Summit wind · 08:00-17:005-20 mph southeasterlySummit gusts · 08:00-17:0020-30 mphFeels like-8 to -4°CPrecipitationLittle or noneCloud-free summit estimate85%Cloud base through day700-1,000 mFreezing levelAbove summitDaylightSunrise 07:40 · Sunset 16:28 · 8.8 hours daylight
The day on the hill
A fine day on Sgùrr a' Mhaoraich: dry, with light winds and clear tops for most of the day.
Wind
On the summit expect a south-easterly wind of 5–20 mph for most of the day, with gusts of 20–30 mph at the windiest. Lower down on the open hillside it will be more like 5–15 mph.
Cloud and visibility
Any early cloud on the tops should clear soon after dawn. The cloud base could be as low as 700–1000 m early in the morning. A cloud sea is possible during the morning, with its estimated top around 1200–1500 m. The cloud top is close to summit height. The summit could remain in cloud, but a lower cloud top could allow it to emerge. This does not guarantee sunshine. In the shorter days, fog or low cloud below the tops can be slow to clear. Times are approximate model indications, not predicted fog burn-off times. 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
It should stay dry.
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 above the summits. Take a hat, gloves, a windproof and a spare warm layer.
Daylight
A short day, with only about 9 hours of daylight. Sunset is around 4:30pm, 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. 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 6.7 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
GoodSummit winds around 5-15 mph. Gusts around 15-25 mph are possible on exposed ground. Summit cloud is more persistent early in this period, with better prospects later.
83
Afternoon · 12:00–17:00
ExcellentSummit winds around 10-20 mph. Gusts around 20-30 mph are possible on exposed ground.
93
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: gusts of about 25 mph.59Mixed · 600 mView detailsHide details
Night beginning Thursday 5 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 southeast. It should stay dry. The air is damp below about 600 m, so expect heavy condensation. Leave the vents open. A cold night, down to about 2°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.
Clear spells may allow a view of the Moon. Illumination describes the sunlit part of the Moon, not brightness at your pitch.
Overnight window: 5 Nov, 17:00 GMT to 6 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 / 18 mph
Typical / low
3.4°C / 2.7°C · much of the night
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
High
600 m59 · mixed
Wind / gust
13 mph / 22 mph
Typical / low
3.4°C / 2.7°C · much of the night
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
High
900 m59 · mixed
Wind / gust
15 mph / 26 mph
Typical / low
2.6°C / 2.3°C · much of the night
In cloud
13% 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 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.
Good conditions for exposed scrambling. The rock should be mostly dry, though drainage lines and shaded holds may still be damp. Gusts of 20–30 mph will be noticeable on exposed 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. On the usual routes up you may also cross psammite banded with schist, which grips well on the harder bands when dry and is slippery on the mica-rich layers when wet. 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 gust20-30 mphRain0.0 mm
Representative rock around the summit and along available routes
PsammiteGlenfinnan Group
Origin
Metamorphic
Broad rock-response group
Psammite, pelite or semipelite
Mapping
BGS Geology 50K · 1:50,000
Summit area
Psammite, pelite or semipelite in 100% 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.
Sgùrr a' Mhaoraich
psammite, pelite or semipelite
Geological detail and BGS records
Mapped variation
4 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
PsammiteGlenfinnan GroupAround 1,016 mSeen on Sgùrr a' Mhaoraich
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 →
Route sample
Psammite and peliteGlenfinnan Group403–812 m samplesSeen on Sgùrr a' Mhaoraich
Psammite banded with schist is a hard, sandy rock with flakier, mica-rich layers. It grips well on the harder bands when dry and is slippery on the mica-rich layers when wet. The flaky layers split easily, so some flakes and ledges are loose.
BGS record →
Summit-area sample
Pelite and semipeliteGlenfinnan Group708–910 m samplesSeen on Sgùrr a' Mhaoraich
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.
BGS record →
Route sample
PsammiteTarvie Psammite FormationAround 200 mSeen on Sgùrr a' Mhaoraich
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.
