987 m summit in Lochaber. 7 forecast days covering wind, cloud, rain and temperature, updated 10 November 2026 at 16:25 UTC.
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Confidence: Medium
Overall hill weather84Good
Summit wind · 08:00-17:005-25 mph northwesterlySummit gusts · 08:00-17:0025-35 mphFeels like-10 to -6°CPrecipitationUp to around 2 mmCloud-free summit estimate85%Cloud base through day900-1,500 mFreezing level700-1,000 mDaylightSunrise 07:52 · Sunset 16:16 · 8.4 hours daylight
The day on the hill
A good day on Gulvain, though expect snow on the tops.
Snow and navigation
Snow is forecast on the tops in the afternoon. The air freezing level is roughly 900 to 1000 m above sea level. Snow can fall below this, but its lower limit is uncertain. 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 5–15 mph first thing, rising to 15–25 mph by early afternoon, with gusts of 25–35 mph at the windiest. Lower down on the open hillside the wind will be light, under 10 mph. A wind like that will be noticeable on ridges and open tops, and you will chill quickly when you stop.
Cloud and visibility
The tops are likely to drift in and out of cloud, with the best chance of a clear summit around midday. A few forecast models bring the cloud base down to around 500–800 m at times. The cloud base sits close to summit height, so the top could go in and out of cloud at short notice. Patchy mist is possible in sheltered valleys early on. Good spells of sunshine are likely. The air should be clear, so expect far-reaching views as long as the tops stay clear.
Rain and ground
Snow is possible on the tops. 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 -4 to 0°C, feeling like -10 to -6°C in the wind. The freezing level is around 800–1100 m, so it will be below freezing on the tops. 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 4:15pm, 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. Things could still change through the day, so keep an eye on the sky.
Sunshine context Model-grid estimate, not summit sunshine
The surrounding model grid indicates 5.7 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 5-15 mph. Gusts around 10-20 mph are possible on exposed ground. Summit cloud becomes more persistent later.
89
Afternoon · 12:00–17:00
GoodWinds strengthen compared with the morning. Summit winds around 10-25 mph. Gusts around 25-35 mph are possible on exposed ground. Summit cloud becomes more persistent later. Rain is forecast during this period.
78
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 mixed night to camp, mainly because of the wind.39Poor · 600 mView detailsHide details
Night beginning Wednesday 11 November 2026
Full overnight outlook
Too windy for an exposed pitch up around 900 m. Lower down, a mixed night to camp, mainly because of the wind. Gusts reach about 45 mph around 900 m and nearer 30 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 a little rain, with rain while you pitch and still falling when you pack up. 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.
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 psammite, a hard, sandy rock that has been squeezed and heated. It grips well when dry and is fair when wet. It is generally solid and blocky. 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 mphRain0.6 mm
Main factorsgusts of 25–35 mphwet rock likelySnow may fall on high ground. Deposits could make summer scrambling conditions inappropriate
Representative rock around the summit and along available routes
PsammiteTarvie Psammite Formation
Origin
Metamorphic
Broad rock-response group
Psammite, pelite or semipelite
Mapping
BGS Geology 50K · 1:50,000
Summit area
Psammite, pelite or semipelite in 76% of 17 BGS samples within 350 m
Psammite is a hard, sandy rock that has been squeezed and heated. It grips well when dry and is fair when wet. It is generally solid and blocky. 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.
Gulvain
psammite, pelite or semipelite
Geological detail and BGS records
Mapped variation
3 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
PsammiteTarvie Psammite Formation252–976 m samplesSeen on Gulvain
Psammite is a hard, sandy rock that has been squeezed and heated. It grips well when dry and is fair when wet. It is generally solid and blocky.
BGS record →
Summit-area sample
PeliteDruim Na Saille Pelite Formation
Schist is a flaky, mica-rich rock that splits into layers. It has only fair grip when dry and is slippery when wet, as the mica gives it a greasy sheen. It splits easily along its layers, so flakes and ledges can be loose, and it is often grassy and vegetated.
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 Gulvain on Wednesday 11 November 2026. It asks about intentions, not whether you actually went out. No name or account is needed.
Summit wind · 08:00-17:0015-35 mph northerlySummit gusts · 08:00-17:0035-45 mphFeels like-14 to -10°CPrecipitationUp to around 2 mmCloud-free summit estimate60%Cloud base through day1,000-1,700 mFreezing level400-700 mDaylightSunrise 07:54 · Sunset 16:14 · 8.3 hours daylight
The day on the hill
A mixed day on Gulvain, with snow on the tops and a bitter wind chill.
