Writers with a feeling for mountains and mountaineers are being sought by Mountaineering Scotland for its annual literary competition. The Mountaineering Scotland Writing Competition 2017 is looking for the best in new mountain writing, whether fact or fiction, prose or poetry. And, with more and more people taking art in outdoor activities, there should be no shortage of climbers and walkers ready to put their experiences into words and share what makes mountains, or the act of walking or climbing so special to them. Entries should have some connection with mountains and mountaineering, rock or ice climbing, walking or ski-mountaineering,…

The organisers of this year’s Cowal-based walking and outdoor festival have announced it will run from Friday 6th October to Sunday 15th October. The Festival will feature more than thirty walks graded from gentle strolls to challenging day trails. CowalFest organisers say that the walks, which are facilitated by knowledgeable volunteers and take place amid the stunning scenery, are a perfect introduction to this often-overlooked area of Scotland. This year’s CowalFest will include walks aimed at those interested in wildlife or photography, families will be well catered for and evening events will include a ceilidh. A special feature this year…

A team of volunteers and staff from the Friends of Nevis, John Muir Trust and Nevis Landscape Partnership have taken part in a triple path maintenance and clean-up operation that have taken place over the past few weeks on each of the highest peaks in Scotland, England and Wales. The work parties were held to celebrate the Three Peaks Partnership, run by the organisations that  manage Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon. The Partnership  provides information and advice to those undertaking the Three Peaks Challenge. Every year, 30-40,000 people seek to complete the Challenge by reaching the three summits in a…

Mountaineering Scotland and Scottish Mountain Rescue have joined forces to alert hill goers to the hazards that hang around even after warmth returns to the hills. With the Easter break already here for some, and just around the corner for others, many more people are looking forward to spending time in the mountains. Conditions are generally good, with a milder than normal winter meaning many paths are already clear of the winter’s snow. But mountaineering experts are reminding people that winter is still capable of biting well into spring. Icy snow, sudden changes in weather, and general fitness can all…