Monday 1st December 2025, 8:30am
The 2025 ThinkWINTER campaign focusses on planning and preparation as the key to enjoying Scotland’s hills and mountains this winter.
As winter returns to Scotland’s majestic mountains, mountain safety organisations have launched the annual joint ThinkWINTER campaign, reminding outdoor enthusiasts that mountain conditions can change rapidly — and planning and preparation is key to having winter adventures and coming home safe.
Whether you're hiking, climbing, running, mountain biking or ski touring, ThinkWINTER encourages everyone heading into the hills to check the mountain weather and avalanche forecasts, have appropriate clothing and footwear, carry the necessary equipment, and ensure they have the skills and experience to cope with what can be very variable winter conditions.
“Winter in the Scottish mountains is breathtaking, but it can also be very challenging and demands respect,” said Ross Cadie, Senior Mountain Safety Advisor at Mountaineering Scotland. “We want people to enjoy winter in the outdoors safely and responsibly. ThinkWINTER is about inspiring adventure while encouraging planning and preparation.”
Mike Reading, Senior Operational Meteorologist at the Met Office, reinforces this message: “Weather conditions in the mountains can change rapidly, sometimes within minutes, and vary dramatically from the glen to the higher slopes and summits. Checking the mountain forecast before you set off can make all the difference between a safe, enjoyable outing and a potentially dangerous situation.”
The ThinkWINTER campaign is a collaboration between some of Scotland’s key mountain safety and outdoor sports organisations which form the Mountain Safety Group for Scotland. The winter-long campaign includes information, guidance, safety tips, and real-life stories to help people make informed decisions before heading out into the hills this winter. Visit the campaign landing page to learn more.
Stay safe. Stay smart. ThinkWINTER.
© 02/1 Mountaineering Scotland
ClimbScotland is a registered trademark of the Mountaineering Council of Scotland Limited
Mountaineering Scotland is a registered trademark of the Mountaineering Council of Scotland Limited