Snow and navigation
Snow is forecast on the tops during the morning and afternoon. The air freezing level is roughly 500 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 1000 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 northerly wind of 15–35 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.
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 500–800 m mid-morning. The air should be clear, so expect far-reaching views whenever the tops come out of the cloud.
Rain and ground
Snow arrives around midday.
Warmth and kit
On the tops it will be around -6 to -2°C, feeling like -14 to -10°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. 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 4:15pm, 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. 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 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 15-35 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. Summit cloud becomes more persistent later. Rain is forecast during this period.
39
Afternoon · 12:00–17:00
MixedSummit winds around 20-30 mph. Gusts around 30-40 mph are possible on exposed ground. Rain is forecast during this period.
68
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: a frost, down to -3°C.39Poor · 600 mView detailsHide details
Night beginning Thursday 12 November 2026
Full overnight outlook
A poor night to camp on open ground. Gusts reach about 30 mph on open ground, so peg out well and use the guylines. Look for shelter from the north. It should stay dry. 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
15 mph / 22 mph
Typical / low
0.2°C / 0.0°C · much of the night
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
Low
600 m39 · poor
Wind / gust
18 mph / 27 mph
Typical / low
-0.4°C / -0.6°C · much of the night
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
Low
900 m39 · poor
Wind / gust
21 mph / 31 mph
Typical / low
-2.3°C / -2.7°C · much of the night
In cloud
7% 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 35–45 mph could throw you off balance on exposed moves and ridges. The rock around the summit is mostly psammite, a hard, sandy rock that has been squeezed and heated. It grips well when dry and is fair when wet. It is generally solid and blocky. 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 gust35-45 mphRain0.8 mm
Main factorsgusts of 35–45 mphwet rock likelySnow may fall on high ground. Deposits could make summer scrambling conditions inappropriate
Representative rock around the summit and along available routes
PsammiteTarvie Psammite Formation
Origin
Metamorphic
Broad rock-response group
Psammite, pelite or semipelite
Mapping
BGS Geology 50K · 1:50,000
Summit area
Psammite, pelite or semipelite in 76% of 17 BGS samples within 350 m
Psammite is a hard, sandy rock that has been squeezed and heated. It grips well when dry and is fair when wet. It is generally solid and blocky. 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.
Gulvain
psammite, pelite or semipelite
Geological detail and BGS records
Mapped variation
3 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
PsammiteTarvie Psammite Formation252–976 m samplesSeen on Gulvain
Psammite is a hard, sandy rock that has been squeezed and heated. It grips well when dry and is fair when wet. It is generally solid and blocky.
BGS record →
Summit-area sample
PeliteDruim Na Saille Pelite Formation
Schist is a flaky, mica-rich rock that splits into layers. It has only fair grip when dry and is slippery when wet, as the mica gives it a greasy sheen. It splits easily along its layers, so flakes and ledges can be loose, and it is often grassy and vegetated.
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 Gulvain on Thursday 12 November 2026. It asks about intentions, not whether you actually went out. No name or account is needed.
A poor day on the tops of Gulvain, with sleet or snow on the tops and the summit in cloud for most of the day.
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 600 to 1000 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 1000 m between 08:00 and 17:00 (local time). The amount settling is uncertain and will vary with melting and drifting. There is a risk of blizzard conditions in the afternoon, when snow and strong winds coincide. Paths and footprints can quickly disappear beneath falling and blowing snow. 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 westerly wind of 15–30 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.
Cloud and visibility
Expect the summit to be in cloud for most of the day. The cloud base could be as low as 500–800 m around midday. 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. Where snow covers the ground, the sky and hillside can merge into a featureless white view, making it difficult to judge slope or direction. Do not rely on following a visible path. Avoid exposed routes if you cannot navigate safely in these conditions, and turn back before visibility deteriorates.
Rain and ground
Sleet and snow for much of the day. Some forecast models keep it drier in the afternoon.
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 600–900 m, so it will be below freezing on the tops. 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 4:10pm, so allow time to get off the hill before dark, and carry a head torch.
Forecast confidence
The forecast models disagree on how strong the wind will be, so it could be noticeably stronger than this. 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 4.8 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.
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 15-25 mph. Gusts around 25-35 mph are possible on exposed ground. Rain is forecast during this period.
28
Afternoon · 12:00–17:00
PoorSummit winds around 20-30 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. Rain is possible during the afternoon, but forecast models disagree on whether it will fall.