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 Sgùrr a' Mhaoraich on Thursday 5 November 2026. It asks about intentions, not whether you actually went out. No name or account is needed.
Summit wind · 08:00-17:0010-20 mph southeasterlySummit gusts · 08:00-17:0015-25 mphFeels like-6 to -2°CPrecipitationLittle or noneCloud-free summit estimate55%Cloud base through day1,100-1,400 mFreezing levelAbove summitDaylightSunrise 07:42 · Sunset 16:26 · 8.7 hours daylight
The day on the hill
Dry, with light winds on Sgùrr a' Mhaoraich. Cloud could cover the tops and limit the views.
Wind
On the summit expect light winds of up to 15 mph, mainly south-easterly, with gusts of 15–25 mph at the windiest. Lower down on the open hillside the wind will be light, under 10 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. The cloud base could be as low as 600–900 m around midday.
Rain and ground
It should stay dry.
Warmth and kit
On the tops it will be around 0 to 4°C, feeling like -6 to -2°C in the wind. The freezing level is above the summits. Take a hat, gloves, a windproof and a spare warm layer.
Daylight
A short day, with only about 9 hours of daylight. Sunset is around 4:25pm, 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 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
GoodSummit winds around 10-20 mph. Gusts around 15-25 mph are possible on exposed ground. Summit cloud becomes more persistent later.
83
Afternoon · 12:00–17:00
ExcellentSummit winds around 10-20 mph. Gusts around 15-25 mph are possible on exposed ground.
90
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 cold: dry, with light winds.59Mixed · 600 mView detailsHide details
Night beginning Friday 6 November 2026
Full overnight outlook
A mixed night to camp, mainly because of the cold. Light winds on open ground, gusting no more than about 15 mph. It should stay dry. A cold night, down to about 2°C around 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 may affect views of the Moon. Illumination describes the sunlit part of the Moon, not brightness at your pitch.
Overnight window: 6 Nov, 17:00 GMT to 7 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
6 mph / 12 mph
Typical / low
4.5°C / 4.1°C · much of the night
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
Moderate
600 m59 · mixed
Wind / gust
7 mph / 15 mph
Typical / low
4.5°C / 4.1°C · much of the night
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
Moderate
900 m59 · mixed
Wind / gust
8 mph / 17 mph
Typical / low
2.6°C / 2.4°C · much of the night
In cloud
13% of modelled night
Condensation
Moderate
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.
Good conditions for exposed scrambling. The rock should be mostly dry, though drainage lines and shaded holds may still be damp. 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. On the usual routes up you may also cross psammite banded with schist, which grips well on the harder bands when dry and is slippery on the mica-rich layers when wet. 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 gust15-25 mphRain0.0 mm
Representative rock around the summit and along available routes
PsammiteGlenfinnan Group
Origin
Metamorphic
Broad rock-response group
Psammite, pelite or semipelite
Mapping
BGS Geology 50K · 1:50,000
Summit area
Psammite, pelite or semipelite in 100% 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.
Sgùrr a' Mhaoraich
psammite, pelite or semipelite
Geological detail and BGS records
Mapped variation
4 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
PsammiteGlenfinnan GroupAround 1,016 mSeen on Sgùrr a' Mhaoraich
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 →
Route sample
Psammite and peliteGlenfinnan Group403–812 m samplesSeen on Sgùrr a' Mhaoraich
Psammite banded with schist is a hard, sandy rock with flakier, mica-rich layers. It grips well on the harder bands when dry and is slippery on the mica-rich layers when wet. The flaky layers split easily, so some flakes and ledges are loose.
BGS record →
Summit-area sample
Pelite and semipeliteGlenfinnan Group708–910 m samplesSeen on Sgùrr a' Mhaoraich
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.
BGS record →
Route sample
PsammiteTarvie Psammite FormationAround 200 mSeen on Sgùrr a' Mhaoraich
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.
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 Sgùrr a' Mhaoraich on Friday 6 November 2026. It asks about intentions, not whether you actually went out. No name or account is needed.
