip

S

Mountain Biking

F

TH

F

OCTOBER TH

F

Lowland Leader Award – Expedition Skills Blokarting

S

Lowland Leader Award – Expedition Skills

S M

Senior Rambles - Tryst

T

M

Senior Rambles - Tryst Hard Climbs

M

High Tops

T

White Water Rafting

T

W

W

High Tops

TH

Lowland Leader Award – Training White Water Rafting

TH

Lowland Leader Award - Training

F

Lowland Leader Award - Training

W

F S S M

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 32