Mild and poor visibility
22nd December 2025
The hills were damp and shrouded in cloud and mist for much of the day today. This seriously hampered observations of an already sparse snowpack.
That said, remnants of more recent snow were still present in small sheltered patches and behind boulders underfoot. Albeit these being subject to rapid thaw. Today’s trip up onto Meikle Pap sadly didn’t result in the view for which this Munro “Top” is famous.
But the greatest accumulations of snow will remain around coire rims and gully tops. Admittedly more limited on Lochnagar, but perhaps of greater number on the summits of Beinn a’Bhuird. Any remaining cornices will be prone to collapse.
Of the snow patches observed today, I was surprised just how well consolidated they were in the mild temperatures. I am sure they will soften up, but worthy of care if venturing anywhere steep tomorrow.
Some walkers near the Meikle Pap – Lochnagar Col. This was about as good as the visibility got today at 890 metres.
Light footwear for me today, but anything more extensive that this small snow patch and micro-spikes or a stiffer mountaineering boot might have been better. I was surprised just how firm the snow was despite the mild temperatures.
A Ptarmigan trying to seek some shelter behind some small rocks on Meikle Pap. Impressive these hardy birds! A joy to see something thriving in an otherwise harsh and monochrome environment.
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