The term ‘scrambling’ is not one that we often associate with hiking. We usually associate scrambling with eggs, putting something together, or describing chaos.
However, we are here to change your perception of the word ‘scrambling’ and open your mind up to a fascinating concept that will make you want to take part straight away!
In hiking, the term scrambling refers to the use of both your feet and your hands. In other words, scrambling is a mixture between hiking and climbing.
The activity usually takes place in areas where there are mountains to practice on, and it combines both hiking and climbing to do it.
Maybe you are familiar with scrambling but have not heard it called by this term. Well, we have all of the answers to your questions about scrambling here.
If you are unfamiliar with scrambling, then get ready to want to find some mountains to give it a go!
What is Scrambling?
Scrambling is a term that is used to describe an activity that lies somewhere between hiking and climbing.
As scrambling isn’t entirely focused on climbing, it is often done without safety equipment such as harnesses or abseils.
Scrambling doesn’t take place on mountains that are as high as when you climb, but the summits can sometimes require the use of both your hands and feet in order to reach the top of them.
If the surface is particularly rocky, using your hands for support during scrambling helps to keep you balanced and steady.
The slopes that scramblers climb are much more manageable than the ones rock climbers need equipment for, so there is less of a need for safety equipment when scrambling.
How Difficult is Scrambling?
There are 3 grades of scrambling with grade 1 being the easiest and grade 3 being the most difficult.
It is a good idea to follow these grade outlines if you want to get into scrambling as you will be able to begin at your experience level.
Grade 1 is designed for beginners and grade 3 is for more advanced scramblers.
Grade 1
Grade 1 scrambling is perfect for beginners as it offers entry-level scrambling so that you can learn the basics.
The routes for grade 1 scrambling aren’t as steep so you can learn the correct techniques on some smaller inclines to get to grips with scrambling.
Grade 2
Grade 2 scrambling includes steeper slopes so that you are able to utilize the techniques that you learned from grade 1 scrambling.
The steeper slopes mean they are more difficult trails and grade 2 often includes longer hikes.
Grade 3
Grade 3 is for more advanced scramblers as you will need a lot of skill in order to complete the trails.
The slopes in grade 3 scrambling are more intense so it is important that you practice the slopes and techniques in grades 1 and 2 so that you can complete the steeper slopes.
How Can I Successfully Scramble?
There are some ways that you can improve your scrambling skills so that you can begin to try them on steeper slopes.
Scrambling can be a difficult and dangerous activity so it is important that you are fully prepared for it.
Make Sure You Have The Right Gear
Having the right gear for scrambling is extremely important.
You will need hiking shoes that will help to keep you secure and stable when you are scrambling so that you can remain balanced.
The shoes need to be durable for different surfaces but also flexible enough that you can move your feet when you are climbing.
Gloves and waterproof clothing are always advised when hiking and this is no different for scrambling.
You will need to be prepared for all weather conditions to make sure that you are safe and comfortable no matter what the weather is.
Know The Risks
It is important to know the risks of scrambling before you begin so that you know how in control you need to be.
As hiking and climbing are both dangerous activities, combining the two can create more risk of injury, so you need to be aware of the risks so you can prevent them whenever you can.
You need to remain in control when you are scrambling and make sure you are always looking for any risks.
You need to make sure that you are always in control when scrambling as you don’t want to fall and cause yourself any injuries.
Plan Your Route
It is so important to plan your route before you head off.
Having a guidebook so that you can follow a route or research beforehand will help you stay on track and prevent you from becoming lost.
You should know your route before you scramble as it is important that you are aware of any risks before you begin.
If you are a beginner scrambler, you need to be sure that the slopes will not be too steep for you so you need to know the route before you go.
Final Thoughts
To conclude, scrambling is a great activity for those who are looking for a change from hiking or climbing.
Scrambling can add excitement to your trails and will allow you to learn new skills so that you can enjoy scrambling and begin to increase the difficulties of your trails.
Scrambling can be a dangerous activity so it is important to be prepared.
This includes planning your trails in advance and making sure that you have the right equipment and gear to keep you safe and warm when you are scrambling.
If you don’t plan your routes beforehand, you could be in danger of being out of your depth if you haven’t practiced scrambling enough.
Finally, if you want to give scrambling a try, you shouldn’t be put off by all of the risks.
Scrambling can be a dangerous activity, but there are ways to prepare for it and minimize risks.
If you properly plan your route, you can develop your scrambling skills and begin to try more difficult routes.
