Can You Hike the Munros of Scotland in the Wet Weather? Expert Tips for Baggers

Scotland is known for its fantastic outdoor adventures. The majestic Munros of Scotland are a dream destination for outdoor enthusiasts, but the weather is definitely going to be wet at some point. However, most of the beautiful places that Scotland can offer are definitely off the beaten track. They are hidden away, like a secret picnic for the few who go to the wilderness to find raw natural beauty.

So, is it still possible to climb the Munros of Scotland when it starts raining? The answer is definitely yes, if you have all the necessary equipment and are suitably dressed. Hiking the Munros in wet weather calls for an intelligent strategy, carrying the appropriate equipment, and being adaptable in the mind, but it can also provide a moody experience that bright and sunny walks just can't match. Here is all you need to be informed about wet weather walking in Scotland, regardless of the weather conditions thrown at you!

Why Is Scottish Weather So Unpredictable?

One can hike in Scotland almost throughout the year without problems, though in the case of some of the higher peaks in winter, specialist gear might be necessary. 

Still, Scottish weather will definitely give you uniquely different experiences. No two days are equal. You could have the perfect day for a walk after the sky was clear and blue on one day. 

To complicate the matter further, the weather after your hike might have been entirely different from the weather when you began. It is quite typical to have all the different weathers like sun, rain, snow, and fog in a single day.

Why Rainy Day Hikes Are More Exciting Than You Think

There are various benefits to trekking in wet weather that you would not expect:

Enjoy Empty Trails

The majority of people wouldn't go for a walk in the rain even if it was definitely going to make them happy without them knowing. Munro bagging in the rain can offer you a great experience of tranquillity and also make you feel like a part of nature.

Experience Moody Scottish Views

Rain is likely to come, and fog moves in with gentle swirls around mountains and cliffs. It is not exactly the same, but the charm of the moody side of Scotland, which is one of the highest satisfactions for the hikers and photographers, is still there.

Essential Gear for Wet Weather Hiking

When it comes to hiking gear, we prefer to buy the best you can afford and take care of it to ensure it lasts as long as possible. 

• Quality Clothes: Buying good quality clothes is also more environmentally friendly than constantly changing your wardrobe.
  
  
• Hiking Boots: This is a must-have gear that you can't skip. These boots protect you from the most unpredictable Scottish weather on the hills.
  
  
• Waterproof Jacket: A reliable waterproof jacket is necessary to protect you from the rain and ensure that you remain comfortable even during unexpected showers in Scotland.
  
  
• Other Essentials: Some additional wet-weather must-have items are a waterproof bag cover and dry bags for spare clothes. Also, bring gaiters and extra long tent pegs if the weather is going to be muddy or slippery.

5 Must-Know Facts for Hiking in Scotland's Wet Weather

Here are the top 5 things you need to know about wet weather walking in Scotland:

Don't Let the Weather Stop Your Adventure

This is Scotland, so let's be honest! If you had been daunted by a weather forecast indicating rain, you would have still been in your bedroom. Therefore, you should take a coat, put on your walking boots, and enjoy the outdoors.

The mountains in Scotland are not always the best places to get a nice view; generally, you will find yourself surrounded by clouds. On the other hand, the mist-covered mountains are enchanting, and there is no better feeling than when the clouds that were obscuring the views for half of your hike suddenly lift.

But Stay Smart on the Trail

Scottish weather should not be the reason for you getting disappointed. However, you still need to be careful and not take any unnecessary risks. Walking in wet weather is definitely acceptable, but going in a thunderstorm with strong winds is not good. 

The mountains and Munros of Scotland are known for their remoteness and unpredictable weather. Although they are great for trying new things, it is definitely not the right place to go beyond your abilities if it is not safe. So, please be careful!

Packing Smart for Any Weather or Terrain

The weather in Scotland is rather changeable. Near the top of the mountains, the weather can vary significantly in most places. The uncertain weather can give you a wonderful snow shower in May, or it can just as well cover you with such a cold fog that the summit will be barely visible. The hike of Ben Vorlich in June can begin with applying sunscreen and finish with sliding down the slopes as the fog comes down, hurrying to set up the camping rain shelter and get in just before the downpour of rain.

My point is, you can't predict Scotland's weather. It just doesn't work. So pack for all eventualities. Even if it seems sunny in the morning, don't forget to take a jumper and a rain jacket with you. As the saying goes, “If you don't like the weather in Scotland, wait for ten minutes.”

Keep a Positive Mindset on the Trail

This is a very important part for everyone who has completed a wet-weather hike in Scotland. Hiking is definitely not all about fitness, even though it certainly contributes to it. Just a little rain should not be a reason for you to feel down. Identify your motivation and use it during your hike. For example, it might be having a cheerful friend or a partner with you!

Attitude is what separates an adventure from misery!

Picking the Right Gear

Improper weather doesn't exist; only inappropriate clothing does. It could be an extreme combination of weather in Scotland: sunshine, hail, snow, rain, and blustering winds of all these occurring within just a few hours. If you are planning to hike in Scotland, you must definitely have the proper outdoor gear.

Munro Bagger is the best place to get camping and hiking equipment of good quality, which can greatly affect the success of a hike: the things you carry on a hike can turn it into a really good experience or a bad one. Moreover, the best gear for wet-weather hiking in Scotland should be lightweight, waterproof, and breathable!

The Bottom Line

Hiking the Munros of Scotland in wet weather could be tough, but with appropriate preparation and the right attitude, it’s a journey that you’ll definitely love. Keeping dry, secure, and comfortable is essential while exploring Scotland’s beautiful scenery, whether it’s raining or sunny. 

At Munro Bagger, we’ve got your back by providing the best camping equipment online in the UK, enabling you to go after the Munros with full confidence regardless of the weather. Get equipped and set off for your next journey!

FAQs

What are good camping activities?

Here are some of the good camping activities:

• Riding bikes.
• Hiking designated trails.
• Photographing nature.
• Geocaching
• Enjoying the playground
• Searching for various plants, birds, and animals.

Why are Munros called Ben?

So Beinn is Gaelic for "mountain." So Ben just means mountain, and if it is over a certain

Height, then it is known as a Munro.

Which Munro is only accessible by train?

The Corrour Munros are widely known as the only Munros that can be accessed only by train. However, it is still true that the train is definitely the most convenient means of transportation to get to Sgor Gaibhrem, Carn Dearg, and Beinn na Lap, three of the 282 Munros in Scotland, mountains over 914 m (3000 ft). 

What are the rules for Munros?

All hills over 3000 ft with a minimum of 500 ft drop in every direction are considered to be new Munros. Thus, the climb, no matter which direction you go from, is 500 ft or more. Additionally, other mountains are considered to be definitely removed in terms of distance or difficulty, with less than 500ft of climb included.