Monthly guide · March
Outdoor Scotland in March: Spring Begins
March marks the transition from winter to spring. Snow lingers on the summits, days are lengthening fast, and the first warm spells bring walkers back to the hills.
March at a glance
- Temperature
- 2–8°C
- Daylight
- 10.5–12.5 hours
- Rainfall
- 85mm
- Midges
- none
- Sunrise
- 06:45
- Sunset
- 18:15
Weather & conditions
A transition month. Snow still covers the summits but the valleys are greening. The clocks go forward in late March, adding an hour of evening light. Days lengthen dramatically — gaining 4–5 minutes per day. March can deliver both blizzards and shirt-sleeve sunshine.
No midges yet. Last chance for midge-free hillwalking before May.
Our take on March
March is when Scotland wakes up. The snow on the summits makes every Munro look like an Alpine peak. The valleys are green. The days are long enough for ambitious routes. And there are no midges. For pure hillwalking quality, March is arguably the best month of the year. The only caveat: conditions above 800m can change from spring to full winter in an hour.
Best activities
- Hillwalking — snow above, green below
- Mountain biking — trails drying out
- Wild camping — longer evenings return
- Coastal walks — spring wildflowers
- Birdwatching — ospreys return
Hillwalking
The shoulder season. Above 800m expect snow, ice and winter conditions. Below 600m the paths are clear and the air is crisp. This is arguably the best month for Munro-bagging — long enough days for big routes, no midges, and dramatic snow-capped scenery. The Donalds and Grahams are fully accessible.
Mountain biking
Trails dry out through March. Glentress and Innerleithen are in good condition by mid-month. The longer days make weekend rides more relaxed. Natural trails in the Highlands may still be boggy.
Wild camping
Wild camping returns as a comfortable option. Evening light until 6:30pm by late March. Temperatures at low altitudes rarely drop below freezing. A 3-season sleeping bag suffices at valley level. The hills are empty.
Sea kayaking
Sea temperatures start to rise (7–8°C). Calm spells in March can offer excellent paddling on the west coast. Daylight now supports full-day trips. Drysuits still recommended.
Gear highlights
- Gaiters for snow patches on summits
- Microspikes as a lighter alternative to crampons
- 3-season sleeping bag for wild camping
- Sunglasses — spring sun on snow is blinding