Summit wind · 08:00-17:000-15 mph southeasterlySummit gusts · 08:00-17:005-15 mphFeels like-4 to 0°CPrecipitationLittle or noneCloud-free summit estimate90%Cloud base through day1,200-1,500 mFreezing levelAbove summitDaylightSunrise 07:44 · Sunset 16:24 · 8.7 hours daylight
The day on the hill
A fine day on Sgùrr a' Mhaoraich: dry, with light winds and clear tops for most of the day.
Wind
On the summit expect light winds of up to 10 mph, mainly south-easterly, with gusts of 5–15 mph at the windiest.
Cloud and visibility
The tops should stay mostly clear of cloud. 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. Mist or fog is possible in the valleys early on, clearing by about 4am. It will look largely cloudy overhead, but that cloud should mostly stay above the tops. 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 0 to 4°C, feeling like -4 to 0°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 9 hours of daylight. Sunset is around 4:25pm, 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. 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 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 5-15 mph. Gusts around 5-15 mph are possible on exposed ground.
90
Afternoon · 12:00–17:00
ExcellentSummit winds around 0-10 mph. Gusts around 0-10 mph are possible on exposed ground.
90
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: dry, with light winds.59Mixed · 600 mView detailsHide details
Night beginning Saturday 7 November 2026
Full overnight outlook
A mixed night to camp, mainly because of damp air. Light winds on open ground, gusting no more than about 15 mph. 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 cold night, down to about 2°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.
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.
Excellent conditions for exposed scrambling. The rock should be mostly dry, though drainage lines and shaded holds may still be damp. 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. On the usual routes up you may also cross psammite banded with schist, which grips well on the harder bands when dry and is slippery on the mica-rich layers when wet. 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 gust5-15 mphRain0.0 mm
Representative rock around the summit and along available routes
PsammiteGlenfinnan Group
Origin
Metamorphic
Broad rock-response group
Psammite, pelite or semipelite
Mapping
BGS Geology 50K · 1:50,000
Summit area
Psammite, pelite or semipelite in 100% 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.
Sgùrr a' Mhaoraich
psammite, pelite or semipelite
Geological detail and BGS records
Mapped variation
4 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
PsammiteGlenfinnan GroupAround 1,016 mSeen on Sgùrr a' Mhaoraich
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 →
Route sample
Psammite and peliteGlenfinnan Group403–812 m samplesSeen on Sgùrr a' Mhaoraich
Psammite banded with schist is a hard, sandy rock with flakier, mica-rich layers. It grips well on the harder bands when dry and is slippery on the mica-rich layers when wet. The flaky layers split easily, so some flakes and ledges are loose.
BGS record →
Summit-area sample
Pelite and semipeliteGlenfinnan Group708–910 m samplesSeen on Sgùrr a' Mhaoraich
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.
BGS record →
Route sample
PsammiteTarvie Psammite FormationAround 200 mSeen on Sgùrr a' Mhaoraich
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.
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 Sgùrr a' Mhaoraich on Saturday 7 November 2026. It asks about intentions, not whether you actually went out. No name or account is needed.
Summit wind · 08:00-17:000-10 mph easterlySummit gusts · 08:00-17:005-15 mphFeels like-2 to 2°CPrecipitationLittle or noneCloud-free summit estimate45%Cloud base through day500-1,400 mFreezing levelAbove summitDaylightSunrise 07:46 · Sunset 16:22 · 8.6 hours daylight
The day on the hill
A good day on Sgùrr a' Mhaoraich, though expect cloud on the tops early.
Wind
On the summit expect light winds of up to 10 mph, mainly easterly, with gusts of 5–15 mph at the windiest.
Cloud and visibility
Cloud on the tops early should lift off them by early afternoon. The cloud base could be as low as 500–800 m in the early afternoon. Mist or fog is possible in the valleys early on, clearing by about 11am.
Rain and ground
It should stay dry.
Warmth and kit
On the tops it will be around 0 to 4°C, feeling like -2 to 2°C in the wind. The freezing level is above the summits. Take a hat, gloves, a windproof and a spare warm layer.