10
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 40 mph and around 10 mm of rain). Lower down, a mixed night to camp, mainly because of the wind.38Poor · 600 mView detailsHide details
Night beginning Friday 13 November 2026
Full overnight outlook
Too windy for an exposed pitch up around 900 m. Lower down, a mixed night to camp, mainly because of the wind. 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. Pitch low down and in real shelter, or leave it for another night. Expect a wet night, around 10 mm of rain, with rain while you pitch and still falling when you pack up. 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. 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: 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 m49 · mixed
Wind / gust
20 mph / 27 mph
Typical / low
3.8°C / 3.3°C · much of the night
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
High
600 m38 · poor
Wind / gust
24 mph / 33 mph
Typical / low
3.3°C / 2.8°C · much of the night
In cloud
60% of modelled night
Condensation
High
900 m19 · very poor
Wind / gust
30 mph / 41 mph
Typical / low
1.3°C / 0.7°C · much of the night
In cloud
100% 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 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 psammite, a hard, sandy rock that has been squeezed and heated. It grips well when dry and is fair when wet. It is generally solid and blocky. 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 gust35-45 mphRain5.1 mm
Main factorsgusts of 35–45 mphwet rock likelymuch of the route may be in cloud
Representative rock around the summit and along available routes
PsammiteTarvie Psammite Formation
Origin
Metamorphic
Broad rock-response group
Psammite, pelite or semipelite
Mapping
BGS Geology 50K · 1:50,000
Summit area
Psammite, pelite or semipelite in 76% of 17 BGS samples within 350 m
Psammite is a hard, sandy rock that has been squeezed and heated. It grips well when dry and is fair when wet. It is generally solid and blocky. 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.
Gulvain
psammite, pelite or semipelite
Geological detail and BGS records
Mapped variation
3 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
PsammiteTarvie Psammite Formation252–976 m samplesSeen on Gulvain
Psammite is a hard, sandy rock that has been squeezed and heated. It grips well when dry and is fair when wet. It is generally solid and blocky.
BGS record →
Summit-area sample
PeliteDruim Na Saille Pelite Formation
Schist is a flaky, mica-rich rock that splits into layers. It has only fair grip when dry and is slippery when wet, as the mica gives it a greasy sheen. It splits easily along its layers, so flakes and ledges can be loose, and it is often grassy and vegetated.
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 Gulvain on Friday 13 November 2026. It asks about intentions, not whether you actually went out. No name or account is needed.
A poor day on the tops of Gulvain, with sleet or snow on the tops and the summit in cloud for most of the day.
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 1000 to 1200 m above sea level. Snow can fall below this, but its lower limit is uncertain.
Wind
On the summit expect a westerly wind of 20–35 mph for most of the day, with gusts of 30–40 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.
Cloud and visibility
Expect the summit to be in cloud for most of the day. The cloud base could be as low as 500–800 m mid-afternoon. 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 2–5 mm in total, measured as melted water, so any snow would lie deeper. Totals are uncertain and could be higher.
Warmth and kit
On the tops it will be around -2 to 2°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. 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
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 1.7 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 25-35 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. Rain is forecast during this period. Rain is possible during the morning, but forecast models disagree on whether it will fall.
9
Afternoon · 12:00–17:00
PoorSummit 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. Rain is forecast during this period. Rain is forecast during the afternoon, but models differ considerably on the amount.
6
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: around 10 mm of rain.39Poor · 600 mView detailsHide details
Night beginning Saturday 14 November 2026
Full overnight outlook
A poor night to camp on open ground. Gusts reach about 30 mph around 900 m and nearer 20 mph around 300 m, so peg out well and use the guylines. Look for shelter from the west. Expect a wet night, around 10 mm of rain, mostly early on, so you'll likely pitch in the rain. 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. 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.
