A fine day on Braeriach: dry, with light winds and clear tops for most of the day.
Wind
On the summit expect light winds of up to 15 mph, mainly north-easterly, with gusts of 10–20 mph at the windiest.
Cloud and visibility
The tops are likely to stay mostly clear of cloud, though brief patches cannot be ruled out. The air should be clear, so expect far-reaching views as long as the tops stay clear.
Rain and ground
It should stay dry.
Warmth and kit
On the tops it will be around -4 to 0°C, feeling like -8 to -4°C in the wind. The freezing level is close to summit height. Take a hat, gloves, a windproof and a spare warm layer.
Daylight
A short day, with only about 8 hours of daylight. Sunset is around 4:10pm, so allow time to get off the hill before dark, and carry a head torch.
Sunshine context Model-grid estimate, not summit sunshine
The surrounding model grid indicates 5 h of sunshine. This is not a forecast of time in sunshine on the summit. Use the cloud and views outlook above for the conditions on this mountain.
Morning · 08:00–12:00
ExcellentSummit winds around 0-10 mph. Gusts around 5-15 mph are possible on exposed ground.
90
Afternoon · 12:00–17:00
ExcellentSummit winds around 0-15 mph. Gusts around 10-20 mph are possible on exposed ground.
89
Compare an early start with later conditions. The main forecast above covers the day in more detail.
Overnight · 17:00–08:00Wild campingBetaA mixed night to camp, mainly because of damp air: a frost, down to -3°C.49Poor · 600 mView detailsHide details
Night beginning Tuesday 10 November 2026
Full overnight outlook
A mixed night to camp, mainly because of damp air. Gusts reach about 25 mph on open ground, so peg out well and use the guylines. Look for shelter from the north. Dry to pitch, then a little rain overnight, easing by morning, though the tent may still be wet. Above about 600 m you'd likely be in cloud for part of the night: damp, and hard to find your way if you need to move. The air is damp at every height we checked (300-900 m), so expect heavy condensation. Leave the vents open. A frost at every height we checked (300-900 m), down to about -3°C. A warm 3-season or 3–4 season bag rated to about -4°C comfort, and a warm mat, should do. Allow more if you sleep cold.
Warmth planning: As a broad starting point, consider a warm 3-season or 3–4 season bag with an ISO/EN comfort rating at or below about -4°C. Allow more margin if you sleep cold or expect fatigue, and use an adequate insulated mat. Dampness is possible, so keep the sleep system dry and ensure its insulation remains effective if damp.
Poor conditions for exposed scrambling. The rock should be mostly dry, though drainage lines and shaded holds may still be damp. Snow is likely on the rock and ledges, so it becomes a winter route. The rock around the summit is mostly granite, a coarse, crystalline rock. It has excellent friction when dry and clean and is fair when wet, but greasy where there is lichen or moss. It is generally solid, but weathers into rounded slabs and blocks, and loose granite grit on slabs can roll underfoot like ball bearings. These are general notes for each rock type, taken from geological maps around the summit, so the rock on your line may differ.
Rock surfaceProbably dryPeak gust10-20 mphRain0.0 mm
Main concernSnow is likely to be lying on high ground. Scrambling may require winter mountaineering skills and equipment
Representative rock around the summit and along available routes
Biotite graniteCairngorm Pluton, Phase 2
Origin
Igneous
Broad rock-response group
Granite, gneiss or gabbro
Mapping
BGS Geology 50K · 1:50,000
Summit area
Granite, gneiss or gabbro in 100% of 17 BGS samples within 350 m
Granite is a coarse, crystalline rock. It has excellent friction when dry and clean and is fair when wet, but greasy where there is lichen or moss. It is generally solid, but weathers into rounded slabs and blocks, and loose granite grit on slabs can roll underfoot like ball bearings. These are general notes for each rock type, from geological map samples at and around the summit. The rock on your line can differ, and lichen, vegetation and seepage all change how it feels underfoot.
Rock groups along the sampled routes
These are mapped rock groups, not separate weather forecasts or a ranking of route safety.
Braeriach
granite, gneiss or gabbro
The Devil's Point, Cairn Toul, Sgòr an Lochain Uaine and Braeriach
granite, gneiss or gabbro
Geological detail and BGS records
Mapped variation
2 rock types appear in the mapped samples
Samples around the summit inform the main rock-response profile, with the summit pin shown separately where it differs. Route samples add further context, but this is not a continuous geological survey.
Summit-area sample
Biotite graniteCairngorm Pluton, Phase 2669–1,291 m samplesSeen on Braeriach, The Devil's Point, Cairn Toul, Sgòr an Lochain Uaine and Braeriach
Granite is a coarse, crystalline rock. It has excellent friction when dry and clean and is fair when wet, but greasy where there is lichen or moss. It is generally solid, but weathers into rounded slabs and blocks, and loose granite grit on slabs can roll underfoot like ball bearings.
BGS record →
Route sample
Aplitic-porphyritic micrograniteCairngorm Pluton, Phase 4978–1,166 m samplesSeen on Braeriach, The Devil's Point, Cairn Toul, Sgòr an Lochain Uaine and Braeriach
Granite is a coarse, crystalline rock. It has excellent friction when dry and clean and is fair when wet, but greasy where there is lichen or moss. It is generally solid, but weathers into rounded slabs and blocks, and loose granite grit on slabs can roll underfoot like ball bearings.
Did this match your experience?Tell us about the rock surface and wind to help improve this beta forecast.Give feedback →
Overnight · Aurora, stars & meteorsAfter darkBetaSome forecasts show clear spells, others keep it cloudy; check again nearer the time.View forecastClose forecast
After dark: aurora and stargazing
Night beginning 2026-11-10. All times are UK local time.
Using the last available sky forecast, updated at 01:26 GMT on 10 Nov. Cloud conditions may have changed. Live aurora guidance is temporarily unavailable.
Stargazing
Poor sky conditions during the best available spell: 11 Nov, 04:00 GMT to 05:00 GMT.
Some forecasts show clear spells, others keep it cloudy; check again nearer the time.
Moon-free dark sky: 10 Nov, 18:25 GMT to 11 Nov, 05:35 GMT.
Sky conditions through the night
Fully dark periods. Conditions can change between forecast hours.
Time
Viewing conditions
10 Nov, 18:25 GMT to 19:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Hazy, which dims the fainter stars.
10 Nov, 19:00 GMT to 20:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Hazy, which dims the fainter stars.
10 Nov, 20:00 GMT to 21:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Hazy, which dims the fainter stars.
10 Nov, 21:00 GMT to 22:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Hazy, which dims the fainter stars.
10 Nov, 22:00 GMT to 23:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Hazy, which dims the fainter stars.
10 Nov, 23:00 GMT to 11 Nov, 00:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Hazy, which dims the fainter stars.
11 Nov, 00:00 GMT to 01:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Hazy, which dims the fainter stars.
11 Nov, 01:00 GMT to 02:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Some forecasts show clear spells, others keep it cloudy; check again nearer the time.
Forecast models disagree.
11 Nov, 02:00 GMT to 03:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars.
11 Nov, 03:00 GMT to 04:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars.
11 Nov, 04:00 GMT to 05:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Some forecasts show clear spells, others keep it cloudy; check again nearer the time.
Forecast models disagree.
11 Nov, 05:00 GMT to 05:35 GMT
Mixed sky conditions
Some forecasts show clear spells, others keep it cloudy; check again nearer the time.
Forecast models disagree.
Moon, darkness and meteor showers
Near-new moon, about 3% illuminated.
Full darkness: 10 Nov, 18:25 GMT to 11 Nov, 05:35 GMT.
Moon times assume an open horizon. Hills can hide the Moon sooner. Moon-free does not mean cloud-free.
Southern Taurids are active on this night. Activity may be much lower away from the peak.
Northern Taurids are active on this night. Activity may be much lower away from the peak.
Leonids are active on this night. Activity may be much lower away from the peak.
Southern Taurids: peak around 10 October 2026.
Northern Taurids: peak around 12 November 2026.
Leonids: peak around 18 November 2026.
Geminids: peak around 14 December 2026.
Ursids: peak around 22 December 2026.
Dates from the Royal Observatory Greenwich. Activity dates do not guarantee visible meteors. Look across a broad, dark sky, not only north.
Darkness of the surroundings
Estimated darkness rank 334 of 980 assessed peaks (1 is darkest), based on surrounding artificial light in 2021. This is not a measurement of tonight’s sky.
2021 artificial-light baseline, not measured sky brightness or a Bortle class. Changes to lighting, blue-rich LEDs, terrain screening, atmospheric scattering and cloud-reflected light are not resolved. Similar ranks are not meaningfully distinct. Darkness is not a recommendation to climb a summit at night.
VIIRS nighttime lights: Earth Observation Group, Payne Institute for Public Policy, Colorado School of Mines. Reprocessed by OpenGeoHub/OpenLandMap. Cropped and ranked by Mountain Weather.
Sky-weather grades exclude light pollution, terrain and thin haze. They are not mountain safety ratings. Check the mountain and camping forecast separately. Accessible lower viewpoints may be a better choice than summits.
Recommended kit for this dayWeather-aware packing prompts, plus your core hillwalking kitView kit
For a day hillwalk, not a complete route-specific checklist. Carry navigation and backup you can use, warm and waterproof layers, suitable footwear, food and water, a headtorch, emergency shelter, first aid and a way to call for help. Snow, ice, technical terrain and overnight trips need additional equipment and skills.
Does the weather shape your plans?Optional hill-user research. One answer helps; further questions are up to you.Take part
Help the Mountain Decisions Project understand how forecasts influence hill days, including when plans stay the same. Findings will be shared publicly as summaries, not individual responses.
This is about Braeriach on Tuesday 10 November 2026. It asks about intentions, not whether you actually went out. No name or account is needed.
Summit wind · 08:00-17:0010-30 mph northwesterlySummit gusts · 08:00-17:0025-35 mphFeels like-14 to -10°CPrecipitationUp to around 2 mmCloud-free summit estimate65%Cloud base through day400-1,800 mFreezing level500-800 mDaylightSunrise 07:47 · Sunset 16:09 · 8.4 hours daylight
The day on the hill
A mixed day on Braeriach, with snow on the tops and a bitter wind chill.
