Winter peaks warning arrives with Cairngorms' first snow
Some of the first heavy snows of the winter are expected to hit the high tops this weekend.
It may still only be October, but hill walkers have been warned they should be prepared for winter conditions.
And with the days shortening and clocks going back an hour this weekend, darkness will be coming a lot sooner, making a headtorch an essential piece of kit.
“Short days and severe weather put greater demands on your equipment and your own ability and hillcraft,” said Mountaineering Scotland Mountain Safety Adviser Heather Morning.
“Now is the time to ‘winterise’ your rucksack – make sure you’re properly prepared for winter weather and have all the necessary equipment as well as adequate clothing.
“Planning for your route takes on extra importance too.
"You need to factor in the reduced daylight hours and that weather and ground conditions could slow you down considerably, so it’s best not to be overambitious at the start of the season.”
The sportscotland Avalanche Information Service is to restart providing free daily reports on snow conditions and avalanche forecasts for six mountain areas of Scotland from December 14.
General hill walking and winter mountaineering advice is also available through the Mountaineering Scotland website at www.mountaineering.scot .
In partnership with Tiso, Cotswold and Craigdon stores, the organisation is running a winter safety lecture tour.
Damon Powell, chair of Scottish Mountain Rescue, said: “We fully endorse the Mountaineering Scotland winter safety message and would encourage hill-goers to ensure that they have left details of their intended route and expected return time."
He added: “Remember mountain rescue in Scotland is provided free by world class volunteers on call at all times and in all weathers.
"If you require assistance on the hills, dial 999 ask for police then mountain rescue.”
