Ben Nevis walking holidays are set to be very popular this year, as many people took up mountain climbing for the first time recently. During the overseas travel restrictions that have been in place for much of the past two years, families who would normally have holidayed abroad discovered that UK breaks can be just as much fun!
With foreign travel still a little unpredictable, a break amongst the beautiful lochs, glens, and mountains of Scotland is a favourite destination. One of the challenges on many a bucket list is conquering the world-famous Ben Nevis, the UK’s highest mountain.
It’s the perfect challenge: testing of mental and physical resilience, yet still very achievable for those with a reasonable level of physical fitness. With a summit 1,345m (4,406ft) above sea level, and dramatic ridges, screes, and rocky scrambles, there’s something for all levels of ability, not to mention the reward of breath-taking views from the top.
Summer is the ideal season to avoid any risk of snow and ice that covers the upper slopes through until late spring in some years. However, summer walking does of course present challenges of its own. Here are a few tips to make your hike a safe and comfortable experience during the warmer months.
What to wear
The key is to stay cool and avoid excessive sweating, which will lead to dehydration. Lightweight sweat wicking fabrics are best, as they dry quickly, as opposed to cotton, which absorbs moisture and holds on to it for a long time. This can make you feel clammy and uncomfortable on a long walk.
Choose light colours which reflect the sun, rather than dark colours which absorb it. Bear in mind that shorts can leave your legs exposed to nettle stings, bramble scratches, and bites, so thin long trousers may be a better choice. Vest tops mean that you will have to stop frequently to reapply sunblock, so a thin long or half-sleeved T-shirt is ideal.
A wide brimmed hat and sunglasses are also important to keep you cool and prevent UV damage, and of course sun block is essential. Midges and bugs can be a nuisance at this time of year, so an insect repellent is a useful item to have.
Even if the forecast is fine, still be sure to pack raingear and a few warm layers, because the weather can turn quickly at high altitudes.
Take plenty of water
Never underestimate the amount of water you will need on a long strenuous hike. It’s best to take frequent regular sips, rather than wait until you are really thirsty and glug back half a bottle at once.
If you want some extra back up, you could take rehydration solutions which contain electrolytes. These are essential minerals that aid hydration, muscle function, pH balance and more, and are lost through sweating.
Set off early
If a warm day is forecast, it’s best to take advantage of those light summer dawns and get going early when the day is at its coolest. Plan regular rest stops by streams to cool off and refresh yourself.