Snow and navigation
Snow is forecast on the tops in the afternoon. The air freezing level is roughly 700 to 900 m above sea level. Snow can fall below this, but its lower limit is uncertain. The forecast model suggests less than 1 cm of fresh snowfall at around 1300 m between 08:00 and 17:00 (local time). The amount settling is uncertain and will vary with melting and drifting. Blowing snow may quickly cover paths and footprints and make navigation difficult. Snow may collect in deeper drifts in hollows, behind boulders and on slopes sheltered from the wind. Exposed ground may be scoured while nearby drifts deepen. Wind-loaded slopes can also be avalanche terrain. Check the local avalanche forecast where one is available; this is not an assessment of slope stability.
Wind
On the summit expect a north-westerly wind of around 10–20 mph first thing, rising to 20–30 mph by midday, with gusts of 25–35 mph at the windiest. Lower down on the open hillside it will be more like 5–15 mph. Gusts like that will be noticeable on ridges and open tops, and you will chill quickly when you stop.
Cloud and visibility
Any early cloud on the tops should clear soon after dawn. The cloud base could be as low as 400–700 m mid-morning. Good spells of sunshine are likely. The air should be clear, so expect far-reaching views whenever the tops come out of the cloud.
Rain and ground
Snow arrives mid-afternoon. Some forecast models keep it drier later on.
Warmth and kit
On the tops it will be around -8 to -4°C, feeling like -14 to -10°C in the wind. The freezing level is around 600–900 m, so it will be below freezing on the tops. Hat, gloves and a warm insulated layer are essential, with extra warmth for stops. Pack waterproofs too, and keep a warm layer dry in your pack.
Daylight
A short day, with only about 8 hours of daylight. Sunset is around 4:10pm, so allow time to get off the hill before dark, and carry a head torch.
Forecast confidence
Cloud height is hard to pin down, so the summit could be in or out of cloud at short notice. Some of the detail could still change, so have a last look at the forecast in the morning before you set off.
Sunshine context Model-grid estimate, not summit sunshine
The surrounding model grid indicates 5.8 h of sunshine. This is not a forecast of time in sunshine on the summit. Use the cloud and views outlook above for the conditions on this mountain.
Morning · 08:00–12:00
GoodSummit winds around 10-20 mph. Gusts around 20-30 mph are possible on exposed ground. Summit cloud is more persistent early in this period, with better prospects later.
71
Afternoon · 12:00–17:00
MixedWinds strengthen compared with the morning. Summit winds around 20-30 mph. Gusts around 25-35 mph are possible on exposed ground. Rain is forecast during this period.
58
Compare an early start with later conditions. The main forecast above covers the day in more detail.
Overnight · 17:00–08:00Wild campingBetaToo windy for an exposed pitch above about 600 m (gusts of about 50 mph and a frost, down to -5°C). Lower down, a poor night to camp on open ground.19Poor · 600 mView detailsHide details
Night beginning Wednesday 11 November 2026
Full overnight outlook
Too windy for an exposed pitch above about 600 m. Lower down, a poor night to camp on open ground. Gusts reach about 50 mph around 900 m and nearer 35 mph around 300 m, enough to damage a tent on open ground. Pitch low down and in real shelter, or leave it for another night. Expect some light rain, mostly early on, so you'll likely pitch in the rain. A frost at every height we checked (300-900 m), down to about -5°C. A 4-season bag rated to about -6°C comfort, and a warm mat, should do. Allow more if you sleep cold.
Warmth planning: As a broad starting point, consider a 4-season bag with an ISO/EN comfort rating at or below about -6°C. Allow more margin if you sleep cold or expect fatigue, and use an adequate insulated mat. Dampness is possible, so keep the sleep system dry and ensure its insulation remains effective if damp.
Very poor conditions for exposed scrambling. The rock is likely to be wet and slippery through the day. Icy patches are likely on the rock, which makes it treacherous without winter kit. Gusts of 25–35 mph could throw you off balance on exposed moves and ridges. Cloud on the tops may make route-finding and retreat harder. The rock around the summit is mostly granite, a coarse, crystalline rock. It has excellent friction when dry and clean and is fair when wet, but greasy where there is lichen or moss. It is generally solid, but weathers into rounded slabs and blocks, and loose granite grit on slabs can roll underfoot like ball bearings. These are general notes for each rock type, taken from geological maps around the summit, so the rock on your line may differ.
Rock surfaceWet rock likelyPeak gust25-35 mphRain1.3 mm
Main factorsgusts of 25–35 mphwet rock likelySnow is likely to be lying on high ground, with further snowfall possible during the day
Representative rock around the summit and along available routes
Biotite graniteCairngorm Pluton, Phase 2
Origin
Igneous
Broad rock-response group
Granite, gneiss or gabbro
Mapping
BGS Geology 50K · 1:50,000
Summit area
Granite, gneiss or gabbro in 100% of 17 BGS samples within 350 m
Granite is a coarse, crystalline rock. It has excellent friction when dry and clean and is fair when wet, but greasy where there is lichen or moss. It is generally solid, but weathers into rounded slabs and blocks, and loose granite grit on slabs can roll underfoot like ball bearings. These are general notes for each rock type, from geological map samples at and around the summit. The rock on your line can differ, and lichen, vegetation and seepage all change how it feels underfoot.
Rock groups along the sampled routes
These are mapped rock groups, not separate weather forecasts or a ranking of route safety.
Braeriach
granite, gneiss or gabbro
The Devil's Point, Cairn Toul, Sgòr an Lochain Uaine and Braeriach
granite, gneiss or gabbro
Geological detail and BGS records
Mapped variation
2 rock types appear in the mapped samples
Samples around the summit inform the main rock-response profile, with the summit pin shown separately where it differs. Route samples add further context, but this is not a continuous geological survey.
Summit-area sample
Biotite graniteCairngorm Pluton, Phase 2669–1,291 m samplesSeen on Braeriach, The Devil's Point, Cairn Toul, Sgòr an Lochain Uaine and Braeriach
Granite is a coarse, crystalline rock. It has excellent friction when dry and clean and is fair when wet, but greasy where there is lichen or moss. It is generally solid, but weathers into rounded slabs and blocks, and loose granite grit on slabs can roll underfoot like ball bearings.
BGS record →
Route sample
Aplitic-porphyritic micrograniteCairngorm Pluton, Phase 4978–1,166 m samplesSeen on Braeriach, The Devil's Point, Cairn Toul, Sgòr an Lochain Uaine and Braeriach
Granite is a coarse, crystalline rock. It has excellent friction when dry and clean and is fair when wet, but greasy where there is lichen or moss. It is generally solid, but weathers into rounded slabs and blocks, and loose granite grit on slabs can roll underfoot like ball bearings.
Did this match your experience?Tell us about the rock surface and wind to help improve this beta forecast.Give feedback →
Overnight · Aurora, stars & meteorsAfter darkBetaSome forecasts show clear spells, others keep it cloudy; check again nearer the time.View forecastClose forecast
After dark: aurora and stargazing
Night beginning 2026-11-11. All times are UK local time.
Using the last available sky forecast, updated at 01:26 GMT on 10 Nov. Cloud conditions may have changed. Live aurora guidance is temporarily unavailable.
Stargazing
Poor sky conditions during the best available spell: 12 Nov, 02:00 GMT to 03:00 GMT.
Some forecasts show clear spells, others keep it cloudy; check again nearer the time.
Moon-free dark sky: 11 Nov, 18:25 GMT to 12 Nov, 05:35 GMT.
Sky conditions through the night
Fully dark periods. Conditions can change between forecast hours.
Time
Viewing conditions
11 Nov, 18:25 GMT to 19:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Rain at times. Hazy, which dims the fainter stars.
11 Nov, 19:00 GMT to 20:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Hazy, which dims the fainter stars.
11 Nov, 20:00 GMT to 21:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Rain at times. Hazy, which dims the fainter stars.
11 Nov, 21:00 GMT to 22:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Hazy, which dims the fainter stars.
11 Nov, 22:00 GMT to 23:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Rain at times.
11 Nov, 23:00 GMT to 12 Nov, 00:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Rain at times. Hazy, which dims the fainter stars.
12 Nov, 00:00 GMT to 01:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Hazy, which dims the fainter stars.
12 Nov, 01:00 GMT to 02:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Some forecasts show clear spells, others keep it cloudy; check again nearer the time.
Forecast models disagree.
12 Nov, 02:00 GMT to 03:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Some forecasts show clear spells, others keep it cloudy; check again nearer the time.
Forecast models disagree.
12 Nov, 03:00 GMT to 04:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars.
12 Nov, 04:00 GMT to 05:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars.
12 Nov, 05:00 GMT to 05:35 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars.
Moon, darkness and meteor showers
Crescent moon, about 7% illuminated.
Full darkness: 11 Nov, 18:25 GMT to 12 Nov, 05:35 GMT.
Moon times assume an open horizon. Hills can hide the Moon sooner. Moon-free does not mean cloud-free.
Southern Taurids are active on this night. Activity may be much lower away from the peak.
Northern Taurids are active on this night. Activity may be much lower away from the peak.
Leonids are active on this night. Activity may be much lower away from the peak.
Southern Taurids: peak around 10 October 2026.
Northern Taurids: peak around 12 November 2026.
Leonids: peak around 18 November 2026.
Geminids: peak around 14 December 2026.
Ursids: peak around 22 December 2026.
Dates from the Royal Observatory Greenwich. Activity dates do not guarantee visible meteors. Look across a broad, dark sky, not only north.
Darkness of the surroundings
Estimated darkness rank 334 of 980 assessed peaks (1 is darkest), based on surrounding artificial light in 2021. This is not a measurement of tonight’s sky.
2021 artificial-light baseline, not measured sky brightness or a Bortle class. Changes to lighting, blue-rich LEDs, terrain screening, atmospheric scattering and cloud-reflected light are not resolved. Similar ranks are not meaningfully distinct. Darkness is not a recommendation to climb a summit at night.
VIIRS nighttime lights: Earth Observation Group, Payne Institute for Public Policy, Colorado School of Mines. Reprocessed by OpenGeoHub/OpenLandMap. Cropped and ranked by Mountain Weather.
