Walking in Different Weather Conditions in the Highlands

Always remember to consider both, weather and ground conditions
This is more than just checking the weather forecast and if you are booked onto one of the Landscape Lore walks, I will absolutely help you with this step. Conditions in the Highlands can change very quickly and are often very different to urban areas. Have you heard of our ‘Four Seasons in a Day’? It happens!

It is important to consider whether we will be walking in summer or winter conditions, which can go beyond the daily weather and the time of the year. If it’s a spring trip, you will want to consider if there will be late-lying snow, especially in the higher regions. It is also always important to factor in recent rainfall, as that will have an impact on the quality of paths, potential river and stream crossings and grip.

For the weather to expect on the day of your Landscape Lore walk, the most reliable mountain weather forecasts can be found from the Mountain Weather Information Service (MWIS) and from the Met Office. It is advisable to check the forecasts in the days before your walk and have a final check on the day itself. When doing so, please do not just look for the temperature and percipitation, but especially for wind. In addition, I will also be in touch via email in the days preceding our walk, as I use the forecasts to fine tune our plans and adjust the routes accordingly.

What to wear and what to take
Make sure you have all the right things packed for your Landscape Lore walk, including clothing, equipment, food and water. II always recommend to take some more snacks and water to just your regular day-ration and on longer walks some high energy snacks are advisable. To help you with your preparations for the walk, I have compiled a packing list for both, summer and winter conditions.

For clothing, I very much recommend a layering system consisting of a base layer, a mid layer and an outer layer. The base layer should be quick drying and wick moisture away from your skin. I usually opt for merino, but synthetic fibres are equally effectife for the purpose. Cotton is not recommended, as it takes much longer to dry and, therefore will cool you down, once it got wet. The mid layer should be a thin fleece or wind shirt in summer, or a thicker fleece in winter, to keep ypu warm enough. The outer layer protects you from the elements and therefore should be wind- and waterproof.

If you have read thepacking lists and have any follow-up questions on what to pack, please feel free to reach out.