Is Scrambling in the UK Dangerous?
Writing this blog has been difficult. I didn’t want to ruffle too many feathers, but with the record number of Mountain Rescue call-outs and the increasing frequency of accidents on our hills, it’s time to have an honest conversation.
The following are my personal opinions, not a matter of fact. You can take them or leave them, but my goal is to help you make informed decisions before you head out on your next adventure.
What is Scrambling?
According to the British Mountaineering Council (BMC), the definition is:
“Scrambling covers the middle ground between walking and climbing… All scrambles require a degree of rock climbing as both hands and feet are being used. It’s essentially easy rock climbing, travelling through stunning mountain scenery.”
In the UK, we generally break this down into three grades:
Grade 1: Essentially an exposed walking route.
Grade 2: The line starts to blur between scrambling and rock climbing.
Grade 3: Often appears in climbing guides as “Moderately” graded climbing routes (the easiest climbing grade).
Why Scrambling is Often Harder Than Climbing
In my opinion, scrambling requires significantly more judgment than a graded rock climb. Here’s why:
Complex Route Finding: On a traditional rock climb, the line is usually obvious. On a scramble, you are often on broken ground where the “right” way isn’t always clear.
Rock Quality: Climbers usually stick to clean, solid rock. Scramblers often deal with loose or “chossy” rock that requires constant assessment.
The “Safety Net” Factor: On a rock climb, you are attached to a rope; you feel safe. On a Grade 1 scramble like Crib Goch, the movement is easy, but the exposure is massive. It is difficult to protect with a rope, meaning a slip can result in a serious injury or fatality.
Gear Dilemmas: If you go rock climbing, you take the full rack of safety gear. When scrambling, people often leave the rope at home, leaving zero room for error if things go wrong.
The Problem with Terminology
I believe the word “scrambling” is part of the problem. Words trigger mindsets. If we called a Grade 1 scramble a “Grade 1 Rock Climb” or “Mountaineering,” would people approach it with more respect?
Look at how other systems handle this:
The US System (YDS): They use a decimal system from 1 (hiking) to 5 (climbing). It creates a clear model of progression.
Winter Grading: In the UK, the word “scrambling” disappears in winter. You go from a “walk” to a “Grade 1 Climb.” This immediately changes the climber’s mindset regarding the skill level required.
The UK Environment: Small but Mighty
Our mountains aren’t the biggest in the world, but they pack a punch. Because of our ease of access, you can be on serious, life-threatening terrain within 20 minutes of leaving your car.
Combined with the unpredictable UK weather, a sunny day can turn into zero visibility in minutes. Without solid navigation skills, it is incredibly easy to wander off-route onto much more challenging and dangerous terrain.
The “Instagram” Effect & Taking Ownership
There is a lot of talk about “influencers” making dangerous routes look easy. While I agree this makes certain areas overcrowded, I also believe in personal responsibility.
If you are an adult, you have access to a wealth of information. To blame an influencer for a bad decision is absurd. We live in an age where you can:
Research routes in official guidebooks.
Check mountain weather forecasts.
Book an instructor to teach you the necessary skills.
Take ownership of your actions. If a route looks too busy or too hard, have the confidence to find another path.
Final Thoughts: Is Scrambling Dangerous?
All mountain activities come with an inherent risk, regardless of your experience level. However, to me, “dangerous” is a powerful word that creates unease. I prefer to see scrambling as a calculated risk. I am not suggesting we change the word “scrambling” in our vocabulary. What I am suggesting is that you change your mindset towards the word. Don’t treat a scramble like a casual walk just because it isn’t labelled a “climb.” Treat it with the same respect, preparation, and gear assessment you would give to any technical mountaineering undertaking.
By gathering the right information, respecting the conditions, and knowing your own skillset, you turn a potential danger into a managed adventure. Do your research, respect the mountains, and work your way up.
Level Up Your Skills
If you want to move from “hiking” to “scrambling” but want to ensure you have the right mindset and technical skills, come and join us. We offer hands-on training to give you the confidence and techniques needed to tackle the UK’s most iconic ridges safely.
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