Sky-weather grades exclude light pollution, terrain and thin haze. They are not mountain safety ratings. Check the mountain and camping forecast separately. Accessible lower viewpoints may be a better choice than summits.
Recommended kit for this dayWeather-aware packing prompts, plus your core hillwalking kitView kit
For a day hillwalk, not a complete route-specific checklist. Carry navigation and backup you can use, warm and waterproof layers, suitable footwear, food and water, a headtorch, emergency shelter, first aid and a way to call for help. Snow, ice, technical terrain and overnight trips need additional equipment and skills.
Does the weather shape your plans?Optional hill-user research. One answer helps; further questions are up to you.Take part
Help the Mountain Decisions Project understand how forecasts influence hill days, including when plans stay the same. Findings will be shared publicly as summaries, not individual responses.
This is about Braeriach on Wednesday 11 November 2026. It asks about intentions, not whether you actually went out. No name or account is needed.
Summit wind · 08:00-17:0025-40 mph northwesterlySummit gusts · 08:00-17:0040-50 mphFeels like-18 to -14°CPrecipitationUp to around 2 mmCloud-free summit estimate85%Cloud base through day1,400-1,900 mFreezing level300-600 mDaylightSunrise 07:49 · Sunset 16:07 · 8.3 hours daylight
The day on the hill
A poor day on the tops of Braeriach, with snow on the tops and strong, gusty winds.
Snow and navigation
Snow is forecast on the tops during the morning and afternoon. The air freezing level is roughly 400 to 700 m above sea level. Snow can fall below this, but its lower limit is uncertain. The forecast model suggests less than 1 cm of fresh snowfall at around 1300 m between 08:00 and 17:00 (local time). The amount settling is uncertain and will vary with melting and drifting.
Wind
On the summit expect a north-westerly wind of 25–40 mph for most of the day, with gusts of 40–50 mph at the windiest. Lower down on the open hillside it will be more like 10–20 mph. Gusts like that are strong enough to knock you off balance, so take care near edges and on narrow ridges.
Cloud and visibility
The tops should stay mostly clear of cloud. A few forecast models bring the cloud base down to around 400–700 m at times. The cloud base sits close to summit height, so the top could go in and out of cloud at short notice. It will look largely cloudy overhead, but that cloud should mostly stay above the tops.
Rain and ground
Snow is possible on the tops.
Warmth and kit
On the tops it will be around -8 to -4°C, feeling like -18 to -14°C in the wind. The freezing level is around 400–700 m, so it will be below freezing on the tops. Hat, gloves and a warm insulated layer are essential, with extra warmth for stops. Pack waterproofs too, and keep a warm layer dry in your pack.
Daylight
A short day, with only about 8 hours of daylight. Sunset is around 4:05pm, so allow time to get off the hill before dark, and carry a head torch.
Forecast confidence
There is some disagreement between forecast models on wind strength. It's still two days off and could change, so check again nearer the time.
Sunshine context Model-grid estimate, not summit sunshine
The surrounding model grid indicates 6.4 h of sunshine. This is not a forecast of time in sunshine on the summit. Use the cloud and views outlook above for the conditions on this mountain.
Morning · 08:00–12:00
PoorSummit winds around 30-40 mph. Gusts around 40-50 mph are possible on exposed ground. Gusts this strong can knock you off balance, so take care near edges and on narrow ridges.
40
Afternoon · 12:00–17:00
PoorSummit winds around 25-35 mph. Gusts around 35-45 mph are possible on exposed ground. Gusts this strong can make walking into it hard work, with buffeting on ridges and edges. Rain is forecast during this period.
32
Compare an early start with later conditions. The main forecast above covers the day in more detail.
Overnight · 17:00–08:00Wild campingBetaToo windy for an exposed pitch up around 900 m (gusts of about 45 mph and a frost, down to -3°C). Lower down, a poor night to camp on open ground.39Poor · 600 mView detailsHide details
Night beginning Thursday 12 November 2026
Full overnight outlook
Too windy for an exposed pitch up around 900 m. Lower down, a poor night to camp on open ground. Gusts reach about 45 mph around 900 m and nearer 30 mph around 300 m, which makes for a noisy, testing night even in a good tent. Pitch low down and in real shelter, or leave it for another night. Dry to pitch, then a little rain overnight, easing by morning, though the tent may still be wet. A frost at every height we checked (300-900 m), down to about -3°C. A warm 3-season or 3–4 season bag rated to about -4°C comfort, and a warm mat, should do. Allow more if you sleep cold.
Extensive cloud may limit moonlight. Illumination describes the sunlit part of the Moon, not brightness at your pitch.
Overnight window: 12 Nov, 17:00 GMT to 13 Nov, 08:00 GMT. Approximate open-horizon times; hills can hide the Moon. Still take a headtorch.
Elevation reference (open ground)
300 m39 · poor
Wind / gust
22 mph / 31 mph
Typical / low
-0.3°C / -0.8°C · much of the night
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
Low
600 m39 · poor
Wind / gust
27 mph / 38 mph
Typical / low
-0.6°C / -1.1°C · much of the night
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
Low
900 m19 · very poor
Wind / gust
31 mph / 44 mph
Typical / low
-2.6°C / -3.0°C · much of the night
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
Low
Warmth planning: As a broad starting point, consider a warm 3-season or 3–4 season bag with an ISO/EN comfort rating at or below about -4°C. Allow more margin if you sleep cold or expect fatigue, and use an adequate insulated mat. Dampness is possible, so keep the sleep system dry and ensure its insulation remains effective if damp.
Very poor conditions for exposed scrambling. The rock is likely to be wet and slippery through the day. Icy patches are likely on the rock, which makes it treacherous without winter kit. Gusts of 40–50 mph could throw you off balance on exposed moves and ridges. The rock around the summit is mostly granite, a coarse, crystalline rock. It has excellent friction when dry and clean and is fair when wet, but greasy where there is lichen or moss. It is generally solid, but weathers into rounded slabs and blocks, and loose granite grit on slabs can roll underfoot like ball bearings. These are general notes for each rock type, taken from geological maps around the summit, so the rock on your line may differ.
Rock surfaceWet rock likelyPeak gust40-50 mphRain0.7 mm
Main factorsgusts of 40–50 mphwet rock likelySnow is likely to be lying on high ground, with further snowfall possible during the day
Representative rock around the summit and along available routes
Biotite graniteCairngorm Pluton, Phase 2
Origin
Igneous
Broad rock-response group
Granite, gneiss or gabbro
Mapping
BGS Geology 50K · 1:50,000
Summit area
Granite, gneiss or gabbro in 100% of 17 BGS samples within 350 m
Granite is a coarse, crystalline rock. It has excellent friction when dry and clean and is fair when wet, but greasy where there is lichen or moss. It is generally solid, but weathers into rounded slabs and blocks, and loose granite grit on slabs can roll underfoot like ball bearings. These are general notes for each rock type, from geological map samples at and around the summit. The rock on your line can differ, and lichen, vegetation and seepage all change how it feels underfoot.
Rock groups along the sampled routes
These are mapped rock groups, not separate weather forecasts or a ranking of route safety.
Braeriach
granite, gneiss or gabbro
The Devil's Point, Cairn Toul, Sgòr an Lochain Uaine and Braeriach
granite, gneiss or gabbro
Geological detail and BGS records
Mapped variation
2 rock types appear in the mapped samples
Samples around the summit inform the main rock-response profile, with the summit pin shown separately where it differs. Route samples add further context, but this is not a continuous geological survey.
Summit-area sample
Biotite graniteCairngorm Pluton, Phase 2669–1,291 m samplesSeen on Braeriach, The Devil's Point, Cairn Toul, Sgòr an Lochain Uaine and Braeriach
Granite is a coarse, crystalline rock. It has excellent friction when dry and clean and is fair when wet, but greasy where there is lichen or moss. It is generally solid, but weathers into rounded slabs and blocks, and loose granite grit on slabs can roll underfoot like ball bearings.
BGS record →
Route sample
Aplitic-porphyritic micrograniteCairngorm Pluton, Phase 4978–1,166 m samplesSeen on Braeriach, The Devil's Point, Cairn Toul, Sgòr an Lochain Uaine and Braeriach
Granite is a coarse, crystalline rock. It has excellent friction when dry and clean and is fair when wet, but greasy where there is lichen or moss. It is generally solid, but weathers into rounded slabs and blocks, and loose granite grit on slabs can roll underfoot like ball bearings.
Did this match your experience?Tell us about the rock surface and wind to help improve this beta forecast.Give feedback →
Overnight · Aurora, stars & meteorsAfter darkBetaSome forecasts show clear spells, others keep it cloudy; check again nearer the time.View forecastClose forecast
After dark: aurora and stargazing
Night beginning 2026-11-12. All times are UK local time.
Using the last available sky forecast, updated at 01:26 GMT on 10 Nov. Cloud conditions may have changed. Live aurora guidance is temporarily unavailable.
Stargazing
Mixed sky conditions during the best available spell: 12 Nov, 20:00 GMT to 21:00 GMT.
Some forecasts show clear spells, others keep it cloudy; check again nearer the time.
Moon-free dark sky: 12 Nov, 18:20 GMT to 13 Nov, 05:35 GMT.
Sky conditions through the night
Fully dark periods. Conditions can change between forecast hours.
Time
Viewing conditions
12 Nov, 18:20 GMT to 19:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars.
12 Nov, 19:00 GMT to 20:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars.
12 Nov, 20:00 GMT to 21:00 GMT
Mixed sky conditions
Some forecasts show clear spells, others keep it cloudy; check again nearer the time.
Forecast models disagree.
12 Nov, 21:00 GMT to 22:00 GMT
Mixed sky conditions
Some forecasts show clear spells, others keep it cloudy; check again nearer the time.
Forecast models disagree.
12 Nov, 22:00 GMT to 23:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars.
12 Nov, 23:00 GMT to 13 Nov, 00:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Some forecasts show clear spells, others keep it cloudy; check again nearer the time.
Forecast models disagree.
13 Nov, 00:00 GMT to 01:00 GMT
Mixed sky conditions
Some forecasts show clear spells, others keep it cloudy; check again nearer the time.
Forecast models disagree.
