Cairngorms mountain weather forecast.

Sat 21 Nov on the hillsA poor day on the tops in the Cairngorms, with snow on the tops and very strong, gusty winds. See wind, cloud base and timings

Winter conditions outlook

Snow on the hills

Cairngorms: the 4 outlook areas covering its hills. All winter outlooks

Cairngorm & Northern CorriesSignificant snow todayToday: Wind-drifted snow expected on east through south-east to south-facing slopes.

TodayWind-drifted snow expected on east through south-east to south-facing slopes.

Snow lying above about 400 m. A few centimetres of new snow today. Loose, soft snow underfoot. More snow to come: 5 to 10 cm on Tuesday.

Read the full outlook Snow on the hills, Fresh snow, Where the wind will put the snow, Spindrift, Cornices, Underfoot, Frozen turf, Snow to come

Snow on the hills

Expect snow lying above about 400 m. Drifts will be deepest on south-east-facing slopes, where soft snow may be knee-deep or more in hollows and gully tops.

Fresh snow

A few centimetres of new snow is forecast today. It will be deeper where the wind piles it into drifts.

Where the wind will put the snow

Expect fresh north-westerly winds, around 23 mph on the tops, to blow the snow about. It will pile into drifts on east through south-east to south-facing ground, especially below ridges, crags and corrie rims, and in gullies and hollows. Slopes facing into the wind will be scoured, with thinner snow and more rock and ice showing.

Spindrift

Spindrift is likely on and off through the day: loose snow lifted by the wind and blown towards the south-east. Heading north-westwards, into it, will be hard work, and visibility can drop sharply in gusts. Goggles make a big difference, keeping the snow out of your eyes so you can still see where you are going. Expect it to stream over crag tops and down east through south-east to south-facing gullies.

Cornices

Cornices are likely to grow above east and south-east-facing slopes because a 23 mph wind is strong enough to carry loose snow; and that wind will blow across the ridges from the north-west. A cornice is an overhanging lip of snow built out over the drop by the wind. It can break well back from the edge, so keep well away from it, especially in poor visibility, and do not linger below one, particularly as it warms.

Underfoot

Expect new, loose snow on top, with hard going in deeper drifts. Conditions will change through the day: thawing until 07:00, then refreezing.

Frozen turf

Turf is forecast to be frozen to about 6 cm at 1150 m; only a thin frozen crust at 850 m. Early in the winter the ground still holds summer warmth, so turf can stay soft for longer than the air suggests. Check before relying on it.

Snow to come

On Tuesday: 5 to 10 cm of snow expected on the tops, drifting onto west through north-west to north-facing slopes. On Wednesday: 5 to 10 cm of snow expected on the tops, drifting onto west through north-west to north-facing slopes.

Avalanches

Wind-drifted snow on steep slopes is the most common cause of avalanches in British hills, and it can stay unstable for a day or two after the wind drops. See the note below for where to find an avalanche forecast.

TomorrowWind-drifted snow expected on east through south-east to south-facing slopes.

Snow lying above about 500 m. A few centimetres of new snow over the three days to tomorrow. Loose, soft snow underfoot. More snow to come: 5 to 10 cm on Tuesday.

Read the full outlook Snow on the hills, Fresh snow, Where the wind will put the snow, Cornices, Underfoot, Frozen turf, Snow to come

Snow on the hills

Expect snow lying above about 500 m. Drifts will be deepest on south-east-facing slopes, where soft snow may be knee-deep or more in hollows and gully tops.

Fresh snow

A few centimetres of new snow is forecast over the three days to tomorrow. It will be deeper where the wind piles it into drifts.

Where the wind will put the snow

Expect fresh north-westerly winds, around 20 mph on the tops, to blow the snow about. It will pile into drifts on east through south-east to south-facing ground, especially below ridges, crags and corrie rims, and in gullies and hollows. Slopes facing into the wind will be scoured, with thinner snow and more rock and ice showing.

Cornices

Cornices are likely to grow above east and south-east-facing slopes because a 20 mph wind is strong enough to carry loose snow; and that wind will blow across the ridges from the north-west. A cornice is an overhanging lip of snow built out over the drop by the wind. It can break well back from the edge, so keep well away from it, especially in poor visibility, and do not linger below one, particularly as it warms.

Underfoot

Expect new, loose snow on top, with hard going in deeper drifts.

Frozen turf

Turf is forecast to be frozen to about 9 cm at 1150 m; frozen to about 4 cm at 850 m. Early in the winter the ground still holds summer warmth, so turf can stay soft for longer than the air suggests. Check before relying on it.

Snow to come

Avalanches

Tue 17 NovWind-drifted snow expected on west through north-west to north-facing slopes.

Snow lying above about 800 m. 5 to 10 cm of new snow on Tuesday. Loose, soft snow underfoot. More snow to come: 5 to 10 cm on Wednesday.

Read the full outlook Snow on the hills, Fresh snow, Where the wind will put the snow, Spindrift, Cornices, Underfoot, Frozen turf, Snow to come

Snow on the hills

Expect snow lying above about 800 m. Drifts will be deepest on south-east and west through north-west to north-facing slopes, where soft snow may be knee-deep or more in hollows and gully tops.

Fresh snow

5 to 10 cm of new snow is forecast on Tuesday. It will be deeper where the wind piles it into drifts.

Where the wind will put the snow

Expect gale-force south-easterly winds, around 45 mph on the tops, to blow the snow about. It will pile into drifts on west through north-west to north-facing ground, especially below ridges, crags and corrie rims, and in gullies and hollows. Slopes facing into the wind will be scoured, with thinner snow and more rock and ice showing. Older drifts from earlier winds are also likely on south-east-facing slopes.

