The Environment

The Mountain Environment

The Munros and the environment around them are not only an ideal place for recreation but also provide means of employment vital to the rural economy. The information on this page highlights the main points of which you should be aware.

In general, good conduct is well defined by the Country Code which states:

Enjoy the countryside and respect its life and work
Guard against all risks of fire
Fasten all gates
Keep dogs under close control
Keep to paths across farmland
Use gates and a stile to cross fences, hedges and walls
Leave livestock, crops and machinery alone
Help to keep all water clean
Protect wildlife, wild plants and trees
Go carefully on country roads
Make no unnecessary noise
Take your litter home

Highland Workers

The Estates, which manage the mountains and Glens rent the land to farmers and employ Shepherds, Gamekeepers and Stalkers. Have respect for these workers and in the shooting seasons gain permission to access climbs. Notices are normally placed on the access routes to warn when shooting will occur. However, on the most popular climbs it is normally sufficient to stay on the traditional paths as the deer avoid these well-trodden areas. Any land owned by National Trust for Scotland is protected and you can walk freely at any time of the year.

Main Seasons

Grouse shooting: Starts 12 August, Warning notices are normally posted on access routes.
Deer stalking and culling: The essential control of deer numbers is performed from September to February. Do not climb where shooting is to occur as you will disturb the herds and put yourself at risk.
Lambing: March to May. Do not walk through flocks during lambing as you will separate the lambs from their mothers. Never walk between a shepherd, his dogs and his flock as you will undo many hours of hard work bringing the flock together.

Highland Access

Private roads are costly to maintain and they should not be driven without permission. Do not restrict access when parking your car. Most landowners do not object to responsible cyclists, e.g. do not travel downhill at high speeds as it frightens livestock (and walkers!).

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