13 Nov, 01:00 GMT to 02:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Some forecasts show clear spells, others keep it cloudy; check again nearer the time.
Forecast models disagree.
13 Nov, 02:00 GMT to 03:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars.
13 Nov, 03:00 GMT to 04:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars.
13 Nov, 04:00 GMT to 05:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars.
13 Nov, 05:00 GMT to 05:35 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars.
Moon, darkness and meteor showers
Crescent moon, about 13% illuminated.
Full darkness: 12 Nov, 18:20 GMT to 13 Nov, 05:35 GMT.
Moon times assume an open horizon. Hills can hide the Moon sooner. Moon-free does not mean cloud-free.
Southern Taurids are active on this night. Activity may be much lower away from the peak.
Northern Taurids are active on this night. Activity may be much lower away from the peak.
Leonids are active on this night. Activity may be much lower away from the peak.
Southern Taurids: peak around 10 October 2026.
Northern Taurids: peak around 12 November 2026.
Leonids: peak around 18 November 2026.
Geminids: peak around 14 December 2026.
Ursids: peak around 22 December 2026.
Dates from the Royal Observatory Greenwich. Activity dates do not guarantee visible meteors. Look across a broad, dark sky, not only north.
Darkness of the surroundings
Estimated darkness rank 334 of 980 assessed peaks (1 is darkest), based on surrounding artificial light in 2021. This is not a measurement of tonight’s sky.
2021 artificial-light baseline, not measured sky brightness or a Bortle class. Changes to lighting, blue-rich LEDs, terrain screening, atmospheric scattering and cloud-reflected light are not resolved. Similar ranks are not meaningfully distinct. Darkness is not a recommendation to climb a summit at night.
VIIRS nighttime lights: Earth Observation Group, Payne Institute for Public Policy, Colorado School of Mines. Reprocessed by OpenGeoHub/OpenLandMap. Cropped and ranked by Mountain Weather.
Sky-weather grades exclude light pollution, terrain and thin haze. They are not mountain safety ratings. Check the mountain and camping forecast separately. Accessible lower viewpoints may be a better choice than summits.
Recommended kit for this dayWeather-aware packing prompts, plus your core hillwalking kitView kit
For a day hillwalk, not a complete route-specific checklist. Carry navigation and backup you can use, warm and waterproof layers, suitable footwear, food and water, a headtorch, emergency shelter, first aid and a way to call for help. Snow, ice, technical terrain and overnight trips need additional equipment and skills.
Does the weather shape your plans?Optional hill-user research. One answer helps; further questions are up to you.Take part
Help the Mountain Decisions Project understand how forecasts influence hill days, including when plans stay the same. Findings will be shared publicly as summaries, not individual responses.
This is about Braeriach on Thursday 12 November 2026. It asks about intentions, not whether you actually went out. No name or account is needed.
Summit wind · 08:00-17:0020-35 mph northwesterlySummit gusts · 08:00-17:0035-45 mphFeels like-16 to -12°CPrecipitationLittle or noneCloud-free summit estimate55%Cloud base through day1,400-1,700 mFreezing level300-600 mDaylightSunrise 07:51 · Sunset 16:05 · 8.2 hours daylight
The day on the hill
A mixed day on Braeriach, with a bitter wind chill and a blustery wind.
Wind
On the summit expect a north-westerly wind of 20–35 mph for most of the day, with gusts of 35–45 mph at the windiest. Lower down on the open hillside it will be more like 5–15 mph. Gusts like that are strong enough to make walking into it hard work, with buffeting on ridges and edges. If the windier forecast models are right, summit gusts could reach 45–55 mph. It gets windier still after dark, with summit gusts of 40–50 mph, so bear that in mind if you will be out late.
Cloud and visibility
The tops are likely to drift in and out of cloud, with the best chance of a clear summit around midday. The cloud base could be as low as 800–1100 m mid-morning. A few forecast models bring it lower still, to around 500–800 m.
Rain and ground
It should stay dry.
Warmth and kit
On the tops it will be around -8 to -4°C, feeling like -16 to -12°C in the wind. The freezing level is around 400–700 m, so it will be below freezing on the tops. Hat, gloves and a warm insulated layer are essential, with extra warmth for stops.
Daylight
A short day, with only about 8 hours of daylight. Sunset is around 4:05pm, so allow time to get off the hill before dark, and carry a head torch.
Forecast confidence
There is some disagreement between forecast models on wind strength. It's still three days off and could change, so check again nearer the time.
Sunshine context Model-grid estimate, not summit sunshine
The surrounding model grid indicates 4.3 h of sunshine. This is not a forecast of time in sunshine on the summit. Use the cloud and views outlook above for the conditions on this mountain.
Morning · 08:00–12:00
MixedSummit winds around 20-30 mph. Gusts around 30-40 mph are possible on exposed ground.
51
Afternoon · 12:00–17:00
MixedSummit winds around 25-35 mph. Gusts around 35-45 mph are possible on exposed ground. Gusts this strong can make walking into it hard work, with buffeting on ridges and edges.
53
Compare an early start with later conditions. The main forecast above covers the day in more detail.
Overnight · 17:00–08:00Wild campingBetaToo windy for an exposed pitch above about 600 m (gusts of about 50 mph). Lower down, a poor night to camp on open ground.19Poor · 600 mView detailsHide details
Night beginning Friday 13 November 2026
Full overnight outlook
Too windy for an exposed pitch above about 600 m. Lower down, a poor night to camp on open ground. Gusts reach about 50 mph around 900 m and nearer 35 mph around 300 m, enough to damage a tent on open ground. Pitch low down and in real shelter, or leave it for another night. Dry to pitch, then a little rain overnight, easing by morning, though the tent may still be wet. Above about 600 m you'd likely be in cloud for part of the night: damp, and hard to find your way if you need to move. The air is damp at every height we checked (300-900 m), so expect heavy condensation. Leave the vents open. A cold night, down to about 0°C around 900 m. A warm 3-season or 3–4 season bag rated to about 0°C comfort, and a warm mat, should do. Allow more if you sleep cold.
Extensive cloud may limit moonlight. Illumination describes the sunlit part of the Moon, not brightness at your pitch.
Overnight window: 13 Nov, 17:00 GMT to 14 Nov, 08:00 GMT. Approximate open-horizon times; hills can hide the Moon. Still take a headtorch.
Elevation reference (open ground)
300 m39 · poor
Wind / gust
26 mph / 35 mph
Typical / low
3.3°C / 2.3°C · much of the night
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
High
600 m19 · very poor
Wind / gust
31 mph / 42 mph
Typical / low
2.9°C / 2.0°C · much of the night
In cloud
33% of modelled night
Condensation
High
900 m9 · very poor
Wind / gust
36 mph / 49 mph
Typical / low
1.0°C / 0.2°C · much of the night
In cloud
53% of modelled night
Condensation
High
Warmth planning: As a broad starting point, consider a warm 3-season or 3–4 season bag with an ISO/EN comfort rating at or below about 0°C. Allow more margin if you sleep cold or expect fatigue, and use an adequate insulated mat. Dampness is possible, so keep the sleep system dry and ensure its insulation remains effective if damp.
Very poor conditions for exposed scrambling. The rock should be mostly dry, though drainage lines and shaded holds may still be damp. Snow is likely on the rock and ledges, so it becomes a winter route. Gusts of 35–45 mph could throw you off balance on exposed moves and ridges. Cloud on the tops may make route-finding and retreat harder. The rock around the summit is mostly granite, a coarse, crystalline rock. It has excellent friction when dry and clean and is fair when wet, but greasy where there is lichen or moss. It is generally solid, but weathers into rounded slabs and blocks, and loose granite grit on slabs can roll underfoot like ball bearings. These are general notes for each rock type, taken from geological maps around the summit, so the rock on your line may differ.
Rock surfaceProbably dryPeak gust35-45 mphRain0.0 mm
Main factorsgusts of 35–45 mphSnow is likely to be lying on high ground. Scrambling may require winter mountaineering skills and equipment
Representative rock around the summit and along available routes
Biotite graniteCairngorm Pluton, Phase 2
Origin
Igneous
Broad rock-response group
Granite, gneiss or gabbro
Mapping
BGS Geology 50K · 1:50,000
Summit area
Granite, gneiss or gabbro in 100% of 17 BGS samples within 350 m
Granite is a coarse, crystalline rock. It has excellent friction when dry and clean and is fair when wet, but greasy where there is lichen or moss. It is generally solid, but weathers into rounded slabs and blocks, and loose granite grit on slabs can roll underfoot like ball bearings. These are general notes for each rock type, from geological map samples at and around the summit. The rock on your line can differ, and lichen, vegetation and seepage all change how it feels underfoot.
Rock groups along the sampled routes
These are mapped rock groups, not separate weather forecasts or a ranking of route safety.
Braeriach
granite, gneiss or gabbro
The Devil's Point, Cairn Toul, Sgòr an Lochain Uaine and Braeriach
granite, gneiss or gabbro
Geological detail and BGS records
Mapped variation
2 rock types appear in the mapped samples
Samples around the summit inform the main rock-response profile, with the summit pin shown separately where it differs. Route samples add further context, but this is not a continuous geological survey.
Summit-area sample
Biotite graniteCairngorm Pluton, Phase 2669–1,291 m samplesSeen on Braeriach, The Devil's Point, Cairn Toul, Sgòr an Lochain Uaine and Braeriach
Granite is a coarse, crystalline rock. It has excellent friction when dry and clean and is fair when wet, but greasy where there is lichen or moss. It is generally solid, but weathers into rounded slabs and blocks, and loose granite grit on slabs can roll underfoot like ball bearings.
BGS record →
Route sample
Aplitic-porphyritic micrograniteCairngorm Pluton, Phase 4978–1,166 m samplesSeen on Braeriach, The Devil's Point, Cairn Toul, Sgòr an Lochain Uaine and Braeriach
Granite is a coarse, crystalline rock. It has excellent friction when dry and clean and is fair when wet, but greasy where there is lichen or moss. It is generally solid, but weathers into rounded slabs and blocks, and loose granite grit on slabs can roll underfoot like ball bearings.
