Walkers and climbers prepare for return to the hills

Mountaineering Scotland has welcomed the lifting of the five-mile travel limit for recreation, which will mean the majority of regular hill walkers and climbers will be able to return to the Scottish hills for the first time since lockdown started.

Although the weather forecast predicts rain for the weekend, climbers and walkers from all over Scotland are expected to take advantage of the relaxation.

Stuart Younie, CEO of Mountaineering Scotland, said: “The lifting of the travel restriction is great news for Mountaineering Scotland members and hill walkers and climbers across Scotland, most of whom have been unable to access the hills and mountains during the last three months.

“We urge anyone heading to the hills to plan ahead, and to enjoy their activities safely and responsibly whilst continuing to protect themselves and the communities they may be visiting.  

“Remember to stay ‘COVID aware’ – the virus is still out there and we cannot yet return to normal, so we should all be aware of physical distancing and hand hygiene, and be sensible in our ambitions for the moment.”

From Friday July 3, people – with the exception of those in Dumfries and Galloway – will be able to travel any distance for leisure and recreation, and will be able to stay overnight in self-catering accommodation or caravans where there are no shared facilities.

However to help manage visitor numbers over the next couple of weeks the Scottish Government is asking those who want to camp in tents in the wild to wait until the 15^th of July.