Daylight
A short day, with only about 9 hours of daylight. Sunset is around 4:20pm, so allow time to get off the hill before dark, and carry a head torch.
Forecast confidence
Cloud heights are particularly hard to pin down today. 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 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.
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
MixedSummit winds around 0-10 mph. Gusts around 0-10 mph are possible on exposed ground.
66
Afternoon · 12:00–17:00
GoodSummit winds around 0-10 mph. Gusts around 5-15 mph are possible on exposed ground. Summit cloud is more persistent early in this period, with better prospects later.
83
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: dry, with light winds.54Mixed · 600 mView detailsHide details
Night beginning Sunday 8 November 2026
Full overnight outlook
A mixed night to camp, mainly because of damp air. Light winds on open ground, gusting no more than about 15 mph. 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 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.
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.
Good conditions for exposed scrambling. The rock should be mostly dry, though drainage lines and shaded holds may still be damp. 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. On the usual routes up you may also cross psammite banded with schist, which grips well on the harder bands when dry and is slippery on the mica-rich layers when wet. 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 gust5-15 mphRain0.0 mm
Main concernmuch of the route may be in cloud
Representative rock around the summit and along available routes
PsammiteGlenfinnan Group
Origin
Metamorphic
Broad rock-response group
Psammite, pelite or semipelite
Mapping
BGS Geology 50K · 1:50,000
Summit area
Psammite, pelite or semipelite in 100% 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.
Sgùrr a' Mhaoraich
psammite, pelite or semipelite
Geological detail and BGS records
Mapped variation
4 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
PsammiteGlenfinnan GroupAround 1,016 mSeen on Sgùrr a' Mhaoraich
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 →
Route sample
Psammite and peliteGlenfinnan Group403–812 m samplesSeen on Sgùrr a' Mhaoraich
Psammite banded with schist is a hard, sandy rock with flakier, mica-rich layers. It grips well on the harder bands when dry and is slippery on the mica-rich layers when wet. The flaky layers split easily, so some flakes and ledges are loose.
BGS record →
Summit-area sample
Pelite and semipeliteGlenfinnan Group708–910 m samplesSeen on Sgùrr a' Mhaoraich
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.
BGS record →
Route sample
PsammiteTarvie Psammite FormationAround 200 mSeen on Sgùrr a' Mhaoraich
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.
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 Sgùrr a' Mhaoraich on Sunday 8 November 2026. It asks about intentions, not whether you actually went out. No name or account is needed.
Summit wind · 08:00-17:005-15 mph easterlySummit gusts · 08:00-17:005-15 mphFeels like-6 to -2°CPrecipitationLittle or noneCloud-free summit estimate55%Cloud base through day500-800 mFreezing level800-1,100 mDaylightSunrise 07:49 · Sunset 16:20 · 8.5 hours daylight
The day on the hill
A good day on Sgùrr a' Mhaoraich: dry, with light winds.
Wind
On the summit expect light winds of up to 10 mph, mainly easterly, with gusts of 5–15 mph at the windiest. Lower down on the open hillside the wind will be light, under 5 mph.
Cloud and visibility
Cloud on the tops early should lift off them by early afternoon. The cloud base could be as low as 500–800 m in the early afternoon. Mist or fog is possible in the valleys early on, clearing by about 10am.
Rain and ground
It should stay dry.
Warmth and kit
On the tops it will be around -2 to 2°C, feeling like -6 to -2°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 9 hours of daylight. Sunset is around 4:20pm, so allow time to get off the hill before dark, and carry a head torch.
Forecast confidence
Cloud heights are particularly hard to pin down today. 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 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
MixedSummit winds around 5-15 mph. Gusts around 5-15 mph are possible on exposed ground.
61
Afternoon · 12:00–17:00
ExcellentSummit winds around 5-15 mph. Gusts around 5-15 mph are possible on exposed ground. Summit cloud is more persistent early in this period, with better prospects later.