Did this match your experience?Tell us about the rock surface and wind to help improve this beta forecast.Give feedback →
Overnight · Aurora, stars & meteorsAfter darkBetaMostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Rain at times. Hazy, which dims the fainter stars.View forecastClose forecast
After dark: aurora and stargazing
Night beginning 2026-11-13. All times are UK local time.
Using the last available sky forecast, updated at 01:26 GMT on 10 Nov. Cloud conditions may have changed. Live aurora guidance is temporarily unavailable.
Stargazing
Poor sky conditions during the best available spell: 13 Nov, 19:00 GMT to 20:00 GMT.
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Rain at times. Hazy, which dims the fainter stars.
Moon-free dark sky: 13 Nov, 18:20 GMT to 14 Nov, 05:40 GMT.
Sky conditions through the night
Fully dark periods. Conditions can change between forecast hours.
Time
Viewing conditions
13 Nov, 18:20 GMT to 19:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Rain at times. Hazy, which dims the fainter stars.
13 Nov, 19:00 GMT to 20:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Rain at times. Hazy, which dims the fainter stars.
13 Nov, 20:00 GMT to 21:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Rain at times. Hazy, which dims the fainter stars.
13 Nov, 21:00 GMT to 22:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Hazy, which dims the fainter stars.
13 Nov, 22:00 GMT to 23:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Rain at times. Hazy, which dims the fainter stars.
13 Nov, 23:00 GMT to 14 Nov, 00:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Rain at times. Hazy, which dims the fainter stars.
14 Nov, 00:00 GMT to 01:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Rain at times. Hazy, which dims the fainter stars.
14 Nov, 01:00 GMT to 02:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Rain at times. Hazy, which dims the fainter stars.
14 Nov, 02:00 GMT to 03:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Rain at times. Hazy, which dims the fainter stars.
14 Nov, 03:00 GMT to 04:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Hazy, which dims the fainter stars.
14 Nov, 04:00 GMT to 05:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Hazy, which dims the fainter stars.
14 Nov, 05:00 GMT to 05:40 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Hazy, which dims the fainter stars.
Moon, darkness and meteor showers
Crescent moon, about 20% illuminated.
Moonset around 13 Nov, 18:00 GMT.
Full darkness: 13 Nov, 18:20 GMT to 14 Nov, 05:40 GMT.
Moon times assume an open horizon. Hills can hide the Moon sooner. Moon-free does not mean cloud-free.
Southern Taurids are active on this night. Activity may be much lower away from the peak.
Northern Taurids are active on this night. Activity may be much lower away from the peak.
Leonids are active on this night. Activity may be much lower away from the peak.
Southern Taurids: peak around 10 October 2026.
Northern Taurids: peak around 12 November 2026.
Leonids: peak around 18 November 2026.
Geminids: peak around 14 December 2026.
Ursids: peak around 22 December 2026.
Dates from the Royal Observatory Greenwich. Activity dates do not guarantee visible meteors. Look across a broad, dark sky, not only north.
Darkness of the surroundings
Estimated darkness rank 334 of 980 assessed peaks (1 is darkest), based on surrounding artificial light in 2021. This is not a measurement of tonight’s sky.
2021 artificial-light baseline, not measured sky brightness or a Bortle class. Changes to lighting, blue-rich LEDs, terrain screening, atmospheric scattering and cloud-reflected light are not resolved. Similar ranks are not meaningfully distinct. Darkness is not a recommendation to climb a summit at night.
VIIRS nighttime lights: Earth Observation Group, Payne Institute for Public Policy, Colorado School of Mines. Reprocessed by OpenGeoHub/OpenLandMap. Cropped and ranked by Mountain Weather.
Sky-weather grades exclude light pollution, terrain and thin haze. They are not mountain safety ratings. Check the mountain and camping forecast separately. Accessible lower viewpoints may be a better choice than summits.
Recommended kit for this dayWeather-aware packing prompts, plus your core hillwalking kitView kit
For a day hillwalk, not a complete route-specific checklist. Carry navigation and backup you can use, warm and waterproof layers, suitable footwear, food and water, a headtorch, emergency shelter, first aid and a way to call for help. Snow, ice, technical terrain and overnight trips need additional equipment and skills.
Does the weather shape your plans?Optional hill-user research. One answer helps; further questions are up to you.Take part
Help the Mountain Decisions Project understand how forecasts influence hill days, including when plans stay the same. Findings will be shared publicly as summaries, not individual responses.
This is about Braeriach on Friday 13 November 2026. It asks about intentions, not whether you actually went out. No name or account is needed.
Summit wind · 08:00-17:0030-40 mph westerlySummit gusts · 08:00-17:0040-50 mphFeels like-12 to -8°CPrecipitationUp to around 2 mmCloud-free summit estimate30%Cloud base through day900-1,700 mFreezing level900-1,200 mDaylightSunrise 07:53 · Sunset 16:04 · 8.2 hours daylight
The day on the hill
A poor day on the tops of Braeriach, with snow on the tops and strong, gusty winds.
Snow and navigation
Snow is forecast on the tops in the afternoon. The air freezing level is roughly 1000 to 1200 m above sea level. Snow can fall below this, but its lower limit is uncertain. The forecast model suggests less than 1 cm of fresh snowfall at around 1300 m between 08:00 and 17:00 (local time). The amount settling is uncertain and will vary with melting and drifting.
Wind
On the summit expect a westerly wind of 30–40 mph for most of the day, with gusts of 40–50 mph at the windiest. Lower down on the open hillside it will be more like 10–20 mph. Gusts like that are strong enough to knock you off balance, so take care near edges and on narrow ridges.
Cloud and visibility
Expect the summit to be in cloud for most of the day. The cloud base could be as low as 800–1100 m around midday. A few forecast models bring it lower still, to around 500–800 m. In cloud you'll be finding your way without landmarks, so carry navigation you trust and know how to use, with a backup such as a spare battery or a map and compass. Any sunshine is more likely on lower ground than on the summit.
Rain and ground
Snow is possible on the tops.
Warmth and kit
On the tops it will be around -4 to 0°C, feeling like -12 to -8°C in the wind. The freezing level is around 1000–1300 m, so it will be below freezing on the tops. Hat, gloves and a warm insulated layer are essential, with extra warmth for stops. Pack waterproofs too, and keep a warm layer dry in your pack.
Daylight
A short day, with only about 8 hours of daylight. Sunset is around 4:05pm, so allow time to get off the hill before dark, and carry a head torch.
Forecast confidence
There is some disagreement between forecast models on wind strength. It's still four days off and could change, so check again nearer the time.
Sunshine context Model-grid estimate, not summit sunshine
The surrounding model grid indicates 3.2 h of sunshine. This is not a forecast of time in sunshine on the summit. Use the cloud and views outlook above for the conditions on this mountain.
Cloud may obscure this summit even while the surrounding model grid indicates sunshine. The low cloud-free summit estimate is a reason to be cautious about expecting views.
Morning · 08:00–12:00
PoorSummit winds around 30-40 mph. Gusts around 40-50 mph are possible on exposed ground. Gusts this strong can make walking into it hard work, with buffeting on ridges and edges.
22
Afternoon · 12:00–17:00
PoorSummit winds around 30-40 mph. Gusts around 40-50 mph are possible on exposed ground. Gusts this strong can knock you off balance, so take care near edges and on narrow ridges. Summit cloud is more persistent early in this period, with better prospects later. Rain is forecast during this period.
20
Compare an early start with later conditions. The main forecast above covers the day in more detail.
Overnight · 17:00–08:00Wild campingBetaNot a night to camp on the open hill: gusts of about 65 mph.9Poor · 600 mView detailsHide details
Night beginning Saturday 14 November 2026
Full overnight outlook
Not a night to camp on the open hill. Gusts reach about 65 mph around 900 m and nearer 45 mph around 300 m, strong enough to flatten or tear a tent. Don't count on finding shelter once you're up there. Choose another night or a low, sheltered spot. Dry to pitch, then some light rain overnight and into the morning, so expect to pack a wet tent. A cold night, down to about 1°C around 900 m. A warm 3-season or 3–4 season bag rated to about 0°C comfort, and a warm mat, should do. Allow more if you sleep cold.
Extensive cloud may limit moonlight. Illumination describes the sunlit part of the Moon, not brightness at your pitch.
Overnight window: 14 Nov, 17:00 GMT to 15 Nov, 08:00 GMT. Approximate open-horizon times; hills can hide the Moon. Still take a headtorch.
Elevation reference (open ground)
300 m9 · very poor
Wind / gust
32 mph / 47 mph
Typical / low
5.6°C / 3.7°C · several hours
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
Moderate
600 m9 · very poor
Wind / gust
38 mph / 56 mph
Typical / low
4.7°C / 3.1°C · much of the night
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
Moderate
900 m0 · very poor
Wind / gust
45 mph / 66 mph
Typical / low
2.7°C / 1.2°C · much of the night
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
High
Warmth planning: As a broad starting point, consider a warm 3-season or 3–4 season bag with an ISO/EN comfort rating at or below about 0°C. Allow more margin if you sleep cold or expect fatigue, and use an adequate insulated mat. Dampness is possible, so keep the sleep system dry and ensure its insulation remains effective if damp.
Very poor conditions for exposed scrambling. The rock is likely to be wet and slippery through the day. Icy patches are likely on the rock, which makes it treacherous without winter kit. Gusts of 40–50 mph could throw you off balance on exposed moves and ridges. Cloud on the tops may make route-finding and retreat harder. The rock around the summit is mostly granite, a coarse, crystalline rock. It has excellent friction when dry and clean and is fair when wet, but greasy where there is lichen or moss. It is generally solid, but weathers into rounded slabs and blocks, and loose granite grit on slabs can roll underfoot like ball bearings. These are general notes for each rock type, taken from geological maps around the summit, so the rock on your line may differ.
Rock surfaceWet rock likelyPeak gust40-50 mphRain0.6 mm
Main factorsgusts of 40–50 mphwet rock likelymuch of the route may be in cloud
Representative rock around the summit and along available routes
Biotite graniteCairngorm Pluton, Phase 2
Origin
Igneous
Broad rock-response group
Granite, gneiss or gabbro
Mapping
BGS Geology 50K · 1:50,000
Summit area
Granite, gneiss or gabbro in 100% of 17 BGS samples within 350 m
Granite is a coarse, crystalline rock. It has excellent friction when dry and clean and is fair when wet, but greasy where there is lichen or moss. It is generally solid, but weathers into rounded slabs and blocks, and loose granite grit on slabs can roll underfoot like ball bearings. These are general notes for each rock type, from geological map samples at and around the summit. The rock on your line can differ, and lichen, vegetation and seepage all change how it feels underfoot.
