Powder Turns in Scotland in December

13th December 2022 | Rod Frazer, Cairngorms

Last modified on December 18th, 2022

The snowy weather that has hit the UK in the last few days has been a huge bonus for die-hard skiers in the Scottish Highlands. PlanetSKI’s Scotland reporter, Rod Frazer, has been out on the slopes making the most of some great early season conditions.

UPDATE, Thursday 15th December:

We headed south to Glenshee today as they’re the first Scottish Ski Area to open up.

Crisp cold weather still, and blue skies.

Snow quality was superb; nice grippy corduroy on the Sunnyside slopes and off the Baddoch Chair.

There was plenty of snow over on Butcharts and they’re planning to open up this sector on Friday.

The next weather system hits on Friday, and will bring fresh now to all of the Scottish ski areas, but heaviest in the west – good news for Glencoe and Nevis Range.

Check out further images from Glenshee:

Glenshee, Scotland. Image © Dianne Frazer

Tuesday 13th December:

After a very mild autumn I’m happy to report northerly airflows are now firmly in charge of the Highland weather.

The Cairngorms have enjoyed the first big dump of the season and there’s a lot more snow forecast over the coming days.

Glenshee Ski Area has kicked off the Scottish ski season first.

It was -4 degrees on Tuesday when a few lifts were open, giving access to skiing, though more is needed to add to the good start so far.

“Our official winter season opening is still set for Saturday and we’ll update our website shortly to reflect the changes in snow conditions and how this relates to ticket and equipment hire,” the resort said.

https://www.facebook.com/GlensheeSkiCentre/videos/848219989754166/

The Lecht and Cairngorm are planning to open on the 17^th and 21^st December respectively.

https://www.facebook.com/cairngormmountainscotlandltd/photos/a.141840099242850/5665169956909809/

Glenmore Forest, Scotland. Image © Rod Frazer

There’s been less snow in the West.

Glencoe has already opened the access chair for sledging.

It will hopefully be up and running soon for skiers as it looks like the wind is turning westerly on Friday and should see some decent snowfall heading into the weekend.