86
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: dry, with light winds.59Mixed · 600 mView detailsHide details
Night beginning Monday 9 November 2026
Full overnight outlook
A mixed night to camp, mainly because of damp air. Light winds on open ground, gusting no more than about 20 mph. 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 cold night, down to about 1°C around 900 m. 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.
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.
Mixed conditions for exposed scrambling. The rock should be mostly dry, though drainage lines and shaded holds may still be damp. 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. On the usual routes up you may also cross psammite banded with schist, which grips well on the harder bands when dry and is slippery on the mica-rich layers when wet. 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 gust5-15 mphRain0.0 mm
Main concernmuch of the route may be in cloud
Representative rock around the summit and along available routes
PsammiteGlenfinnan Group
Origin
Metamorphic
Broad rock-response group
Psammite, pelite or semipelite
Mapping
BGS Geology 50K · 1:50,000
Summit area
Psammite, pelite or semipelite in 100% 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.
Sgùrr a' Mhaoraich
psammite, pelite or semipelite
Geological detail and BGS records
Mapped variation
4 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
PsammiteGlenfinnan GroupAround 1,016 mSeen on Sgùrr a' Mhaoraich
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 →
Route sample
Psammite and peliteGlenfinnan Group403–812 m samplesSeen on Sgùrr a' Mhaoraich
Psammite banded with schist is a hard, sandy rock with flakier, mica-rich layers. It grips well on the harder bands when dry and is slippery on the mica-rich layers when wet. The flaky layers split easily, so some flakes and ledges are loose.
BGS record →
Summit-area sample
Pelite and semipeliteGlenfinnan Group708–910 m samplesSeen on Sgùrr a' Mhaoraich
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.
BGS record →
Route sample
PsammiteTarvie Psammite FormationAround 200 mSeen on Sgùrr a' Mhaoraich
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.
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 Sgùrr a' Mhaoraich on Monday 9 November 2026. It asks about intentions, not whether you actually went out. No name or account is needed.
Summit wind · 08:00-17:0010-20 mph southerlySummit gusts · 08:00-17:0020-30 mphFeels like-10 to -6°CPrecipitationLittle or noneCloud-free summit estimate55%Cloud base through day1,200-1,500 mFreezing level800-1,100 mDaylightSunrise 07:51 · Sunset 16:18 · 8.4 hours daylight
The day on the hill
A good day on Sgùrr a' Mhaoraich: dry, with light winds.
Wind
On the summit expect a southerly wind of 10–20 mph for most of the day, with gusts of 20–30 mph at the windiest. Lower down on the open hillside the wind will be light, under 5 mph.
Cloud and visibility
The tops are likely to drift in and out of cloud, with the best chance of a clear summit mid-morning. 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. Mist or fog is possible in the valleys early on, clearing by about 4am.
Rain and ground
Mostly dry, but some forecast models bring rain in the afternoon.
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 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 4:20pm, 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. Cloud heights are particularly hard to pin down today. 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 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. Rain is possible during the main walking period, but its timing may shift by several hours.
84
Afternoon · 12:00–17:00
GoodSummit winds around 10-20 mph. Gusts around 20-30 mph are possible on exposed ground. Rain is possible during the afternoon, but forecast models disagree on whether it will fall. Rain is possible during the main walking period, but its timing may shift by several hours.
80
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: dry, with light winds.59Mixed · 600 mView detailsHide details
Night beginning Tuesday 10 November 2026
Full overnight outlook
A mixed night to camp, mainly because of damp air. Light winds on open ground, gusting no more than about 20 mph. The wind swings from southerly to northerly overnight, so a pitch sheltered at dusk may not be by morning. It should stay dry. The air is damp below about 600 m, so expect heavy condensation. Leave the vents open. A cold night, down to about 2°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.
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.