Spindrift

Spindrift is likely from late morning into the afternoon: loose snow lifted by the wind and blown towards the north-west. Heading south-eastwards, into it, will be hard work, and visibility can drop sharply in gusts. Goggles make a big difference, keeping the snow out of your eyes so you can still see where you are going. Expect it to stream over crag tops and down west through north-west to north-facing gullies.

Cornices

Cornices are likely to grow above north-west and north-facing slopes because there will be plenty of new snow to move; a 45 mph wind is strong enough to carry loose snow; and that wind will blow across the ridges from the south-east. A cornice is an overhanging lip of snow built out over the drop by the wind. It can break well back from the edge, so keep well away from it, especially in poor visibility, and do not linger below one, particularly as it warms.

Underfoot

Expect new, loose snow on top, with hard going in deeper drifts.

Frozen turf

Turf is forecast to be frozen to about 9 cm at 1150 m; frozen to about 3 cm at 850 m. Early in the winter the ground still holds summer warmth, so turf can stay soft for longer than the air suggests. Check before relying on it.

Snow to come

On Wednesday: 5 to 10 cm of snow expected on the tops, drifting onto west through north-west to north-facing slopes.

Avalanches

Wed 18 NovWind-drifted snow expected on west through north-west to north-facing slopes.

Snow lying above about 800 m. 5 to 10 cm of new snow on Wednesday. Loose, soft snow underfoot.

Read the full outlook Snow on the hills, Fresh snow, Where the wind will put the snow, Spindrift, Cornices, Underfoot, Frozen turf

Snow on the hills

Expect snow lying above about 800 m. Drifts will be deepest on east through south-east to south and west through north-west to north-facing slopes, where soft snow may be knee-deep or more in hollows and gully tops.

Fresh snow

5 to 10 cm of new snow is forecast on Wednesday. It will be deeper where the wind piles it into drifts.

Where the wind will put the snow

Expect strong south-easterly winds, around 28 mph on the tops, to blow the snow about. It will pile into drifts on west through north-west to north-facing ground, especially below ridges, crags and corrie rims, and in gullies and hollows. Slopes facing into the wind will be scoured, with thinner snow and more rock and ice showing.

Spindrift

Spindrift is likely all day: loose snow lifted by the wind and blown towards the north-west. Heading south-eastwards, into it, will be hard work, and visibility can drop sharply in gusts. Goggles make a big difference, keeping the snow out of your eyes so you can still see where you are going. Expect it to stream over crag tops and down west through north-west to north-facing gullies.

Cornices

Cornices are likely to grow above west through north-west to north-facing slopes because there will be plenty of new snow to move; a 28 mph wind is strong enough to carry loose snow; and that wind will blow across the ridges from the south-east. A cornice is an overhanging lip of snow built out over the drop by the wind. It can break well back from the edge, so keep well away from it, especially in poor visibility, and do not linger below one, particularly as it warms.

Underfoot

Expect new, loose snow on top, with hard going in deeper drifts.

Frozen turf

Turf is forecast to be frozen to about 9 cm at 1150 m; only a thin frozen crust at 850 m. Early in the winter the ground still holds summer warmth, so turf can stay soft for longer than the air suggests. Check before relying on it.

Avalanches

Thu 19 NovWind-drifted snow expected on west through north-west to north-facing slopes.

Snow lying above about 800 m. 10 to 20 cm of new snow over the three days to Thursday. Loose, soft snow underfoot.

Read the full outlook Snow on the hills, Fresh snow, Where the wind will put the snow, Spindrift, Cornices, Underfoot, Frozen turf

Snow on the hills

Expect snow lying above about 800 m. Drifts will be deepest on south-east and west through north-west to north-facing slopes, where soft snow may be knee-deep or more in hollows and gully tops.

Fresh snow

10 to 20 cm of new snow is forecast over the three days to Thursday. It will be deeper where the wind piles it into drifts.

Where the wind will put the snow

Expect fresh south-easterly winds, around 23 mph on the tops, to blow the snow about. It will pile into drifts on west through north-west to north-facing ground, especially below ridges, crags and corrie rims, and in gullies and hollows. Slopes facing into the wind will be scoured, with thinner snow and more rock and ice showing.

Spindrift

Spindrift is likely from the morning into the afternoon: loose snow lifted by the wind and blown towards the north-west. Heading south-eastwards, into it, will be hard work, and visibility can drop sharply in gusts. Goggles make a big difference, keeping the snow out of your eyes so you can still see where you are going. Expect it to stream over crag tops and down west through north-west to north-facing gullies.

Cornices

Cornices are likely to grow above west through north-west to north-facing slopes because there will be plenty of new snow to move; a 23 mph wind is strong enough to carry loose snow; and that wind will blow across the ridges from the south-east. A cornice is an overhanging lip of snow built out over the drop by the wind. It can break well back from the edge, so keep well away from it, especially in poor visibility, and do not linger below one, particularly as it warms.

Underfoot

Expect new, loose snow on top, with hard going in deeper drifts.

Frozen turf

Turf is forecast to be frozen to about 10 cm at 1150 m; frozen to about 4 cm at 850 m. Early in the winter the ground still holds summer warmth, so turf can stay soft for longer than the air suggests. Check before relying on it.

Avalanches

Fri 20 NovSome new snow expected on top of the existing cover.

Snow lying above about 800 m. 5 to 10 cm of new snow over the three days to Friday. Loose, soft snow underfoot.

Read the full outlook Snow on the hills, Fresh snow, Cornices, Underfoot, Frozen turf

Snow on the hills

Expect snow lying above about 800 m. Drifts will be deepest on south-east and west through north-west to north-facing slopes, where soft snow may be knee-deep or more in hollows and gully tops.