Rock groups along the sampled routes
These are mapped rock groups, not separate weather forecasts or a ranking of route safety.
Braeriach
granite, gneiss or gabbro
The Devil's Point, Cairn Toul, Sgòr an Lochain Uaine and Braeriach
granite, gneiss or gabbro
Geological detail and BGS records
Mapped variation
2 rock types appear in the mapped samples
Samples around the summit inform the main rock-response profile, with the summit pin shown separately where it differs. Route samples add further context, but this is not a continuous geological survey.
Summit-area sample
Biotite graniteCairngorm Pluton, Phase 2669–1,291 m samplesSeen on Braeriach, The Devil's Point, Cairn Toul, Sgòr an Lochain Uaine and Braeriach
Granite is a coarse, crystalline rock. It has excellent friction when dry and clean and is fair when wet, but greasy where there is lichen or moss. It is generally solid, but weathers into rounded slabs and blocks, and loose granite grit on slabs can roll underfoot like ball bearings.
BGS record →
Route sample
Aplitic-porphyritic micrograniteCairngorm Pluton, Phase 4978–1,166 m samplesSeen on Braeriach, The Devil's Point, Cairn Toul, Sgòr an Lochain Uaine and Braeriach
Granite is a coarse, crystalline rock. It has excellent friction when dry and clean and is fair when wet, but greasy where there is lichen or moss. It is generally solid, but weathers into rounded slabs and blocks, and loose granite grit on slabs can roll underfoot like ball bearings.
Did this match your experience?Tell us about the rock surface and wind to help improve this beta forecast.Give feedback →
Overnight · Aurora, stars & meteorsAfter darkBetaMostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Hazy, which dims the fainter stars.View forecastClose forecast
After dark: aurora and stargazing
Night beginning 2026-11-14. All times are UK local time.
Using the last available sky forecast, updated at 01:26 GMT on 10 Nov. Cloud conditions may have changed. Live aurora guidance is temporarily unavailable.
Stargazing
Poor sky conditions during the best available spell: 14 Nov, 19:00 GMT to 20:00 GMT.
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Hazy, which dims the fainter stars.
Moon-free dark sky: 14 Nov, 19:20 GMT to 15 Nov, 05:40 GMT.
Sky conditions through the night
Fully dark periods. Conditions can change between forecast hours.
Time
Viewing conditions
14 Nov, 18:20 GMT to 19:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Hazy, which dims the fainter stars.
14 Nov, 19:00 GMT to 20:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Hazy, which dims the fainter stars.
14 Nov, 20:00 GMT to 21:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Hazy, which dims the fainter stars.
14 Nov, 21:00 GMT to 22:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Rain at times. Hazy, which dims the fainter stars.
14 Nov, 22:00 GMT to 23:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Rain at times. Hazy, which dims the fainter stars.
14 Nov, 23:00 GMT to 15 Nov, 00:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Rain at times. Hazy, which dims the fainter stars.
15 Nov, 00:00 GMT to 01:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Rain at times. Hazy, which dims the fainter stars.
15 Nov, 01:00 GMT to 02:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Rain at times. Hazy, which dims the fainter stars.
15 Nov, 02:00 GMT to 03:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Rain at times. Hazy, which dims the fainter stars.
15 Nov, 03:00 GMT to 04:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Rain at times. Hazy, which dims the fainter stars.
15 Nov, 04:00 GMT to 05:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Rain at times. Hazy, which dims the fainter stars.
15 Nov, 05:00 GMT to 05:40 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Rain at times. Hazy, which dims the fainter stars.
Moon, darkness and meteor showers
Crescent moon, about 28% illuminated.
Moonset around 14 Nov, 19:20 GMT.
Full darkness: 14 Nov, 18:20 GMT to 15 Nov, 05:40 GMT.
Moon times assume an open horizon. Hills can hide the Moon sooner. Moon-free does not mean cloud-free.
Southern Taurids are active on this night. Activity may be much lower away from the peak.
Northern Taurids are active on this night. Activity may be much lower away from the peak.
Leonids are active on this night. Activity may be much lower away from the peak.
Southern Taurids: peak around 10 October 2026.
Northern Taurids: peak around 12 November 2026.
Leonids: peak around 18 November 2026.
Geminids: peak around 14 December 2026.
Ursids: peak around 22 December 2026.
Dates from the Royal Observatory Greenwich. Activity dates do not guarantee visible meteors. Look across a broad, dark sky, not only north.
Darkness of the surroundings
Estimated darkness rank 334 of 980 assessed peaks (1 is darkest), based on surrounding artificial light in 2021. This is not a measurement of tonight’s sky.
2021 artificial-light baseline, not measured sky brightness or a Bortle class. Changes to lighting, blue-rich LEDs, terrain screening, atmospheric scattering and cloud-reflected light are not resolved. Similar ranks are not meaningfully distinct. Darkness is not a recommendation to climb a summit at night.
VIIRS nighttime lights: Earth Observation Group, Payne Institute for Public Policy, Colorado School of Mines. Reprocessed by OpenGeoHub/OpenLandMap. Cropped and ranked by Mountain Weather.
Sky-weather grades exclude light pollution, terrain and thin haze. They are not mountain safety ratings. Check the mountain and camping forecast separately. Accessible lower viewpoints may be a better choice than summits.
Recommended kit for this dayWeather-aware packing prompts, plus your core hillwalking kitView kit
For a day hillwalk, not a complete route-specific checklist. Carry navigation and backup you can use, warm and waterproof layers, suitable footwear, food and water, a headtorch, emergency shelter, first aid and a way to call for help. Snow, ice, technical terrain and overnight trips need additional equipment and skills.
Does the weather shape your plans?Optional hill-user research. One answer helps; further questions are up to you.Take part
Help the Mountain Decisions Project understand how forecasts influence hill days, including when plans stay the same. Findings will be shared publicly as summaries, not individual responses.
This is about Braeriach on Saturday 14 November 2026. It asks about intentions, not whether you actually went out. No name or account is needed.
Summit wind · 08:00-17:0025-40 mph southwesterlySummit gusts · 08:00-17:0050-60 mphFeels like-10 to -6°CPrecipitationUp to around 2 mmCloud-free summit estimate40%Cloud base through day1,400-1,700 mFreezing level1,200-1,500 mDaylightSunrise 07:55 · Sunset 16:02 · 8.1 hours daylight
The day on the hill
A poor day on the tops of Braeriach, with sleet or snow on the tops and very strong, gusty winds.
Snow and navigation
Sleet or snow is possible on the tops during the morning and afternoon, with small temperature changes affecting the mix. The air freezing level is roughly 1300 to 1500 m above sea level. Snow can fall below this, but its lower limit is uncertain.
Wind
On the summit expect a south-westerly wind of 25–40 mph for most of the day, with gusts of 50–60 mph at the windiest. Lower down on the open hillside it will be more like 10–20 mph. Gusts like that are strong enough to make walking very difficult and tiring, with a risk of being blown off your feet. Avoid exposed ridges and edges. If the windier forecast models are right, summit gusts could reach 80–90 mph.
Cloud and visibility
The tops are likely to drift in and out of cloud, with the best chance of a clear summit around midday. The cloud base lifts through the day. A few forecast models bring the cloud base down to around 800–1100 m at times. The cloud base sits close to summit height, so the top could go in and out of cloud at short notice. In cloud you'll be finding your way without landmarks, so carry navigation you trust and know how to use, with a backup such as a spare battery or a map and compass.
Rain and ground
Sleet for much of the day. Expect up to 2 mm in total, measured as melted water, so any snow would lie deeper.
Warmth and kit
On the tops it will be around -2 to 2°C, feeling like -10 to -6°C in the wind. The freezing level is close to summit height. Take a hat, gloves, a windproof and a spare warm layer. Pack waterproofs too, and keep a warm layer dry in your pack.
Daylight
A short day, with only about 8 hours of daylight. Sunset is around 4pm, so allow time to get off the hill before dark, and carry a head torch.
Forecast confidence
It's still five days off and could change, so check again nearer the time.
Sunshine context Model-grid estimate, not summit sunshine
The surrounding model grid indicates 1.2 h of sunshine. This is not a forecast of time in sunshine on the summit. Use the cloud and views outlook above for the conditions on this mountain.
Cloud may obscure this summit even while the surrounding model grid indicates sunshine. The low cloud-free summit estimate is a reason to be cautious about expecting views.
Morning · 08:00–12:00
PoorSummit winds around 30-40 mph. Gusts around 50-60 mph are possible on exposed ground. Gusts this strong can make walking very difficult and tiring, with a risk of being blown off your feet. Avoid exposed ridges and edges. Summit cloud is more persistent early in this period, with better prospects later. Rain is forecast during this period.
25
Afternoon · 12:00–17:00
PoorSummit winds around 25-35 mph. Gusts around 35-45 mph are possible on exposed ground. Gusts this strong can make walking into it hard work, with buffeting on ridges and edges. Rain is forecast during this period.
46
Compare an early start with later conditions. The main forecast above covers the day in more detail.
Overnight · 17:00–08:00Wild campingBetaToo windy for an exposed pitch above about 600 m (gusts of about 55 mph and about 4 mm of rain). Lower down, a poor night to camp on open ground.9Poor · 600 mView detailsHide details
Night beginning Sunday 15 November 2026
Full overnight outlook
Too windy for an exposed pitch above about 600 m. Lower down, a poor night to camp on open ground. Gusts reach about 55 mph around 900 m and nearer 40 mph around 300 m, strong enough to flatten or tear a tent. Pitch low down and in real shelter, or leave it for another night. The wind swings from southwesterly to northwesterly overnight, so a pitch sheltered at dusk may not be by morning. Expect about 4 mm of rain, mostly early on, so you'll likely pitch in the rain. A frost at every height we checked (300-900 m), down to about -2°C. A warm 3-season or 3–4 season bag rated to about -4°C comfort, and a warm mat, should do. Allow more if you sleep cold.