Fair conditions for exposed scrambling. It should stay mostly dry, but a passing shower could leave the rock damp and slippery. Gusts of 20–30 mph will be noticeable on exposed 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. On the usual routes up you may also cross psammite banded with schist, which grips well on the harder bands when dry and is slippery on the mica-rich layers when wet. 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 initially; rain possiblePeak gust20-30 mphRainPossible · 38%
Main concernrain possible despite mostly dry conditions being favoured
Representative rock around the summit and along available routes
PsammiteGlenfinnan Group
Origin
Metamorphic
Broad rock-response group
Psammite, pelite or semipelite
Mapping
BGS Geology 50K · 1:50,000
Summit area
Psammite, pelite or semipelite in 100% 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.
Sgùrr a' Mhaoraich
psammite, pelite or semipelite
Geological detail and BGS records
Mapped variation
4 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
PsammiteGlenfinnan GroupAround 1,016 mSeen on Sgùrr a' Mhaoraich
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 →
Route sample
Psammite and peliteGlenfinnan Group403–812 m samplesSeen on Sgùrr a' Mhaoraich
Psammite banded with schist is a hard, sandy rock with flakier, mica-rich layers. It grips well on the harder bands when dry and is slippery on the mica-rich layers when wet. The flaky layers split easily, so some flakes and ledges are loose.
BGS record →
Summit-area sample
Pelite and semipeliteGlenfinnan Group708–910 m samplesSeen on Sgùrr a' Mhaoraich
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.
BGS record →
Route sample
PsammiteTarvie Psammite FormationAround 200 mSeen on Sgùrr a' Mhaoraich
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.
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 Sgùrr a' Mhaoraich on Tuesday 10 November 2026. It asks about intentions, not whether you actually went out. No name or account is needed.
Summit wind · 08:00-17:0010-25 mph northerlySummit gusts · 08:00-17:0025-35 mphFeels like-10 to -6°CPrecipitationLittle or noneCloud-free summit estimate65%Cloud base through day900-1,200 mFreezing level600-900 mDaylightSunrise 07:53 · Sunset 16:16 · 8.4 hours daylight
The day on the hill
A good day on Sgùrr a' Mhaoraich: dry and breezy.
Wind
On the summit expect a northerly wind of 10–25 mph for most of the day, with gusts of 25–35 mph at the windiest. Lower down on the open hillside the wind will be light, under 10 mph. Gusts 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 early in the morning. The cloud base could be as low as 800–1100 m around midday. A few forecast models bring it lower still, to around 400–700 m. Mist or fog is possible in the valleys early on, clearing by about 7am.
Rain and ground
It should stay dry.
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 around 800–1100 m, so it will be below freezing on the tops. 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 4:15pm, 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 4.9 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 10-20 mph. Gusts around 15-25 mph are possible on exposed ground. Summit cloud becomes more persistent later.
91
Afternoon · 12:00–17:00
GoodSummit winds around 15-25 mph. Gusts around 25-35 mph are possible on exposed ground. Summit cloud is more persistent early in this period, with better prospects later.
72
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 -4°C.39Poor · 600 mView detailsHide details
Night beginning Wednesday 11 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 -4°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.
Did this match your night?Share a quick observation to help improve this beta forecast.Give feedback →
Daytime · exposed rockClimbing & scramblingBetaFair conditions for exposed scrambling: gusts of 25–35 mph.Mixed69View detailsHide details
Generic exposed-rock guidance
Full climbing & scrambling outlook
Fair conditions for exposed scrambling. The rock should be mostly dry, though drainage lines and shaded holds may still be damp. 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. On the usual routes up you may also cross psammite banded with schist, which grips well on the harder bands when dry and is slippery on the mica-rich layers when wet. 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 gust25-35 mphRain0.0 mm
Main concerngusts of 25–35 mph
Representative rock around the summit and along available routes
PsammiteGlenfinnan Group
Origin
Metamorphic
Broad rock-response group
Psammite, pelite or semipelite
Mapping
BGS Geology 50K · 1:50,000
Summit area
Psammite, pelite or semipelite in 100% 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.