Fresh snow

5 to 10 cm of new snow is forecast over the three days to Friday.

Cornices

Cornices are likely to grow above west through north-west to north-facing slopes because there will be plenty of new snow to move. A cornice is an overhanging lip of snow built out over the drop by the wind. It can break well back from the edge, so keep well away from it, especially in poor visibility, and do not linger below one, particularly as it warms.

Underfoot

Expect new, loose snow on top, with hard going in deeper drifts.

Frozen turf

Turf is forecast to be frozen to about 12 cm at 1150 m; frozen to about 6 cm at 850 m. Early in the winter the ground still holds summer warmth, so turf can stay soft for longer than the air suggests. Check before relying on it.

Braeriach & Cairn ToulSignificant snow todayToday: Wind-drifted snow expected on south-east-facing slopes.

TodayWind-drifted snow expected on south-east-facing slopes.

Snow lying above about 600 m. A few centimetres of new snow today. Wind-packed underfoot, with softer pockets. More snow to come: 5 to 10 cm on Tuesday.

Read the full outlook Snow on the hills, Fresh snow, Where the wind will put the snow, Spindrift, Cornices, Underfoot, Frozen turf, Snow to come

Snow on the hills

Expect snow lying above about 600 m.

Fresh snow

A few centimetres of new snow is forecast today. It will be deeper where the wind piles it into drifts.

Where the wind will put the snow

Expect strong north-westerly winds, around 25 mph on the tops, to blow the snow about. It will pile into drifts on south-east-facing ground, especially below ridges, crags and corrie rims, and in gullies and hollows. Slopes facing into the wind will be scoured, with thinner snow and more rock and ice showing.

Spindrift

Spindrift is likely in the afternoon: loose snow lifted by the wind and blown towards the south-east. Heading north-westwards, into it, will be hard work, and visibility can drop sharply in gusts. Goggles make a big difference, keeping the snow out of your eyes so you can still see where you are going. Expect it to stream over crag tops and down south-east-facing gullies.

Cornices

Cornices are likely to grow above south-east-facing slopes because a 25 mph wind is strong enough to carry loose snow; and that wind will blow across the ridges from the north-west. A cornice is an overhanging lip of snow built out over the drop by the wind. It can break well back from the edge, so keep well away from it, especially in poor visibility, and do not linger below one, particularly as it warms.

Underfoot

Expect wind-packed snow that carries you in places, with softer pockets in sheltered spots. Conditions will change through the day: thawing until 08:00, then refreezing.

Frozen turf

Turf is forecast to be frozen to about 6 cm at 1180 m; only a thin frozen crust at 880 m. Early in the winter the ground still holds summer warmth, so turf can stay soft for longer than the air suggests. Check before relying on it.

Snow to come

Avalanches

TomorrowWind-drifted snow expected on south-east-facing slopes.

Snow lying above about 800 m. A few centimetres of new snow over the three days to tomorrow. Wind-packed underfoot, with softer pockets. More snow to come: 5 to 10 cm on Tuesday.

Read the full outlook Snow on the hills, Fresh snow, Where the wind will put the snow, Spindrift, Cornices, Underfoot, Frozen turf, Snow to come

Snow on the hills

Expect snow lying above about 800 m.

Fresh snow

A few centimetres of new snow is forecast over the three days to tomorrow. It will be deeper where the wind piles it into drifts.

Where the wind will put the snow

Expect fresh north-westerly winds, around 21 mph on the tops, to blow the snow about. It will pile into drifts on south-east-facing ground, especially below ridges, crags and corrie rims, and in gullies and hollows. Slopes facing into the wind will be scoured, with thinner snow and more rock and ice showing.

Spindrift

Spindrift is likely from the morning into the afternoon: loose snow lifted by the wind and blown towards the south-east. Heading north-westwards, into it, will be hard work, and visibility can drop sharply in gusts. Goggles make a big difference, keeping the snow out of your eyes so you can still see where you are going. Expect it to stream over crag tops and down south-east-facing gullies.

Cornices

Small cornices may start to form above south-east-facing edges where the wind piles up loose snow. Even a small one can give way, so keep back from the edge.

Underfoot

Expect wind-packed snow that carries you in places, with softer pockets in sheltered spots.

Frozen turf

Turf is forecast to be frozen to about 9 cm at 1180 m; frozen to about 4 cm at 880 m. Early in the winter the ground still holds summer warmth, so turf can stay soft for longer than the air suggests. Check before relying on it.

Snow to come

Avalanches

Tue 17 NovWind-drifted snow expected on west through north-west to north-facing slopes.

Snow lying above about 800 m. 5 to 10 cm of new snow on Tuesday. Loose, soft snow underfoot. More snow to come: 5 to 10 cm on Wednesday.

Read the full outlook Snow on the hills, Fresh snow, Where the wind will put the snow, Spindrift, Cornices, Underfoot, Frozen turf, Snow to come

Snow on the hills

Expect snow lying above about 800 m. Drifts will be deepest on north-west-facing slopes, where soft snow may be knee-deep or more in hollows and gully tops.

Fresh snow

5 to 10 cm of new snow is forecast on Tuesday. It will be deeper where the wind piles it into drifts.

Where the wind will put the snow

Expect gale-force south-easterly winds, around 46 mph on the tops, to blow the snow about. It will pile into drifts on west through north-west to north-facing ground, especially below ridges, crags and corrie rims, and in gullies and hollows. Slopes facing into the wind will be scoured, with thinner snow and more rock and ice showing.

