From Hiking to Scrambling: The Adventure Upgrade Most Hikers Don’t Know About

Happy Thursday Crew, it’s time to talk about a topic that is one of my favourite thing, yay for me! Today we’re talking about what happens if rock climbing and hiking were to have a baby… scrambling!

If you like hiking, you’ll probably love scrambling and it is always the next natural progression for hikers opening up new and exciting routes up your favourite mountains. I know I was equal measures of excited and terrified the first time I decided to do a grade 1 scramble but I very quickly realised it’s really not as scary as I’d pictured in my mind and actually hella fun! So if scrambling has peaked your interest… let’s get stuck in!

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So What Actually Is Scrambling?

So, what actually is scrambling? Scrambling sits between hiking and rock climbing. It usually happens on steep, rocky terrain where walking alone isn’t enough, but full climbing techniques aren’t required. At times, the exposure can be higher, meaning there may be steep drops nearby. Think using your hands as well as your feet for movement to help pull yourself up or for balance but technically easy.

In the UK, scrambles are graded 1-3, with Grade 1 scrambles being the perfect beginner level and Grade 3 edging on rock climbing territory.

In short, scrambling is moving over steep rocky ground using both hands and feet, typically without ropes, on routes that are harder than a hike but easier than technical... Read more