Sgùrr a' Mhaoraich
psammite, pelite or semipelite
Geological detail and BGS records
Mapped variation
4 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
PsammiteGlenfinnan GroupAround 1,016 mSeen on Sgùrr a' Mhaoraich
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 →
Route sample
Psammite and peliteGlenfinnan Group403–812 m samplesSeen on Sgùrr a' Mhaoraich
Psammite banded with schist is a hard, sandy rock with flakier, mica-rich layers. It grips well on the harder bands when dry and is slippery on the mica-rich layers when wet. The flaky layers split easily, so some flakes and ledges are loose.
BGS record →
Summit-area sample
Pelite and semipeliteGlenfinnan Group708–910 m samplesSeen on Sgùrr a' Mhaoraich
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.
BGS record →
Route sample
PsammiteTarvie Psammite FormationAround 200 mSeen on Sgùrr a' Mhaoraich
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.
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 Sgùrr a' Mhaoraich on Wednesday 11 November 2026. It asks about intentions, not whether you actually went out. No name or account is needed.
Summit wind · 08:00-17:0015-25 mph northerlySummit gusts · 08:00-17:0025-35 mphFeels like-16 to -12°CPrecipitationUp to around 2 mmCloud-free summit estimate90%Freezing level200-500 mDaylightSunrise 07:55 · Sunset 16:14 · 8.3 hours daylight
The day on the hill
A good day on Sgùrr a' Mhaoraich, though expect 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 300 to 600 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.
Wind
On the summit expect a northerly wind of 15–25 mph for most of the day, with gusts of 25–35 mph at the windiest. Lower down on the open hillside the wind will be light, under 10 mph. Gusts 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 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
Snow is possible on the tops.
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 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 4:15pm, so allow time to get off the hill before dark, and carry a head torch.
Forecast confidence
Cloud heights are particularly hard to pin down today. It's still seven days off and could change, so check again nearer the time.
Sunshine context Model-grid estimate, not summit sunshine
The surrounding model grid indicates 7.9 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 15-25 mph. Gusts around 25-35 mph are possible on exposed ground.
80
Afternoon · 12:00–17:00
MixedSummit winds around 15-25 mph. Gusts around 25-35 mph are possible on exposed ground. Rain is forecast during this period.
69
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 a frost, down to -5°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 40 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. 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.
Clear spells may allow a view of the Moon. 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
20 mph / 29 mph
Typical / low
-2.7°C / -3.0°C · much of the night
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
Moderate
600 m39 · poor
Wind / gust
24 mph / 35 mph
Typical / low
-2.7°C / -3.0°C · much of the night
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
Moderate
900 m19 · very poor
Wind / gust
29 mph / 42 mph
Typical / low
-4.5°C / -4.9°C · much of the night
In cloud
0% 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 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. 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. On the usual routes up you may also cross psammite banded with schist, which grips well on the harder bands when dry and is slippery on the mica-rich layers when wet. 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 mphRain0.7 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
PsammiteGlenfinnan Group
Origin
Metamorphic
Broad rock-response group
Psammite, pelite or semipelite
Mapping
BGS Geology 50K · 1:50,000
Summit area
Psammite, pelite or semipelite in 100% 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.
Sgùrr a' Mhaoraich
psammite, pelite or semipelite
Geological detail and BGS records
Mapped variation
4 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
PsammiteGlenfinnan GroupAround 1,016 mSeen on Sgùrr a' Mhaoraich
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 →
Route sample
Psammite and peliteGlenfinnan Group403–812 m samplesSeen on Sgùrr a' Mhaoraich
Psammite banded with schist is a hard, sandy rock with flakier, mica-rich layers. It grips well on the harder bands when dry and is slippery on the mica-rich layers when wet. The flaky layers split easily, so some flakes and ledges are loose.
BGS record →
Summit-area sample
Pelite and semipeliteGlenfinnan Group708–910 m samplesSeen on Sgùrr a' Mhaoraich
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.
BGS record →
Route sample
PsammiteTarvie Psammite FormationAround 200 mSeen on Sgùrr a' Mhaoraich
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.
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 Sgùrr a' Mhaoraich on Thursday 12 November 2026. It asks about intentions, not whether you actually went out. No name or account is needed.