Spindrift

Cornices

Cornices are likely to grow above north-west-facing slopes because there will be plenty of new snow to move; a 46 mph wind is strong enough to carry loose snow; and that wind will blow across the ridges from the south-east. A cornice is an overhanging lip of snow built out over the drop by the wind. It can break well back from the edge, so keep well away from it, especially in poor visibility, and do not linger below one, particularly as it warms.

Underfoot

Expect new, loose snow on top, with hard going in deeper drifts.

Frozen turf

Turf is forecast to be frozen to about 9 cm at 1180 m; only a thin frozen crust at 880 m. Early in the winter the ground still holds summer warmth, so turf can stay soft for longer than the air suggests. Check before relying on it.

Snow to come

On Wednesday: 5 to 10 cm of snow expected on the tops, drifting onto west through north-west to north-facing slopes.

Avalanches

Wed 18 NovWind-drifted snow expected on west through north-west to north-facing slopes.

Snow lying above about 800 m. A few centimetres of new snow on Wednesday. Loose, soft snow underfoot.

Read the full outlook Snow on the hills, Fresh snow, Where the wind will put the snow, Spindrift, Cornices, Underfoot, Frozen turf

Snow on the hills

Expect snow lying above about 800 m. Drifts will be deepest on south-east and west through north-west to north-facing slopes, where soft snow may be knee-deep or more in hollows and gully tops.

Fresh snow

A few centimetres of new snow is forecast on Wednesday. It will be deeper where the wind piles it into drifts.

Where the wind will put the snow

Expect fresh south-easterly winds, around 24 mph on the tops, to blow the snow about. It will pile into drifts on west through north-west to north-facing ground, especially below ridges, crags and corrie rims, and in gullies and hollows. Slopes facing into the wind will be scoured, with thinner snow and more rock and ice showing.

Spindrift

Cornices

Cornices are likely to grow above west and north-west-facing slopes because there will be plenty of new snow to move; a 24 mph wind is strong enough to carry loose snow; and that wind will blow across the ridges from the south-east. A cornice is an overhanging lip of snow built out over the drop by the wind. It can break well back from the edge, so keep well away from it, especially in poor visibility, and do not linger below one, particularly as it warms.

Underfoot

Expect new, loose snow on top, with hard going in deeper drifts.

Frozen turf

Avalanches

Thu 19 NovWind-drifted snow expected on west through north-west to north-facing slopes.

Snow lying above about 800 m. 10 to 20 cm of new snow over the three days to Thursday. Loose, soft snow underfoot.

Read the full outlook Snow on the hills, Fresh snow, Where the wind will put the snow, Spindrift, Cornices, Underfoot, Frozen turf

Snow on the hills

Expect snow lying above about 800 m. Drifts will be deepest on west through north-west to north-facing slopes, where soft snow may be knee-deep or more in hollows and gully tops.

Fresh snow

10 to 20 cm of new snow is forecast over the three days to Thursday. It will be deeper where the wind piles it into drifts.

Where the wind will put the snow

Spindrift

Cornices

Cornices are likely to grow above west and north-west-facing slopes because there will be plenty of new snow to move; a 23 mph wind is strong enough to carry loose snow; and that wind will blow across the ridges from the south-east. A cornice is an overhanging lip of snow built out over the drop by the wind. It can break well back from the edge, so keep well away from it, especially in poor visibility, and do not linger below one, particularly as it warms.

Underfoot

Expect new, loose snow on top, with hard going in deeper drifts.

Frozen turf

Turf is forecast to be frozen to about 10 cm at 1180 m; frozen to about 3 cm at 880 m. Early in the winter the ground still holds summer warmth, so turf can stay soft for longer than the air suggests. Check before relying on it.

Avalanches

Fri 20 NovWind-drifted snow expected on west through north-west to north-facing slopes.

Snow lying above about 800 m. A few centimetres of new snow over the three days to Friday. Loose, soft snow underfoot.

Read the full outlook Snow on the hills, Fresh snow, Where the wind will put the snow, Cornices, Underfoot, Frozen turf

Snow on the hills

Expect snow lying above about 800 m. Drifts will be deepest on west and north-west-facing slopes, where soft snow may be knee-deep or more in hollows and gully tops.

Fresh snow

A few centimetres of new snow is forecast over the three days to Friday. It will be deeper where the wind piles it into drifts.

Where the wind will put the snow

Expect fresh south-easterly winds, around 17 mph on the tops, to blow the snow about. It will pile into drifts on west through north-west to north-facing ground, especially below ridges, crags and corrie rims, and in gullies and hollows. Slopes facing into the wind will be scoured, with thinner snow and more rock and ice showing.

Cornices

Cornices are likely to grow above west and north-west-facing slopes because that wind will blow across the ridges from the south-east. A cornice is an overhanging lip of snow built out over the drop by the wind. It can break well back from the edge, so keep well away from it, especially in poor visibility, and do not linger below one, particularly as it warms.

Underfoot

Expect new, loose snow on top, with hard going in deeper drifts.

Frozen turf

Turf is forecast to be frozen to about 12 cm at 1180 m; frozen to about 5 cm at 880 m. Early in the winter the ground still holds summer warmth, so turf can stay soft for longer than the air suggests. Check before relying on it.

Avalanches

Glenshee & Angus GlensSignificant from TuesdayTue 17 Nov: Wind-drifted snow expected on west through north-west to north-facing slopes.

TodayLittle or no lying snow expected on the hills.

Little or no snow lying yet. More snow to come: 10 to 20 cm on Tuesday.

Read the full outlook Snow on the hills, Frozen turf, Snow to come

Snow on the hills

Expect little or no lying snow. Old patches may survive in sheltered gullies.

Frozen turf

Turf is not expected to be frozen, so frozen-turf scrambles and winter routes will not be in condition.