Cloud at the reference camping height may hide the Moon. 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 m47 · mixed
Wind / gust
13 mph / 21 mph
Typical / low
3.5°C / 3.3°C · much of the night
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
High
600 m39 · poor
Wind / gust
16 mph / 25 mph
Typical / low
3.1°C / 2.4°C · much of the night
In cloud
100% of modelled night
Condensation
High
900 m32 · poor
Wind / gust
20 mph / 32 mph
Typical / low
1.2°C / 0.6°C · much of the night
In cloud
100% 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. Snow is likely on the rock and ledges, so it becomes a winter route. Gusts of 30–40 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 psammite, a hard, sandy rock that has been squeezed and heated. It grips well when dry and is fair when wet. It is generally solid and blocky. 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 gust30-40 mphRain5.4 mm
Main factorsgusts of 30–40 mphwet rock likelymuch of the route may be in cloud
Representative rock around the summit and along available routes
PsammiteTarvie Psammite Formation
Origin
Metamorphic
Broad rock-response group
Psammite, pelite or semipelite
Mapping
BGS Geology 50K · 1:50,000
Summit area
Psammite, pelite or semipelite in 76% of 17 BGS samples within 350 m
Psammite is a hard, sandy rock that has been squeezed and heated. It grips well when dry and is fair when wet. It is generally solid and blocky. 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.
Gulvain
psammite, pelite or semipelite
Geological detail and BGS records
Mapped variation
3 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
PsammiteTarvie Psammite Formation252–976 m samplesSeen on Gulvain
Psammite is a hard, sandy rock that has been squeezed and heated. It grips well when dry and is fair when wet. It is generally solid and blocky.
BGS record →
Summit-area sample
PeliteDruim Na Saille Pelite Formation
Schist is a flaky, mica-rich rock that splits into layers. It has only fair grip when dry and is slippery when wet, as the mica gives it a greasy sheen. It splits easily along its layers, so flakes and ledges can be loose, and it is often grassy and vegetated.
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 Gulvain on Saturday 14 November 2026. It asks about intentions, not whether you actually went out. No name or account is needed.
A poor day on the tops of Gulvain, with sleet or snow on the tops and cloud coming and going on the summit.
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 900 to 1100 m above sea level. Snow can fall below this, but its lower limit is uncertain.
Wind
On the summit expect light winds of up to 15 mph, mainly southerly, with gusts of 15–25 mph at the windiest. Lower down on the open hillside the wind will be light, under 5 mph.
Cloud and visibility
Expect the summit to be in cloud for most of the day. The cloud base could be as low as 500–800 m early in the morning. 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
Sleet and snow for much of the day. Expect 2–5 mm in total, measured as melted water, so any snow would lie deeper. Totals are uncertain and could be higher. It will be wet underfoot after recent rain.
Warmth and kit
On the tops it will be around -2 to 2°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. 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
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 4.4 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.
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 10-20 mph. Gusts around 15-25 mph are possible on exposed ground. Rain is forecast during this period. Rain is possible during the morning, but forecast models disagree on whether it will fall.
42
Afternoon · 12:00–17:00
PoorSummit winds around 10-20 mph. Gusts around 15-25 mph are possible on exposed ground. Rain is forecast during this period. Rain is forecast during the afternoon, but models differ considerably on the amount.
39
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 the wind: a frost, down to -1°C.54Mixed · 600 mView detailsHide details
Night beginning Sunday 15 November 2026
Full overnight outlook
A mixed night to camp, mainly because of the wind. Gusts reach about 30 mph around 900 m and nearer 20 mph around 300 m, so peg out well and use the guylines. Look for shelter from the southeast. It should stay dry. 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 up around 900 m, down to about -1°C. A warm 3-season or 3–4 season bag rated to about -2°C comfort, and a warm mat, should do. Allow more if you sleep cold.
Cloud at the reference camping height may hide the Moon. 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 m59 · mixed
Wind / gust
11 mph / 20 mph
Typical / low
2.1°C / 1.1°C · much of the night
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
High
600 m54 · mixed
Wind / gust
13 mph / 24 mph
Typical / low
2.1°C / 1.0°C · much of the night
In cloud
100% of modelled night
Condensation
High
900 m39 · poor
Wind / gust
16 mph / 30 mph
Typical / low
0.3°C / -0.8°C · much of the night
In cloud
100% 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 -2°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. Cloud on the tops may make route-finding and retreat harder. The rock around the summit is mostly psammite, a hard, sandy rock that has been squeezed and heated. It grips well when dry and is fair when wet. It is generally solid and blocky. 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 gust15-25 mphRain3.0 mm
Main factorswet rock likelymuch of the route may be in cloudSnow is likely to be lying on high ground, with further snowfall possible during the day
Representative rock around the summit and along available routes
PsammiteTarvie Psammite Formation
Origin
Metamorphic
Broad rock-response group
Psammite, pelite or semipelite
Mapping
BGS Geology 50K · 1:50,000
Summit area
Psammite, pelite or semipelite in 76% of 17 BGS samples within 350 m
Psammite is a hard, sandy rock that has been squeezed and heated. It grips well when dry and is fair when wet. It is generally solid and blocky. 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.
