Monthly guide · December
Outdoor Scotland in December: Deep Winter
December brings the shortest days, winter conditions on all hills above 500m, and the SAIS avalanche forecasts. The mountains are serious. The bothies are warm.
December at a glance
- Temperature
- 1–6°C
- Daylight
- 6.5–7.5 hours
- Rainfall
- 115mm
- Midges
- none
- Sunrise
- 08:45
- Sunset
- 15:45
Weather & conditions
The shortest days of the year — 6.5 hours at winter solstice. Snow covers hills above 500m most of December. Gales and storm systems are frequent. Temperature inversions create spectacular cloud seas in the glens. SAIS avalanche forecasts are issued daily for six mountain areas.
No midges. Six months until they return.
Our take on December
December is when Scotland's mountains demand respect. The days are impossibly short. The summit conditions are alpine. The avalanche risk is real. This is not the month for casual walking — it is the month for those with winter skills and the experience to use them. For everyone else, the coast, the forests, and the bothies offer their own winter rewards. The solstice bonfire at a remote bothy is one of the great Scottish outdoor traditions.
Best activities
- Winter mountaineering (for the equipped and skilled)
- Low-level forest walks
- Bothy nights
- Skiing at the five Scottish resorts
- Indoor climbing and preparation for the season
Hillwalking
Full winter conditions. SAIS avalanche forecasts are essential reading — issued daily for Lochaber, Glen Coe, Creag Meagaidh, Southern Cairngorms, Northern Cairngorms and Torridon. Ice axe, crampons and winter navigation skills are mandatory above 600m. Daylight is 6.5 hours — summit days must be planned with precision.
Mountain biking
Trail centres are rideable but conditions are challenging — mud, darkness, cold. Strathpuffer 24-hour race training begins. Riding in the dark is standard December fare. Lights, mudguards and a sense of humour are essential.
Wild camping
December wild camping is expedition-grade. Sub-zero temperatures, 6 hours of daylight, and potential for serious wind chill. Only for experienced winter campers with 4-season equipment. Bothy nights are the civilised alternative.
Sea kayaking
Not recommended. Short days, cold water (7–8°C), and winter storms.
Gear highlights
- Ice axe and crampons — essential above 600m
- Avalanche awareness — read SAIS daily
- Head torch with 6+ hour battery
- 4-season sleeping bag and insulated mat
- Emergency shelter (bothy bag)