Snow to come

On Tuesday: 10 to 20 cm of snow expected on the tops, drifting onto west through north-west to north-facing slopes. On Wednesday: 10 to 20 cm of snow expected on the tops, drifting onto west through north-west to north-facing slopes.

TomorrowLittle or no lying snow expected on the hills.

Little or no snow lying yet. Turf frozen to about 4 cm at 1000 m. More snow to come: 10 to 20 cm on Tuesday.

Read the full outlook Snow on the hills, Frozen turf, Snow to come

Snow on the hills

Expect little or no lying snow. Old patches may survive in sheltered gullies.

Frozen turf

Turf is forecast to be frozen to about 4 cm at 1000 m; not frozen at 700 m. Early in the winter the ground still holds summer warmth, so turf can stay soft for longer than the air suggests. Check before relying on it.

Snow to come

Tue 17 NovWind-drifted snow expected on west through north-west to north-facing slopes.

Snow lying above about 900 m. 5 to 10 cm of new snow on Tuesday. Loose, soft snow underfoot. More snow to come: 10 to 20 cm on Wednesday.

Read the full outlook Snow on the hills, Fresh snow, Where the wind will put the snow, Spindrift, Cornices, Underfoot, Frozen turf, Snow to come

Snow on the hills

Expect snow lying above about 900 m. Drifts will be deepest on west through north-west to north-facing slopes, where soft snow may be knee-deep or more in hollows and gully tops.

Fresh snow

5 to 10 cm of new snow is forecast on Tuesday. It will be deeper where the wind piles it into drifts.

Where the wind will put the snow

Spindrift

Cornices

Cornices are likely to grow above west through north-west to north-facing slopes because there will be plenty of new snow to move; a 46 mph wind is strong enough to carry loose snow; and that wind will blow across the ridges from the south-east. A cornice is an overhanging lip of snow built out over the drop by the wind. It can break well back from the edge, so keep well away from it, especially in poor visibility, and do not linger below one, particularly as it warms.

Underfoot

Expect new, loose snow on top, with hard going in deeper drifts.

Frozen turf

Snow to come

On Wednesday: 10 to 20 cm of snow expected on the tops, drifting onto west through north-west to north-facing slopes.

Avalanches

Wed 18 NovWind-drifted snow expected on west through north-west to north-facing slopes.

Snow lying above about 900 m. 5 to 10 cm of new snow on Wednesday. Loose, soft snow underfoot.

Read the full outlook Snow on the hills, Fresh snow, Where the wind will put the snow, Spindrift, Cornices, Underfoot, Frozen turf

Snow on the hills

Expect snow lying above about 900 m. Drifts will be deepest on west through north-west to north-facing slopes, where soft snow may be knee-deep or more in hollows and gully tops.

Fresh snow

5 to 10 cm of new snow is forecast on Wednesday. It will be deeper where the wind piles it into drifts.

Where the wind will put the snow

Expect strong south-easterly winds, around 29 mph on the tops, to blow the snow about. It will pile into drifts on west through north-west to north-facing ground, especially below ridges, crags and corrie rims, and in gullies and hollows. Slopes facing into the wind will be scoured, with thinner snow and more rock and ice showing.

Spindrift

Cornices

Cornices are likely to grow above west through north-west to north-facing slopes because there will be plenty of new snow to move; a 29 mph wind is strong enough to carry loose snow; and that wind will blow across the ridges from the south-east. A cornice is an overhanging lip of snow built out over the drop by the wind. It can break well back from the edge, so keep well away from it, especially in poor visibility, and do not linger below one, particularly as it warms.

Underfoot

Expect new, loose snow on top, with hard going in deeper drifts.

Frozen turf

Avalanches

Thu 19 NovWind-drifted snow expected on south-west through west to north-west-facing slopes.

Snow lying above about 900 m. 10 to 20 cm of new snow over the three days to Thursday. Loose, soft snow underfoot.

Read the full outlook Snow on the hills, Fresh snow, Where the wind will put the snow, Spindrift, Cornices, Underfoot, Frozen turf

Snow on the hills

Expect snow lying above about 900 m. Drifts will be deepest on west through north-west to north-facing slopes, where soft snow may be knee-deep or more in hollows and gully tops.

Fresh snow

10 to 20 cm of new snow is forecast over the three days to Thursday. It will be deeper where the wind piles it into drifts.

Where the wind will put the snow

Expect strong easterly winds, around 35 mph on the tops, to blow the snow about. It will pile into drifts on south-west through west to north-west-facing ground, especially below ridges, crags and corrie rims, and in gullies and hollows. Slopes facing into the wind will be scoured, with thinner snow and more rock and ice showing. Older drifts from earlier winds are also likely on north and south-facing slopes.

Spindrift

Spindrift is likely all day: loose snow lifted by the wind and blown towards the west. Heading eastwards, into it, will be hard work, and visibility can drop sharply in gusts. Goggles make a big difference, keeping the snow out of your eyes so you can still see where you are going. Expect it to stream over crag tops and down south-west through west to north-west-facing gullies.

Cornices

Cornices are likely to grow above south-west through west to north-west-facing slopes because there will be plenty of new snow to move; a 35 mph wind is strong enough to carry loose snow; and that wind will blow across the ridges from the east. A cornice is an overhanging lip of snow built out over the drop by the wind. It can break well back from the edge, so keep well away from it, especially in poor visibility, and do not linger below one, particularly as it warms.

Underfoot

Expect new, loose snow on top, with hard going in deeper drifts.

Frozen turf

Turf is forecast to be frozen to about 5 cm at 1000 m; not frozen at 700 m. Early in the winter the ground still holds summer warmth, so turf can stay soft for longer than the air suggests. Check before relying on it.

