"James has the amazing ability of making rock climbing accessible to any age group. I never thought, at 59 years, I would be having the time of my life in this unique sport, especially as I do not consider myself to be agile and fit! I tagged along with my family thinking there was no way I could do it, however, whilst walking through the scenic countryside to the cliff edge, James’ relaxed and engaging personality enabled him to get to know us all. His instructions and attention to detail gave me so much confidence. There was no pressure or sense of urgency. I was so proud of myself climbing up and abseiling down!! An experience I will never forget. A dream came true. I fully recommend this unique adventure under James' expertise. Go for it!”

“James was a fantastic instructor. He immediately made us feel so at ease and confident for us to make the climb. My mum is deaf and he immediately made sure he adapted his instructions and communication for her to hear and be included. She was adamant tha she wouldn’t make the climb but through his patience and clear instructions she soared up the rock face. Thank you for a wonderful experience James!”

“We had an amazing time with Tracks and Dales! James is a great teacher and made us feel very at ease. He has an infectious passion for climbing and was a joy to be taught by. The whole experience was a great boost for my mental health and I can't wait to get back climbing again!”

“Having slowly been accumulating the Scottish munros since my early 20’s, as my 60th birthday approached, I realised that unless I tackled the Cuillin ridge munros on Skye very soon, the dream of completing the munros would not happen. That’s where James comes in.

From initial communications regarding potential routes, difficulties, preparation and gear, I had a very good feeling. James is very knowledgeable, reassuring and helpful, freely giving the benefit of his years of mountain wisdom so that you arrive at the start of your adventure as well-prepared as possible.

On the trip itself, James was continuously checking the weather forecast, looking at the snow conditions and generally making plans that would give the best chances of success whilst keeping us safe.

On our first foray onto the Cuillin ridge to attempt Am Basteir followed by Sgurr nan Gillean, James would regularly check in to see how I was feeling as we encountered different types and difficulties of terrain, building up a picture of my capabilities. He was always encouraging, allowing me to push myself, but never afraid to advise if he thought I was putting myself unnecessarily into danger through poor choices. On the ridge itself, with conditions deteriorating into squally winds and snow showers, and the ridge plastered with mushy snow resulting in treacherous conditions underfoot, James had the sense to turn us around just before the Bad Step, and perhaps only 15 minutes from the summit under more benign conditions. This proved to be a wise move as getting back down was not at all easy. This is all by way of illustrating James’ excellent mountain judgement, and prioritising safety over achievement. But rather than imposing this, he called on us to discuss the plan to retreat, so there was always the sense of being a part of the decision-making process.

The second and third trips onto the Cuillin ridge were two of the best mountain days I have ever had. Again, James displayed wonderful patience, mountain leadership skills, encouragement and the uncanny ability to sense when I could be left to scramble up safely and when the extra security of the rope was needed. We succeeded in summitting four tricky munros over those two days, which I am still buzzing about now. This would not have happened without James’ help and encouragement, and plans are already being made with James to complete the remaining 5 Cuillin munros. Thanks for an incredible experience that I will never forget, and for giving me the belief that I can actually take on this challenge! I cannot recommend James highly enough.”

“I just wanted to say a huge thank you for fantastic day at the lakes the other week.

Amazing to think that it all started with me selling a pair of boots!

It’s kind of ironic as it was really the theme of the whole adventure; take every opportunity and seize the moment.

After struggling with the stresses of work and family life, the trip to the lakes with Tracks and Dales was the reset button I needed.

James, you are a true leader, pushing me to do things I didn’t know I had in me, whilst being able to know when to hold back. All this with a communication style which is second to none.

I climbed, I abseiled, I scrambled up rocks to reach higher up than I thought I could.

I will take these lessons and experiences with me, along with the knowledge I now have, to face the next challenges life throws at me.

Until next time… thanks again Tracks and Dales, and to anyone reading this, go for it, you can do more than you think and James will show you the way.”