Access to hills remains despite new COVID restrictions

Following yesterday’s announcement by the First Minister about additional Covid-19 restrictions Mountaineering Scotland was pleased to note that there is no change in the guidance for outdoor activities such as hill walking and climbing.

The latest guidance for hill-walking and climbing can be found here.

At the moment the new restrictions are focused on the avoidance of different households meeting indoors, limited opening hours for the hospitality sector and advice against car sharing. This means we can continue to travel to access the hills and mountains regardless of where we live, but with the possibility of further measures to tackle the pandemic, Mountaineering Scotland has written to the First Minister.

While underlining our commitment to playing our part in addressing the risks, we have drawn attention to the recognition by the Scottish Government and Public Health Scotland that outdoor activities present a relatively low risk of transmission. And we have underlined the importance of outdoor recreation for people from all over Scotland, asking for assurances that this will not be restricted by limits on travel.

The complete letter to the First Minister can be read here.

Stuart Younie, CEO of Mountaineering Scotland, said: “In facing this second wave of the virus we understand the government is facing some difficult decisions to suppress transmission and protect public health. Mountaineering Scotland will continue to play our part and we hope that the relatively low risk of transmission outdoors and also the responsible approach we have taken to date means we can avoid any future restrictions on travel for leisure and recreation.   As we all adjust to these latest changes, it’s more important than ever that our members, and people across Scotland can continue to enjoy the freedom of the outdoors and the physical and mental health benefits it brings.”