Avalanches

Fri 20 NovWind-drifted snow expected on south-west through west to north-west-facing slopes.

Snow lying above about 900 m. 5 to 10 cm of new snow over the three days to Friday. Loose, soft snow underfoot.

Read the full outlook Snow on the hills, Fresh snow, Where the wind will put the snow, Cornices, Underfoot, Frozen turf

Snow on the hills

Expect snow lying above about 900 m. Drifts will be deepest on west through north-west to north-facing slopes, where soft snow may be knee-deep or more in hollows and gully tops.

Fresh snow

5 to 10 cm of new snow is forecast over the three days to Friday. It will be deeper where the wind piles it into drifts.

Where the wind will put the snow

Expect strong easterly winds, around 27 mph on the tops, to blow the snow about. It will pile into drifts on south-west through west to north-west-facing ground, especially below ridges, crags and corrie rims, and in gullies and hollows. Slopes facing into the wind will be scoured, with thinner snow and more rock and ice showing. Older drifts from earlier winds are also likely on north and south-facing slopes.

Cornices

Cornices are likely to grow above south-west through west to north-west-facing slopes because there will be plenty of new snow to move; a 27 mph wind is strong enough to carry loose snow; and that wind will blow across the ridges from the east. A cornice is an overhanging lip of snow built out over the drop by the wind. It can break well back from the edge, so keep well away from it, especially in poor visibility, and do not linger below one, particularly as it warms.

Underfoot

Expect new, loose snow on top, with hard going in deeper drifts.

Frozen turf

Turf is forecast to be frozen to about 8 cm at 1000 m; only a thin frozen crust at 700 m. Early in the winter the ground still holds summer warmth, so turf can stay soft for longer than the air suggests. Check before relying on it.

Avalanches

Lochnagar & DeesideSignificant from TuesdayTue 17 Nov: Wind-drifted snow expected on west through north-west to north-facing slopes.

TodayLittle or no lying snow expected on the hills.

Little or no snow lying yet. More snow to come: 10 to 20 cm on Tuesday.

Read the full outlook Snow on the hills, Frozen turf, Snow to come

Snow on the hills

Expect little or no lying snow. Old patches may survive in sheltered gullies.

Frozen turf

Turf is not expected to be frozen, so frozen-turf scrambles and winter routes will not be in condition.

Snow to come

TomorrowLittle or no lying snow expected on the hills.

Little or no snow lying yet. Turf frozen to about 5 cm at 1050 m. More snow to come: 10 to 20 cm on Tuesday.

Read the full outlook Snow on the hills, Frozen turf, Snow to come

Snow on the hills

Expect little or no lying snow. Old patches may survive in sheltered gullies.

Frozen turf

Turf is forecast to be frozen to about 5 cm at 1050 m; not frozen at 750 m. Early in the winter the ground still holds summer warmth, so turf can stay soft for longer than the air suggests. Check before relying on it.

Snow to come

Tue 17 NovWind-drifted snow expected on west through north-west to north-facing slopes.

Snow lying above about 700 m. 5 to 10 cm of new snow on Tuesday. Loose, soft snow underfoot. More snow to come: 10 to 20 cm on Wednesday.

Read the full outlook Snow on the hills, Fresh snow, Where the wind will put the snow, Spindrift, Cornices, Underfoot, Frozen turf, Snow to come

Snow on the hills

Expect snow lying above about 700 m. Drifts will be deepest on west and north-west-facing slopes, where soft snow may be knee-deep or more in hollows and gully tops.

Fresh snow

5 to 10 cm of new snow is forecast on Tuesday. It will be deeper where the wind piles it into drifts.

Where the wind will put the snow

Expect strong south-easterly winds, around 37 mph on the tops, to blow the snow about. It will pile into drifts on west through north-west to north-facing ground, especially below ridges, crags and corrie rims, and in gullies and hollows. Slopes facing into the wind will be scoured, with thinner snow and more rock and ice showing.

Spindrift

Cornices

Cornices are likely to grow above west through north-west to north-facing slopes because there will be plenty of new snow to move; a 37 mph wind is strong enough to carry loose snow; and that wind will blow across the ridges from the south-east. A cornice is an overhanging lip of snow built out over the drop by the wind. It can break well back from the edge, so keep well away from it, especially in poor visibility, and do not linger below one, particularly as it warms.

Underfoot

Expect new, loose snow on top, with hard going in deeper drifts.

Frozen turf

Snow to come

On Wednesday: 10 to 20 cm of snow expected on the tops, drifting onto west through north-west to north-facing slopes.

Avalanches

Wed 18 NovWind-drifted snow expected on west through north-west to north-facing slopes.

Snow lying above about 900 m. 5 to 10 cm of new snow on Wednesday. Loose, soft snow underfoot.

Read the full outlook Snow on the hills, Fresh snow, Where the wind will put the snow, Spindrift, Cornices, Underfoot, Frozen turf

Snow on the hills

Expect snow lying above about 900 m. Drifts will be deepest on west through north-west to north-facing slopes, where soft snow may be knee-deep or more in hollows and gully tops.

Fresh snow

5 to 10 cm of new snow is forecast on Wednesday. It will be deeper where the wind piles it into drifts.

Where the wind will put the snow

Expect strong south-easterly winds, around 27 mph on the tops, to blow the snow about. It will pile into drifts on west through north-west to north-facing ground, especially below ridges, crags and corrie rims, and in gullies and hollows. Slopes facing into the wind will be scoured, with thinner snow and more rock and ice showing.

