Scrambling Starters – What is Scrambling?

Scrambling grades

Scrambles are graded 1 – 3, with grade 1 scrambles being at the easier end of the spectrum. Normally grade 1 scrambles are easy to find, follow and to climb. If you’re having a bit of an epic scrambling, then these routes shouldn’t be too hard to escape from. That said escaping from classic grade 1 routes such as Tryfan’s North Ridge or a traverse of Crib Goch could prove difficult and more dangerous than sticking to the route. (Read: Five Grade 1 Scrambles to Get You Started)

Grade 2 scrambles will involve some harder moves  and will in general be more committing. Inexperienced scramblers who may not be so confident at height or who may not so sure-footed may prefer some of the moves to be safe-guarded by a rope. Hence knowing how place gear, to rig stances and belay a second are essential skills on these harder routes. (Read: A Beginner’s Guide to Scrambling)

With grade 3 routes you should expect the whole shebang! Go out and expect the route to be hard to find, hard to climb and do expect to need to rope for the crux moves. It won’t always be like this, but you should expect an adventure and be confident in your mountaineering skills if you’re going to take it to this level. 

Grade 2 and 3 scrambles also tend to involve a lot of decision making the whole way and so care needs to be exercised on this ground.