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Walkabout Scotland

How To Prepare For Surprises When Hiking In Winter

Here are some tips on how to prepare for the unexpected.

Winter is a bracing time that can provide some unforgettable views when on Scottish hiking tours, as a combination of cold, clear weather can be among the best weather for walking.

At the same time, however, Scottish weather, much like the rest of the UK, is exceptionally unpredictable in winter, switching from relatively clear to unseasonably warm, before just as quickly seeing wet and snowy downpours that can affect visibility, temperature and traction.

Whilst preparing for surprises sounds like an oxymoron, there are elements you can predict, be prepared for and pack in anticipation of to make sure that your dream hiking trip does not become a nightmare.

Here are some tips on how to prepare for the unexpected.

Check The Forecasts

Checking the closest possible weather forecasts to your journey will enable you to have an idea of what types of hazards and bad weather to be prepared for.

In the UK, two main services provide this, with the Met Office providing regional and mountain-specific weather forecasts to take into account the dramatic variations found at altitude.

Alternatively, the Mountain Weather Information Service also provides more specific information for mountain climbers and people hiking summits, such as the effects the wind speed will have, cloud levels and a general planning outlook.

Dress In Layers

The general best practice for what to wear when on a winter hike is several thin layers that you can take off or put on as required.

Typically you should have at least three layers, each of which has its own function:

Base Layer – This layer manages moisture, keeps you dry and draws sweat away from your skin, keeping you cool when it is warm and stopping you from getting too cold in freezing temperatures.

Insulation Layer – This next layer, often taking the form of a fleece or other natural breathable material, traps air close to your body and lets you keep warm. Most of the time you can buy coats that contain a fleece layer and a waterproof shell.

Outer Layer – The final layer is the waterproof shell that protects you from the rain, snow and wind that can sometimes be ferocious in winter.

Having these all be different layers allows you to maintain the right temperature by swapping different layers for different conditions.

As well as this, pack a set of gloves and a hat to wear in particularly cool conditions.

Be Proactive

Once you are out on the hiking trail and you hear that unsettling rumble of thunder, there is not much you can do to avoid the weather but you can react effectively and keep yourself safe from trouble.

If you start noticing a sign of trouble, such as a sudden gust of wind, a rumble of thunder or a rather unsettling quiet, look for shelter, start to get your waterproof gear ready, try to find terrain that will not come out from under you, look for potential hazards such as tree limbs and wait it out.

The more prepared you are, the quicker you can adapt to changing weather conditions and potential hazards.