Spindrift

Cornices

Cornices are likely to grow above west through north-west to north-facing slopes because there will be plenty of new snow to move; a 27 mph wind is strong enough to carry loose snow; and that wind will blow across the ridges from the south-east. A cornice is an overhanging lip of snow built out over the drop by the wind. It can break well back from the edge, so keep well away from it, especially in poor visibility, and do not linger below one, particularly as it warms.

Underfoot

Expect new, loose snow on top, with hard going in deeper drifts.

Frozen turf

Avalanches

Thu 19 NovWind-drifted snow expected on south-west through west to north-west-facing slopes.

Snow lying above about 900 m. 10 to 20 cm of new snow over the three days to Thursday. Loose, soft snow underfoot.

Read the full outlook Snow on the hills, Fresh snow, Where the wind will put the snow, Spindrift, Cornices, Underfoot, Frozen turf

Snow on the hills

Expect snow lying above about 900 m. Drifts will be deepest on west through north-west to north-facing slopes, where soft snow may be knee-deep or more in hollows and gully tops.

Fresh snow

10 to 20 cm of new snow is forecast over the three days to Thursday. It will be deeper where the wind piles it into drifts.

Where the wind will put the snow

Expect strong easterly winds, around 26 mph on the tops, to blow the snow about. It will pile into drifts on south-west through west to north-west-facing ground, especially below ridges, crags and corrie rims, and in gullies and hollows. Slopes facing into the wind will be scoured, with thinner snow and more rock and ice showing. Older drifts from earlier winds are also likely on north-facing slopes.

Spindrift

Cornices

Cornices are likely to grow above south-west through west to north-west-facing slopes because there will be plenty of new snow to move; a 26 mph wind is strong enough to carry loose snow; and that wind will blow across the ridges from the east. A cornice is an overhanging lip of snow built out over the drop by the wind. It can break well back from the edge, so keep well away from it, especially in poor visibility, and do not linger below one, particularly as it warms.

Underfoot

Expect new, loose snow on top, with hard going in deeper drifts.

Frozen turf

Turf is forecast to be frozen to about 6 cm at 1050 m; not frozen at 750 m. Early in the winter the ground still holds summer warmth, so turf can stay soft for longer than the air suggests. Check before relying on it.

Avalanches

Fri 20 NovWind-drifted snow expected on south-west through west to north-west-facing slopes.

Snow lying above about 900 m. 5 to 10 cm of new snow over the three days to Friday. Loose, soft snow underfoot.

Read the full outlook Snow on the hills, Fresh snow, Where the wind will put the snow, Cornices, Underfoot, Frozen turf

Snow on the hills

Expect snow lying above about 900 m. Drifts will be deepest on west through north-west to north-facing slopes, where soft snow may be knee-deep or more in hollows and gully tops.

Fresh snow

5 to 10 cm of new snow is forecast over the three days to Friday. It will be deeper where the wind piles it into drifts.

Where the wind will put the snow

Expect fresh easterly winds, around 16 mph on the tops, to blow the snow about. It will pile into drifts on south-west through west to north-west-facing ground, especially below ridges, crags and corrie rims, and in gullies and hollows. Slopes facing into the wind will be scoured, with thinner snow and more rock and ice showing. Older drifts from earlier winds are also likely on north-facing slopes.

Cornices

Cornices are likely to grow above south-west through west to north-west-facing slopes because there will be plenty of new snow to move; and that wind will blow across the ridges from the east. A cornice is an overhanging lip of snow built out over the drop by the wind. It can break well back from the edge, so keep well away from it, especially in poor visibility, and do not linger below one, particularly as it warms.

Underfoot

Expect new, loose snow on top, with hard going in deeper drifts.

Frozen turf

Turf is forecast to be frozen to about 8 cm at 1050 m; only a thin frozen crust at 750 m. Early in the winter the ground still holds summer warmth, so turf can stay soft for longer than the air suggests. Check before relying on it.

Avalanches

Written from a computer model of the weather and snow, not from reports on the hill. Conditions on the ground can differ, so look and judge for yourself.

Winter conditions outlook: Mountain Conditions by Spatial Terrain Ltd, used with permission. Issued 15 November 2026 at 13:25 UTC.

Choose your hills and day.

Each regional brief uses a high-ground level that suits the terrain, from 500 m on Dartmoor and in the Peak District to 900 m in the highest ranges.

Mountain Weather brief

Cairngorms

Saturday 21 November 2026 · The Cairngorm plateau and eastern high tops

Confidence: Unavailable Why?

A comparable model-confidence estimate is not available for this forecast.

What matters most

A poor day on the tops in the Cairngorms, with snow on the tops and very strong, gusty winds.

High-ground wind · 900 m30-40 mph southerly Gusts · 900 m45-55 mph Cloud base1400-1800 m Feels like · 900 m-10 to -6°C

Regional median

Sunshine and sky

Little sunshine. Very little direct sunshine is indicated.

Modelled sunshine0 h0% of daylight

Early0 h sunshine

Midday0 h sunshine

LaterTiming unavailable

These are direct modelled sunshine hours during daylight, not the probability of sunshine. Cloud cover and summit cloud are assessed separately in the forecast above. The regional median prevents one unusually bright or dull summit cell defining the whole area.

Overnight forecast: 17:00–08:00 (UK local time), in Wild camping below.

Morning · 08:00–12:00MixedSummit winds around 20-35 mph. Gusts around 40-50 mph are possible on exposed ground. Gusts this strong can knock you off balance, so take care near edges and on narrow ridges. Some early summit cloud is possible.

Afternoon · 12:00–17:00PoorMore rain is expected. Summit winds around 25-45 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. Snow is forecast on some hills during this period.

Conservative regional grades across representative summits, so one sheltered hill does not overstate the wider area.