Extensive cloud may limit moonlight. Illumination describes the sunlit part of the Moon, not brightness at your pitch.
Overnight window: 15 Nov, 17:00 GMT to 16 Nov, 08:00 GMT. Approximate open-horizon times; hills can hide the Moon. Still take a headtorch.
Elevation reference (open ground)
300 m39 · poor
Wind / gust
23 mph / 38 mph
Typical / low
7.7°C / -0.4°C · several hours
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
Moderate
600 m9 · very poor
Wind / gust
28 mph / 47 mph
Typical / low
3.9°C / -0.4°C · several hours
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
Moderate
900 m9 · very poor
Wind / gust
33 mph / 56 mph
Typical / low
4.1°C / -2.4°C · much of the night
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
Moderate
Warmth planning: As a broad starting point, consider a warm 3-season or 3–4 season bag with an ISO/EN comfort rating at or below about -4°C. Allow more margin if you sleep cold or expect fatigue, and use an adequate insulated mat. Dampness is possible, so keep the sleep system dry and ensure its insulation remains effective if damp.
Very poor conditions for exposed scrambling. The rock is likely to be wet and slippery through the day. Snow is likely on the rock and ledges, so it becomes a winter route. Gusts of 50–60 mph are strong enough to make walking very difficult and tiring, with a risk of being blown off your feet. Avoid exposed ridges and edges. The rock around the summit is mostly granite, a coarse, crystalline rock. It has excellent friction when dry and clean and is fair when wet, but greasy where there is lichen or moss. It is generally solid, but weathers into rounded slabs and blocks, and loose granite grit on slabs can roll underfoot like ball bearings. These are general notes for each rock type, taken from geological maps around the summit, so the rock on your line may differ.
Rock surfaceWet rock likelyPeak gust50-60 mphRain1.5 mm
Main factorsgusts of 50–60 mphwet rock likelySnow is likely to be lying on high ground. Scrambling may require winter mountaineering skills and equipment
Representative rock around the summit and along available routes
Biotite graniteCairngorm Pluton, Phase 2
Origin
Igneous
Broad rock-response group
Granite, gneiss or gabbro
Mapping
BGS Geology 50K · 1:50,000
Summit area
Granite, gneiss or gabbro in 100% of 17 BGS samples within 350 m
Granite is a coarse, crystalline rock. It has excellent friction when dry and clean and is fair when wet, but greasy where there is lichen or moss. It is generally solid, but weathers into rounded slabs and blocks, and loose granite grit on slabs can roll underfoot like ball bearings. These are general notes for each rock type, from geological map samples at and around the summit. The rock on your line can differ, and lichen, vegetation and seepage all change how it feels underfoot.
Rock groups along the sampled routes
These are mapped rock groups, not separate weather forecasts or a ranking of route safety.
Braeriach
granite, gneiss or gabbro
The Devil's Point, Cairn Toul, Sgòr an Lochain Uaine and Braeriach
granite, gneiss or gabbro
Geological detail and BGS records
Mapped variation
2 rock types appear in the mapped samples
Samples around the summit inform the main rock-response profile, with the summit pin shown separately where it differs. Route samples add further context, but this is not a continuous geological survey.
Summit-area sample
Biotite graniteCairngorm Pluton, Phase 2669–1,291 m samplesSeen on Braeriach, The Devil's Point, Cairn Toul, Sgòr an Lochain Uaine and Braeriach
Granite is a coarse, crystalline rock. It has excellent friction when dry and clean and is fair when wet, but greasy where there is lichen or moss. It is generally solid, but weathers into rounded slabs and blocks, and loose granite grit on slabs can roll underfoot like ball bearings.
BGS record →
Route sample
Aplitic-porphyritic micrograniteCairngorm Pluton, Phase 4978–1,166 m samplesSeen on Braeriach, The Devil's Point, Cairn Toul, Sgòr an Lochain Uaine and Braeriach
Granite is a coarse, crystalline rock. It has excellent friction when dry and clean and is fair when wet, but greasy where there is lichen or moss. It is generally solid, but weathers into rounded slabs and blocks, and loose granite grit on slabs can roll underfoot like ball bearings.
Did this match your experience?Tell us about the rock surface and wind to help improve this beta forecast.Give feedback →
Overnight · Aurora, stars & meteorsAfter darkBetaMostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Rain at times.View forecastClose forecast
After dark: aurora and stargazing
Night beginning 2026-11-15. All times are UK local time.
Using the last available sky forecast, updated at 01:26 GMT on 10 Nov. Cloud conditions may have changed. Live aurora guidance is temporarily unavailable.
Stargazing
Poor sky conditions during the best available spell: 16 Nov, 04:00 GMT to 05:00 GMT.
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Rain at times.
Moon-free dark sky: 15 Nov, 20:45 GMT to 16 Nov, 05:40 GMT.
Sky conditions through the night
Fully dark periods. Conditions can change between forecast hours.
Time
Viewing conditions
15 Nov, 18:20 GMT to 19:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Rain at times. Hazy, which dims the fainter stars.
15 Nov, 19:00 GMT to 20:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Rain at times. Hazy, which dims the fainter stars.
15 Nov, 20:00 GMT to 21:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Rain at times. Hazy, which dims the fainter stars.
15 Nov, 21:00 GMT to 22:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Rain at times. Hazy, which dims the fainter stars.
15 Nov, 22:00 GMT to 23:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Rain at times. Hazy, which dims the fainter stars.
15 Nov, 23:00 GMT to 16 Nov, 00:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Rain at times. Hazy, which dims the fainter stars.
16 Nov, 00:00 GMT to 01:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Rain at times. Hazy, which dims the fainter stars.
Limited model coverage.
16 Nov, 01:00 GMT to 02:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Rain at times. Hazy, which dims the fainter stars.
Limited model coverage.
16 Nov, 02:00 GMT to 03:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Rain at times.
Limited model coverage.
16 Nov, 03:00 GMT to 04:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Rain at times.
Limited model coverage.
16 Nov, 04:00 GMT to 05:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Rain at times.
Limited model coverage.
16 Nov, 05:00 GMT to 05:40 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Rain at times.
Limited model coverage.
Moon, darkness and meteor showers
Crescent moon, about 36% illuminated.
Moonset around 15 Nov, 20:45 GMT.
Full darkness: 15 Nov, 18:20 GMT to 16 Nov, 05:40 GMT.
Moon times assume an open horizon. Hills can hide the Moon sooner. Moon-free does not mean cloud-free.
Southern Taurids are active on this night. Activity may be much lower away from the peak.
Northern Taurids are active on this night. Activity may be much lower away from the peak.
Leonids are active on this night. Activity may be much lower away from the peak.
Southern Taurids: peak around 10 October 2026.
Northern Taurids: peak around 12 November 2026.
Leonids: peak around 18 November 2026.
Geminids: peak around 14 December 2026.
Ursids: peak around 22 December 2026.
Dates from the Royal Observatory Greenwich. Activity dates do not guarantee visible meteors. Look across a broad, dark sky, not only north.
Darkness of the surroundings
Estimated darkness rank 334 of 980 assessed peaks (1 is darkest), based on surrounding artificial light in 2021. This is not a measurement of tonight’s sky.
2021 artificial-light baseline, not measured sky brightness or a Bortle class. Changes to lighting, blue-rich LEDs, terrain screening, atmospheric scattering and cloud-reflected light are not resolved. Similar ranks are not meaningfully distinct. Darkness is not a recommendation to climb a summit at night.
VIIRS nighttime lights: Earth Observation Group, Payne Institute for Public Policy, Colorado School of Mines. Reprocessed by OpenGeoHub/OpenLandMap. Cropped and ranked by Mountain Weather.
Sky-weather grades exclude light pollution, terrain and thin haze. They are not mountain safety ratings. Check the mountain and camping forecast separately. Accessible lower viewpoints may be a better choice than summits.
Recommended kit for this dayWeather-aware packing prompts, plus your core hillwalking kitView kit
For a day hillwalk, not a complete route-specific checklist. Carry navigation and backup you can use, warm and waterproof layers, suitable footwear, food and water, a headtorch, emergency shelter, first aid and a way to call for help. Snow, ice, technical terrain and overnight trips need additional equipment and skills.
Does the weather shape your plans?Optional hill-user research. One answer helps; further questions are up to you.Take part
Help the Mountain Decisions Project understand how forecasts influence hill days, including when plans stay the same. Findings will be shared publicly as summaries, not individual responses.
This is about Braeriach on Sunday 15 November 2026. It asks about intentions, not whether you actually went out. No name or account is needed.
Summit wind · 08:00-17:0020-30 mph westerlySummit gusts · 08:00-17:0030-40 mphFeels like-16 to -12°CPrecipitationLittle or noneCloud-free summit estimate55%Cloud base through day1,300-1,600 mFreezing level400-700 mDaylightSunrise 07:57 · Sunset 16:00 · 8.1 hours daylight
The day on the hill
Dry on Braeriach, with a bitter wind chill and a blustery wind. Cloud could cover the tops and limit the views.
Wind
On the summit expect a westerly wind of 20–30 mph for most of the day, with gusts of 30–40 mph at the windiest. Lower down on the open hillside the wind will be light, under 10 mph. Gusts like that are strong enough to make walking into it hard work, with buffeting on ridges and edges. If the windier forecast models are right, summit gusts could reach 50–60 mph.
Cloud and visibility
Clear spells are possible, but cloud could cover the tops for part of the day. Forecast models differ on how much summit cloud develops. A few forecast models bring the cloud base down to around 600–900 m at times.
Rain and ground
It should stay dry. Some forecast models bring rain, so don't count on it staying dry.
Warmth and kit
On the tops it will be around -6 to -2°C, feeling like -16 to -12°C in the wind. The freezing level is around 500–800 m, so it will be below freezing on the tops. Hat, gloves and a warm insulated layer are essential, with extra warmth for stops.
Daylight
A short day, with only about 8 hours of daylight. Sunset is around 4pm, so allow time to get off the hill before dark, and carry a head torch.
Forecast confidence
It's still six days off and could change, so check again nearer the time.