Gulvain
psammite, pelite or semipelite
Geological detail and BGS records
Mapped variation
3 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
PsammiteTarvie Psammite Formation252–976 m samplesSeen on Gulvain
Psammite is a hard, sandy rock that has been squeezed and heated. It grips well when dry and is fair when wet. It is generally solid and blocky.
BGS record →
Summit-area sample
PeliteDruim Na Saille Pelite Formation
Schist is a flaky, mica-rich rock that splits into layers. It has only fair grip when dry and is slippery when wet, as the mica gives it a greasy sheen. It splits easily along its layers, so flakes and ledges can be loose, and it is often grassy and vegetated.
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 Gulvain on Sunday 15 November 2026. It asks about intentions, not whether you actually went out. No name or account is needed.
Summit wind · 08:00-17:0020-35 mph southeasterlySummit gusts · 08:00-17:0035-45 mphFeels like-12 to -8°CPrecipitationLittle or noneCloud-free summit estimate40%Cloud base through day400-1,100 mFreezing level700-1,000 mDaylightSunrise 08:03 · Sunset 16:07 · 8.1 hours daylight
The day on the hill
A poor day on the tops of Gulvain, with a blustery wind and cloud coming and going on the summit.
Wind
On the summit expect a south-easterly 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 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 75–85 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 mid-morning. The cloud base could be as low as 400–700 m mid-morning. 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
Mostly dry, but some forecast models bring rain in the afternoon. It will be wet underfoot after recent rain.
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 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 4:05pm, 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 6.6 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 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. Summit cloud is more persistent early in this period, with better prospects later.
49
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. Some forecast models bring rain during the afternoon, while others keep it mostly dry.
22
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 and around 9 mm of rain.9Poor · 600 mView detailsHide details
Night beginning Monday 16 November 2026
Full overnight outlook
Not a night to camp on the open hill. Gusts reach about 65 mph around 900 m and nearer 50 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. Expect a wet night, around 9 mm of rain, with rain while you pitch and still falling when you pack up. Up around 900 m you'd likely be in cloud for part of the night: damp, and hard to find your way if you need to move. A frost up around 900 m, down to about -1°C. A warm 3-season or 3–4 season bag rated to about -2°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 m9 · very poor
Wind / gust
30 mph / 48 mph
Typical / low
4.5°C / 1.3°C · much of the night
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
Moderate
600 m9 · very poor
Wind / gust
36 mph / 57 mph
Typical / low
2.0°C / 0.9°C · much of the night
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
High
900 m0 · very poor
Wind / gust
43 mph / 67 mph
Typical / low
0.5°C / -1.3°C · much of the night
In cloud
47% 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 -2°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. After recent rain the rock may still be wet in places, especially shaded holds and drainage lines. Icy patches are likely on the rock, which makes it treacherous without winter kit. 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 psammite, a hard, sandy rock that has been squeezed and heated. It grips well when dry and is fair when wet. It is generally solid and blocky. These are general notes for each rock type, taken from geological maps around the summit, so the rock on your line may differ.
Rock surfaceDry overhead; seepage uncertainPeak gust35-45 mphRain0.1 mm
Main factorsgusts of 35–45 mphdamp or incompletely dried rock possiblemuch of the route may be in cloud
Representative rock around the summit and along available routes
PsammiteTarvie Psammite Formation
Origin
Metamorphic
Broad rock-response group
Psammite, pelite or semipelite
Mapping
BGS Geology 50K · 1:50,000
Summit area
Psammite, pelite or semipelite in 76% of 17 BGS samples within 350 m
Psammite is a hard, sandy rock that has been squeezed and heated. It grips well when dry and is fair when wet. It is generally solid and blocky. 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.
Gulvain
psammite, pelite or semipelite
Geological detail and BGS records
Mapped variation
3 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
PsammiteTarvie Psammite Formation252–976 m samplesSeen on Gulvain
Psammite is a hard, sandy rock that has been squeezed and heated. It grips well when dry and is fair when wet. It is generally solid and blocky.
BGS record →
Summit-area sample
PeliteDruim Na Saille Pelite Formation
Schist is a flaky, mica-rich rock that splits into layers. It has only fair grip when dry and is slippery when wet, as the mica gives it a greasy sheen. It splits easily along its layers, so flakes and ledges can be loose, and it is often grassy and vegetated.
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 Gulvain on Monday 16 November 2026. It asks about intentions, not whether you actually went out. No name or account is needed.
