Cloud possible at higher levels
As you start to climb higher you may find that cloud begins to form, and the summit will be hidden from view!
You will be safe if you keep to the well trodden paths, but we advise you not to go too far from the track. The cloud and mist can form very quickly and become very thick.
Summit Temperature
It will certainly be much colder at the top than at the bottom - particularly in low cloud. This can be very wet, and if you do not have a waterproof with you, your clothes will get sodden.
Example weather on Snowdon Walk
These photographs on the right are all taken on the same walk on an early August day up the Watkins Path of Mount Snowdon. The day started off without a cloud in the sky - three hours later we were scrambling through thick cloud and near gale force winds, getting very wet.
It was great getting to the top, although we could not take the photographs we hoped to get. It was also dangerous standing on the stones at the top as the wind threatened to blow you over the side.
The cafe was a real bonus, although very crowded. We had the benefit of really having achieved something - having walked to the top of Snowdon which made up for the lack of views. The poor folks who had come up by train felt they had wasted their money!
Example Weather on Ben Nevis
And just to show mountains have the same typical weather, here's the start of the walk up Ben Nevis with the sun shining. And the summit shrouded in mist!
The lesson is be prepared - and especially so on Ben Nevis where you could finding yourself scrabbling through snow!
This cannot be emphasised enough. Knowing and being prepared for the weather conditions will add to your enjoyment of your day, and will keep you safe.
Links are provided here to the Met Office forecasts, and weatherline for the Lake District.
Weather on the mountains is very unpredictable. It is very possible that you will choose a lovely clear day for your climb, and will start the day in a tee shirt with the sun beating down on your back.
Links are provided here to the Met Office forecasts, and weatherline for the Lake District.
Weather on the mountains is very unpredictable. It is very possible that you will choose a lovely clear day for your climb, and will start the day in a tee shirt with the sun beating down on your back.
Link to Weather forecast for Snowdon
Cloud at high levels
Summit Temperature
Example weather Snowdon
Example Weather Ben Nevis
Example Weather Scafell Pike
Summit Temperature
Example weather Snowdon
Example Weather Ben Nevis
Example Weather Scafell Pike
Lake District
Example Weather on Scafell Pike
Although we climbed Scafell Pike on a glorious day, one of our party was much faster and decided to go on ahead. He ended up on the summit just as this cloud was overhead - and could see nothing at all!
Bad luck - it must have been the only cloud of the day!
As on any of these mountains the weather can change quickly, and you have to be prepared.
Weather on the Mountains
Before you start your walk CHECK THE WEATHER!
About half way up - lovely sunshiine
A little bit further and cloud rolls in
Onward to the summit in thick fog
Preparations
Always remember as part of your preparations to check the weather forecast for that day, and remember to pack your map and compass!
Walks up Snowdon
Snowdon Facts and History
Holidays in Snowdonia
Travelling to Snowdon
Miners and PYG Tracks
The Llanberis Path
Miners Path/Rangers Path
Snowdon Facts and History
Holidays in Snowdonia
Travelling to Snowdon
Miners and PYG Tracks
The Llanberis Path
Miners Path/Rangers Path
Ben Nevis Tourist Path
Ben Nevis Facts and History
Holidays around Ben Nevis
Ben Nevis on Crutches
A Night on Ben Nevis
Walkers share their Stories
Ben Nevis part of Three Peaks
Pole Dancing on Ben Nevis
Ben Nevis c1960
Ben Nevis Facts and History
Holidays around Ben Nevis
Ben Nevis on Crutches
A Night on Ben Nevis
Walkers share their Stories
Ben Nevis part of Three Peaks
Pole Dancing on Ben Nevis
Ben Nevis c1960
Three Peaks Challenge
Three Peaks Part 1
Three Peaks Part 2
Three Peaks Driver's View
Three Peaks Plus
Three Peaks Part 1
Three Peaks Part 2
Three Peaks Driver's View
Three Peaks Plus
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