Mountaineering Scotland is urging people to “get mountain ready” this summer by relaunching a free on-line course, Sofa 2 Summit. The aim of the guidance is to give everyone the knowledge and confidence to head into the hills safely.
What is Sofa 2 Summit?
Mountain safety experts have created Sofa 2 Summit to help anyone who wants to explore Scotland’s hills and mountains.
Originally launched in 2021, Sofa 2 Summit has since helped more than 3000 people to gain the knowledge to head out into the hills safely and confidently.
The aim of Sofa 2 Summit is to make hillwalking more accessible to anyone that wishes to give it a go.
Background to Sofa 2 Summit
A recent survey by Helly Hansen found that 46% of Brits state “lack of knowledge” as the main barrier to getting outside more, whether that’s having the necessary skills and equipment or knowing where to go. Sofa 2 Summit addresses exactly that.
As part of the relaunch, Mountaineering Scotland’s team of experienced outdoor instructors have updated the content with fresh videos, revised advice and guidance, fun quizzes and a community discussion board, all on a new platform.
Access to the Sofa 2 Summit course
The free course is open to anyone, whether you’re a complete beginner or hoping to refresh your knowledge of best practice.
The course runs over seven modules covering everything you need to know to visit the mountains in Scotland, from planning to kit, to navigation and responsible access.
Stuart Younie, CEO of Mountaineering Scotland, said: “We are fortunate in Scotland that our hills and mountains are so accessible. While it doesn’t replace the value of an in-person course led by an expert instructor, Sofa 2 Summit is designed to give everyone the confidence and knowledge to enjoy the outdoors safely and responsibly as a first step in their hillwalking adventures”.
Sarah, a past graduate of Sofa 2 Summit, said: “I’d always wanted to try hillwalking but didn’t know where to start. This course made everything feel simple and achievable. I’m glad I could dip in and out at my own pace.”
See Sofa 2 Summit.