A poor day on the tops of Gulvain, with sleet or snow on the tops and very strong, gusty winds.
Snow and navigation
Sleet or snow is possible on the tops in the morning, with small temperature changes affecting the mix. The air freezing level is roughly 700 to 1000 m above sea level. Snow can fall below this, but its lower limit is uncertain. There is a risk of blizzard conditions in the morning, when snow and strong winds coincide. Paths and footprints can quickly disappear beneath falling and blowing snow. 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.
Things to watch
Burns could rise quickly through the day and overnight. Timings are rough. Turn back if a crossing looks unsafe.
Wind
On the summit expect a southerly wind of 30–45 mph for most of the day, with gusts of 50–60 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 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 75–85 mph.
Cloud and visibility
Expect the summit to be in cloud for most of the day. The cloud base could be as low as 700–1000 m mid-afternoon. A few forecast models bring it lower still, to around 400–700 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. Visibility may drop briefly in showers. Where snow covers the ground, the sky and hillside can merge into a featureless white view, making it difficult to judge slope or direction. Do not rely on following a visible path. Avoid exposed routes if you cannot navigate safely in these conditions, and turn back before visibility deteriorates.
Rain and ground
Sleet and snow for much of the day, becoming heavier later. Expect 5–10 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 -12 to -8°C in the wind. The freezing level is around 700–1000 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
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 0 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
Severe hill conditionsSummit winds around 35-45 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. Rain is forecast during this period.
-6
Afternoon · 12:00–17:00
PoorMore rain is expected. Summit winds around 30-40 mph. Gusts around 45-55 mph are possible on exposed ground. Gusts this strong can knock you off balance, so take care near edges and on narrow ridges. Rain is forecast during this period.
7
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 around 18 mm of rain). Lower down, a poor night to camp on open ground.19Poor · 600 mView detailsHide details
Night beginning Tuesday 17 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 a wet night, around 18 mm of rain, with rain while you pitch and still falling when you pack up. 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. Overnight lows of about 3°C at 900 m. A 3-season bag rated to about 2°C comfort, and a warm mat, should do. Allow more if you sleep cold.
Cloud at the reference camping height may hide the Moon. Illumination describes the sunlit part of the Moon, not brightness at your pitch.
Overnight window: 17 Nov, 17:00 GMT to 18 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
25 mph / 34 mph
Typical / low
7.2°C / 6.5°C · much of the night
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
High
600 m19 · very poor
Wind / gust
30 mph / 40 mph
Typical / low
5.7°C / 5.1°C · much of the night
In cloud
100% of modelled night
Condensation
High
900 m9 · very poor
Wind / gust
35 mph / 51 mph
Typical / low
3.5°C / 3.1°C · much of the night
In cloud
100% of modelled night
Condensation
High
Warmth planning: As a broad starting point, consider a 3-season bag with an ISO/EN comfort rating at or below about 2°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 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. Cloud on the tops may make route-finding and retreat harder. The rock around the summit is mostly psammite, a hard, sandy rock that has been squeezed and heated. It grips well when dry and is fair when wet. It is generally solid and blocky. 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 mphRain9.6 mm
Main factorsgusts of 50–60 mphwet rock likelymuch of the route may be in cloud
Representative rock around the summit and along available routes
PsammiteTarvie Psammite Formation
Origin
Metamorphic
Broad rock-response group
Psammite, pelite or semipelite
Mapping
BGS Geology 50K · 1:50,000
Summit area
Psammite, pelite or semipelite in 76% of 17 BGS samples within 350 m
Psammite is a hard, sandy rock that has been squeezed and heated. It grips well when dry and is fair when wet. It is generally solid and blocky. 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.
Gulvain
psammite, pelite or semipelite
Geological detail and BGS records
Mapped variation
3 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
PsammiteTarvie Psammite Formation252–976 m samplesSeen on Gulvain
Psammite is a hard, sandy rock that has been squeezed and heated. It grips well when dry and is fair when wet. It is generally solid and blocky.
BGS record →
Summit-area sample
PeliteDruim Na Saille Pelite Formation
Schist is a flaky, mica-rich rock that splits into layers. It has only fair grip when dry and is slippery when wet, as the mica gives it a greasy sheen. It splits easily along its layers, so flakes and ledges can be loose, and it is often grassy and vegetated.
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 Gulvain on Tuesday 17 November 2026. It asks about intentions, not whether you actually went out. No name or account is needed.
Gulvain 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.