Sunshine context Model-grid estimate, not summit sunshine
The surrounding model grid indicates 7.8 h of sunshine. This is not a forecast of time in sunshine on the summit. Use the cloud and views outlook above for the conditions on this mountain.
Morning · 08:00–12:00
MixedSummit winds around 20-30 mph. Gusts around 30-40 mph are possible on exposed ground.
65
Afternoon · 12:00–17:00
MixedSummit winds around 20-30 mph. Gusts around 30-40 mph are possible on exposed ground. Gusts this strong can make walking into it hard work, with buffeting on ridges and edges.
61
Compare an early start with later conditions. The main forecast above covers the day in more detail.
Overnight · 17:00–08:00Wild campingBetaA poor night to camp on open ground: gusts of about 40 mph and a frost, down to -3°C.39Poor · 600 mView detailsHide details
Night beginning Monday 16 November 2026
Full overnight outlook
A poor night to camp on open ground. Gusts reach about 40 mph around 900 m and nearer 25 mph around 300 m, which makes for a noisy, testing night even in a good tent. Look for shelter from the west. The wind swings from westerly to southerly overnight, so a pitch sheltered at dusk may not be by morning. Dry to pitch, then some light rain by morning, so you'll likely pack up in the wet. A frost at every height we checked (300-900 m), down to about -3°C. A 4-season bag rated to about -6°C comfort, and a warm mat, should do. Allow more if you sleep cold.
Extensive cloud may limit moonlight. Illumination describes the sunlit part of the Moon, not brightness at your pitch.
Overnight window: 16 Nov, 17:00 GMT to 17 Nov, 08:00 GMT. Approximate open-horizon times; hills can hide the Moon. Still take a headtorch.
Elevation reference (open ground)
300 m39 · poor
Wind / gust
13 mph / 27 mph
Typical / low
-0.8°C / -1.9°C · much of the night
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
High
600 m39 · poor
Wind / gust
15 mph / 32 mph
Typical / low
-0.8°C / -2.1°C · much of the night
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
Moderate
900 m39 · poor
Wind / gust
18 mph / 38 mph
Typical / low
-2.5°C / -3.3°C · much of the night
In cloud
13% of modelled night
Condensation
Moderate
Warmth planning: As a broad starting point, consider a 4-season bag with an ISO/EN comfort rating at or below about -6°C. Allow more margin if you sleep cold or expect fatigue, and use an adequate insulated mat. Dampness is possible, so keep the sleep system dry and ensure its insulation remains effective if damp.
Very poor conditions for exposed scrambling. The rock should be drying, but damp patches, shaded holds and drainage lines may still be wet. Icy patches are likely on the rock, which makes it treacherous without winter kit. Gusts of 30–40 mph could throw you off balance on exposed moves and ridges. The rock around the summit is mostly granite, a coarse, crystalline rock. It has excellent friction when dry and clean and is fair when wet, but greasy where there is lichen or moss. It is generally solid, but weathers into rounded slabs and blocks, and loose granite grit on slabs can roll underfoot like ball bearings. These are general notes for each rock type, taken from geological maps around the summit, so the rock on your line may differ.
Rock surfaceDamp or dryingPeak gust30-40 mphRain0.0 mm
Main factorsgusts of 30–40 mphdamp or incompletely dried rock possibleSnow is likely to be lying on high ground. Scrambling may require winter mountaineering skills and equipment
Representative rock around the summit and along available routes
Biotite graniteCairngorm Pluton, Phase 2
Origin
Igneous
Broad rock-response group
Granite, gneiss or gabbro
Mapping
BGS Geology 50K · 1:50,000
Summit area
Granite, gneiss or gabbro in 100% of 17 BGS samples within 350 m
Granite is a coarse, crystalline rock. It has excellent friction when dry and clean and is fair when wet, but greasy where there is lichen or moss. It is generally solid, but weathers into rounded slabs and blocks, and loose granite grit on slabs can roll underfoot like ball bearings. These are general notes for each rock type, from geological map samples at and around the summit. The rock on your line can differ, and lichen, vegetation and seepage all change how it feels underfoot.
Rock groups along the sampled routes
These are mapped rock groups, not separate weather forecasts or a ranking of route safety.
Braeriach
granite, gneiss or gabbro
The Devil's Point, Cairn Toul, Sgòr an Lochain Uaine and Braeriach
granite, gneiss or gabbro
Geological detail and BGS records
Mapped variation
2 rock types appear in the mapped samples
Samples around the summit inform the main rock-response profile, with the summit pin shown separately where it differs. Route samples add further context, but this is not a continuous geological survey.
Summit-area sample
Biotite graniteCairngorm Pluton, Phase 2669–1,291 m samplesSeen on Braeriach, The Devil's Point, Cairn Toul, Sgòr an Lochain Uaine and Braeriach
Granite is a coarse, crystalline rock. It has excellent friction when dry and clean and is fair when wet, but greasy where there is lichen or moss. It is generally solid, but weathers into rounded slabs and blocks, and loose granite grit on slabs can roll underfoot like ball bearings.
BGS record →
Route sample
Aplitic-porphyritic micrograniteCairngorm Pluton, Phase 4978–1,166 m samplesSeen on Braeriach, The Devil's Point, Cairn Toul, Sgòr an Lochain Uaine and Braeriach
Granite is a coarse, crystalline rock. It has excellent friction when dry and clean and is fair when wet, but greasy where there is lichen or moss. It is generally solid, but weathers into rounded slabs and blocks, and loose granite grit on slabs can roll underfoot like ball bearings.
Did this match your experience?Tell us about the rock surface and wind to help improve this beta forecast.Give feedback →
Overnight · Aurora, stars & meteorsAfter darkBetaMostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Hazy, which dims the fainter stars.View forecastClose forecast
After dark: aurora and stargazing
Night beginning 2026-11-16. All times are UK local time.
Using the last available sky forecast, updated at 01:26 GMT on 10 Nov. Cloud conditions may have changed. Live aurora guidance is temporarily unavailable.
Stargazing
Poor sky conditions during the best available spell: 16 Nov, 18:15 GMT to 19:00 GMT.
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Hazy, which dims the fainter stars.
Moon-free dark sky: 16 Nov, 22:10 GMT to 17 Nov, 05:45 GMT.
Sky conditions through the night
Fully dark periods. Conditions can change between forecast hours.
Time
Viewing conditions
16 Nov, 18:15 GMT to 19:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Hazy, which dims the fainter stars.
Limited model coverage.
16 Nov, 19:00 GMT to 20:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Hazy, which dims the fainter stars.
Limited model coverage.
16 Nov, 20:00 GMT to 21:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Hazy, which dims the fainter stars.
Limited model coverage.
16 Nov, 21:00 GMT to 22:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Hazy, which dims the fainter stars.
Limited model coverage.
16 Nov, 22:00 GMT to 23:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Hazy, which dims the fainter stars.
Limited model coverage.
16 Nov, 23:00 GMT to 17 Nov, 00:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Hazy, which dims the fainter stars.
Limited model coverage.
17 Nov, 00:00 GMT to 01:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Hazy, which dims the fainter stars.
Limited model coverage.
17 Nov, 01:00 GMT to 02:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Hazy, which dims the fainter stars.
Limited model coverage.
17 Nov, 02:00 GMT to 03:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Hazy, which dims the fainter stars.
Limited model coverage.
17 Nov, 03:00 GMT to 04:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Hazy, which dims the fainter stars.
Limited model coverage.
17 Nov, 04:00 GMT to 05:00 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Hazy, which dims the fainter stars.
Limited model coverage.
17 Nov, 05:00 GMT to 05:45 GMT
Poor sky conditions
Mostly cloudy, so little chance of seeing the stars. Hazy, which dims the fainter stars.
Limited model coverage.
Moon, darkness and meteor showers
Around half moon, about 46% illuminated.
Moonset around 16 Nov, 22:10 GMT.
Full darkness: 16 Nov, 18:15 GMT to 17 Nov, 05:45 GMT.
Moon times assume an open horizon. Hills can hide the Moon sooner. Moon-free does not mean cloud-free.
Southern Taurids are active on this night. Activity may be much lower away from the peak.
Northern Taurids are active on this night. Activity may be much lower away from the peak.
Leonids are active on this night. Activity may be much lower away from the peak.
Southern Taurids: peak around 10 October 2026.
Northern Taurids: peak around 12 November 2026.
Leonids: peak around 18 November 2026.
Geminids: peak around 14 December 2026.
Ursids: peak around 22 December 2026.
Dates from the Royal Observatory Greenwich. Activity dates do not guarantee visible meteors. Look across a broad, dark sky, not only north.
Darkness of the surroundings
Estimated darkness rank 334 of 980 assessed peaks (1 is darkest), based on surrounding artificial light in 2021. This is not a measurement of tonight’s sky.
2021 artificial-light baseline, not measured sky brightness or a Bortle class. Changes to lighting, blue-rich LEDs, terrain screening, atmospheric scattering and cloud-reflected light are not resolved. Similar ranks are not meaningfully distinct. Darkness is not a recommendation to climb a summit at night.
VIIRS nighttime lights: Earth Observation Group, Payne Institute for Public Policy, Colorado School of Mines. Reprocessed by OpenGeoHub/OpenLandMap. Cropped and ranked by Mountain Weather.
Sky-weather grades exclude light pollution, terrain and thin haze. They are not mountain safety ratings. Check the mountain and camping forecast separately. Accessible lower viewpoints may be a better choice than summits.
Recommended kit for this dayWeather-aware packing prompts, plus your core hillwalking kitView kit
For a day hillwalk, not a complete route-specific checklist. Carry navigation and backup you can use, warm and waterproof layers, suitable footwear, food and water, a headtorch, emergency shelter, first aid and a way to call for help. Snow, ice, technical terrain and overnight trips need additional equipment and skills.
Does the weather shape your plans?Optional hill-user research. One answer helps; further questions are up to you.Take part
Help the Mountain Decisions Project understand how forecasts influence hill days, including when plans stay the same. Findings will be shared publicly as summaries, not individual responses.
This is about Braeriach on Monday 16 November 2026. It asks about intentions, not whether you actually went out. No name or account is needed.
Braeriach is one of Scotland’s 282 Munros. Munro Planner compares all 282 by forecast, summit views and drive time, with walking routes, times and OS map references for each hill.
