Highlands and Islands MSP Jean Urquhart has urged hill walkers across Scotland to take full advantage of Scottish Natural Heritage’s online advice service during stag stalking season this year.
The stag stalking season (1st July to 20th October) is a popular time of year for walkers, so three years ago SNH set up the Heading for the Scottish Hills website, www.outdooraccess-scotland.com/hftsh. The web service has proved popular with walkers with 7500 hits last year.
The website includes general information about stalking on all participating estates and contact details for further information. Some estates provide detailed information on the site up to a week in advance, describing where and when stalking will take place, as well as suggested walking routes. There is also information about responsible behaviour for land managers and walkers.
The website has expanded in 2012 to include more of Scotland’s most popular hill-walking areas, including in the Cairngorms National Park, Breadalbane and the west coast.
Jean Urquhart MSP said:
“The increasing popularity of hill walking as a recreational activity is welcome, but must be accompanied with better information for all to ensure safety on Scotland’s hills.
“SNH’s website is undoubtedly a vital tool in helping walkers and deer stalkers alike to make the most of our beautiful landscape without impacting on each other’s activities.
“I would urge all hill walkers to make full use of this innovative tool.”
Jean Urquhart 