Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park - Welcome

Winter Safety Information

Winter is a beautiful time to enjoy Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park and to make sure you enjoy a safe visit, there are a number of organisations offering advice to anyone hill walking, mountain climbing or just simply enjoying the great outdoors.
 

Ice Safety

Avoid stepping on or around any frozen body of water including rivers and lochs. There is no way of telling how strong the ice is and you are putting yourself and others in danger. Strathclyde Fire & Rescue service have issued a winter warning for animal owners advising dog owners to take extreme caution when exercising their pet.
 

Hill Walking and Mountain Climbing

Bill Rose from the Killin Mountain Rescue Team gives the following advice to people seeking to enjoy Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park:
  • Tell someone when you are leaving, when and where you are walking and when you plan to return
  • Check the weather forecast before you leave and research the route
  • Stay within your limitations and go with someone experienced
  • Make sure you spend time learning how to use your equipment
  • Make sure you are equipped with a GPS unit
  • If the weather turns, lose height immediately and retreat
  • Always take a map and compass & make sure you know how to use them
  • Crampons and an ice axe are essential in the winter
  • Be warned that if the temperature increases so does the risk of avalanche
  • Make sure your mobile phone is kept somewhere warm and is fully charged
  • Turn your phone off and switch on only when required to save the battery
  • If you get into difficulty, contact the Police who will inform the local Mountain Rescue Team
For more advice including a winter check list visit the Mountaineering Council of Scotland website.
 

Driving in Snowy and Icy Conditions

The BBC has issued advice on how to prepare your car for winter driving if you have to make a journey and what to do should you be caught out in bad weather.

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