Respecting the outdoors: Scotland

For the second installation of our Respect the Outdoors series, we've teamed up with our ambassador Holly Rees to highlight what us adventurers can do to minmise our impact on our Northbound adventures.

So, whether you're climbing, camping or hiking - we've got some tips & advice for you!

Scotland is a fantastic place to explore, with mountains, glens, islands and lochs at our fingertips just waiting for adventure.

Although it is within the UK, did you know there are some differences in access rights between Scotland and the rest or the UK? There is more freedom with the Right of Responsible Access (aka Right to Roam), but that doesn’t mean we can go anywhere and do anything.

We must still use common sense and think of others, including the environment, landowners and other users. The Scottish Outdoor Access Code is a useful resource to have on hand.

Ticks are particularly prevalent in Scotland and can transmit diseases, the most notable being Lyme Disease (caused by Borrelia burgdorferi).

To protect yourself, use tick repellent, cover exposed skin, and regularly check for ticks.

If you find a tick attached to your skin, remove it promptly with a tick remover (these are available for a few pounds) and monitor for any signs of illness. If you have any concerns, consult your doctor.

There are countless amazing crags in Scotland, and we encourage you to explore them!

To ensure everyone can enjoy these natural wonders, it's essential to respect the environment and local regulations. Full guidelines are available here, but here are some key principles to help you climb responsibly:

• Access Rights: Before you head out, verify specific access rights for the area. There might be seasonal restrictions due to wildlife protection or farming activities.
  
• Stick to Paths: Use designated access paths to reduce your impact on the environment and be courteous to landowners, respecting any signs.
  
• Chalk Management: Brush off any excess chalk from holds and rocks to preserve the natural appearance and prevent potential ecological damage.
  
• Consideration for Others: Be mindful of other climbers and outdoor enthusiasts. Share the space respectfully and maintain a peaceful atmosphere.

Enjoy your climbing adventure while ensuring the crags remain pristine for others and allowing nature to flourish!

Embark on the adventure of wild camping in Scotland by following these guidelines to respect the environment and landowners, ensuring an authentic and enjoyable experience.

Note that some regions, such as Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, have camping management zones during peak season, so always check local rules before setting out.

Some further guidance can be found here. You should always camp out of sight.

• Planning: Spontaneity sounds fun, but a little planning goes a long way. Choose less crowded areas, pack enough water and food, and make sure you can carry in (and out) all your equipment and rubbish.
  
  This includes human waste if possible—otherwise, bury excrement in a hole and cover it well. Ensure you do this a minimum of 30m from any water source. Take used tissues home. Camp away from roads, paths, buildings and livestock.
  
  
• Environmental Impact: Minimize your impact by choosing resilient surfaces and causing as little damage to vegetation as possible. Follow existing paths to reduce environmental damage, make your journey easier, and avoid getting bitten.
  
  
• Leave No Trace: Protect the environment, its vegetation and wildlife by minimizing disturbances and sticking to existing paths without altering the natural surroundings.
  
  Ensure you take everything you brought with you, including all litter. Leave the site as you found it, and take any rubbish left by others with you too.
  
  
• Cooking: Opt for stoves instead of fires for cooking. If fires are permitted, always adhere to local guidelines. Bring your own firewood, use a portable firepit to elevate the fire, ensure safety, and dispose of ashes properly.
  
  Remember, wildfires can easily be sparked, so exercise extreme caution and have plenty of water on hand.
  
  
• Wildlife: Avoid disturbing wildlife, securely store food, and keep dogs under control to prevent stress and harm to wildlife.
  
  
• Consideration: Be considerate of other users who also come to enjoy nature. Keep noise levels down, control pets and children, and maintain a respectful distance from others.

It may seem like a lot of rules, but by following these guidelines and using common sense, you'll have incredible adventures and create lasting memories!