High-ground wind (900 m)

At around 900 m, expect a southerly wind of 30–40 mph, gusting 45–55 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.

Walking impact

Gusts of 45–55 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.

Rain and showers

A band of snow moves in around midday. Expect up to 2 mm in total, measured as melted water, so any snow would lie deeper. On some hills, snow is possible on the tops. Snow is forecast on some higher tops in the afternoon. The air freezing level is roughly 800 to 1000 m above sea level. Snow can fall below this, but its lower limit is uncertain. On some higher summits 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.

Cloud-free summits

Clear-summit estimate: about 60% early and about 55% around midday.

Cloud and visibility

The tops are likely to drift in and out of cloud, with the best chance of clear tops early on. The air should be clear, so expect far-reaching views whenever the tops come out of the cloud. 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.

Temperature and wind chill

At around 900 m it will be -2 to 2°C, feeling like -10 to -6°C in the wind. Take a hat, gloves, a windproof and a spare warm layer. Pack waterproofs too, and keep a warm layer dry in your pack.

Freezing level

The freezing level is around 700–1000 m, so it will be below freezing on the tops.

Daylight

Sunrise 08:08, Sunset 15:51, about 7.7 hours daylight.

Overnight · 17:00–08:00Wild campingBetaNot a night to camp on the open hill anywhere in this area: gusts of about 55 mph and around 9 mm of rain. 16Poor · 600 m View detailsHide details

Regional night beginning Saturday 21 November 2026

Full regional overnight outlook

Not a night to camp on the open hill anywhere in this area. Gusts reach about 55 mph around 900 m and nearer 40 mph around 300 m, enough to damage a tent on open ground. Check the forecast for the hill and height you have in mind, and don't assume lower ground will be sheltered. About 9 mm of rain is forecast overnight. 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 frost up around 900 m, down to about 0°C.

Overnight rain9.3 mmOpen ground · 600 m29 mph · gusts 47 mphMorning pack-upDampness possible

Moon overnight

Waxing gibbous moon

Illuminated disc: 91%
Moonrise: Outside this window
Moonset: 05:17 next morning GMT

Cloud and terrain vary across the area. Illumination describes the sunlit part of the Moon, not brightness at your pitch.

Overnight window: 21 Nov, 17:00 GMT to 22 Nov, 08:00 GMT. Approximate open-horizon times; hills can hide the Moon. Still take a headtorch.

Representative location: 57.070, -3.669. Times vary across the area.

Elevation reference (open ground)

300 m34 · poor

Wind / gust: 25 mph / 39 mph
Coldest: 2.7°C
In cloud: 0% of modelled night
Condensation: High

600 m16 · very poor

Wind / gust: 29 mph / 47 mph
Coldest: 1.9°C
In cloud: 40% of modelled night
Condensation: High

900 m7 · very poor

Wind / gust: 33 mph / 54 mph
Coldest: 0.0°C
In cloud: 93% of modelled night
Condensation: High

Open-hillside guidance across representative hills. Local shelter, ridges, tent design and the exact pitch can change conditions substantially. Read about sleeping-bag comfort ratings, pitching in strong winds or using the wild-camping forecast.

Daytime · exposed rockClimbing & scramblingBetaSnow is likely to be lying on some high ground, with further snowfall possible. Wet rock is likely. Gusts near 55 mph may affect balance on exposed rock. 0Poor · Very poor View detailsHide details

Regional rock conditions · sampled mountain terrain

Regional climbing & scrambling outlook

A broad guide to dampness and exposed rock across the area, not a forecast for every crag. Lower, sheltered crags and individual rock types may behave differently.

Conditions for exposed scrambling across the area look very poor (0/100). Rain is likely to leave rock wet. Polished slabs, vegetation and drainage lines may be notably worse. Gusts may reach about 55 mph on exposed ground, making crosswinds an important route consideration. Mapped summit-point geology across the representative hills includes granite, gneiss or gabbro. Rock can therefore respond differently to moisture between crags and routes.

Rock surfaceWet rock likelyExposed gust54 mphRain4.2 mm

Mapped rock across sampled summits1 broad familySummit samples, not a survey of every crag

granite, gneiss or gabbro 100% 8 representative summitsGenerally grippy when dry and often still positive when damp, but wet slabs, lichen, polish and drainage lines can remain slippery.

Representative summit-point samples across the region; individual crags and routes may differ.

Generic exposed hands-on-rock terrain across representative summits; mapped summit-point geology is a broad regional sample, not a named-route survey. Contains British Geological Survey materials © UKRI 2026. How to use the climbing and scrambling forecast.

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 Cairngorms on Saturday 21 November 2026. It asks about intentions, not whether you actually went out. No name or account is needed.

Open the questions to take part.

About the research and your privacy · Already been out? Share that experience instead

Weather data: Open-Meteo (CC BY 4.0). Adapted by Mountain Weather.

Updated 15 November 2026 at 16:26 UTC. See typical weekly and monthly conditions for Cairngorms.

More context for your hill day

Check the approach as well as the tops

Compare midge conditions by day and height, or look for a possible cloud inversion. For Snowdon and Tryfan, camera-derived cloud-base observations add a view of conditions already seen on the slopes.

Cairngorms midge forecast Cloud inversion forecast Snowdon and Tryfan cloud observations

Choosing a Munro in Scotland

Compare all 282 Munros in Munro Planner

Munro Planner compares every Munro by forecast, summit views and drive time, so you can see which hills look best before you choose. Each Munro has walking routes, times and OS map references.

Compare all 282 Munros Best Munros this weekend

Forecasts built around recognisable hill country.

Twenty distinct regions replace inherited service boundaries. Each uses a representative height suited to its terrain; named summits retain their exact height and exposure.