Mountain Aid is returning with another Skills for the Hills Day to be held at Stirling University on 7 March.
The day will bring together hillwalkers, climbers, and outdoor organisations for a full programme of inspiring talks, practical sessions, and outdoor activities. Learn first aid, watch a demonstration of search and rescue dogs, learn about navigation and mountain weather.
“Skills for the Hills is about equipping people with knowledge while celebrating the fantastic community that supports outdoor recreation in Scotland,” said a spokesperson for Mountain Aid.
“With expert talks, practical workshops, search and rescue dog demonstrations, and exhibitor stands, the event brings together an engaging and enjoyable programme for all who love the outdoors.”
The event will feature the following six expert-led presentations as well as demonstrations from Mountain Rescue Teams and search and rescue dogs, a map-reading challenge and an exhibition area.
- Lorraine’s Ups n’ Doons – Long-distance walker Lorraine McCall shares stories and insights
from her remarkable journeys, including her 221 Corbetts and 231 Grahams continuous
rounds.
- First to Aid: Easy as ABC – The Ochils Mountain Rescue Team offers an accessible and
engaging session on essential outdoor first aid. - Behind the Scenes of Mountain Rescue – Police Scotland (Tayside) Mountain Rescue Team
provide a unique look into the people, challenges, and teamwork behind their operations. - Your Rights and Responsibilities When Accessing the Hills – ScotWays explains Scotland’s
access laws and what they mean for responsible outdoor recreation. - Navigation: The Compass and Beyond — A Modern Toolkit – Mountaineering Scotland
explores both traditional and digital navigation techniques for confident route-finding. - Inversion Hunting – The Mountain Weather Information Service reveals how to forecast and
find those sought-after spectacular temperature inversions.
The Skills for the Hills Day is on 7 March 2026 at the Pathfoot Building at the University of Stirling, doors will open at 10am and the event is free.