By FRANCES BRADLEY
It’s cold: be prepared
Although the worst of the weather has passed, there’s still plenty of ice and snow around, particularly on higher ground. Coillte Outdoors advises anyone who’s heading out in the next few weeks to take care on upland forest trails and in car parks. Also, don’t venture out alone; be sure you and your party are capable of dealing with tough conditions; wear boots, wet-weather gear, gloves and a hat; bring a hot drink and a snack; have a map and compass and know how to use them; don’t stay out after dark; never go out on frozen rivers or lakes; and tell someone where you are going. coillteoutdoors.ie.
BogTrotters
This Dublin-based hillwalking club meets every Sunday, usually at 9.45am, at the Tuning Fork in Rathfarnham, south Dublin. (Check each walk for any time changes.) The club recommends first-timers join one of its moderate walks (it also has tough and strenuous outings), suitable for reasonably fit people with some hillwalking experience. E-mail secretary bogtrotters@bogtrotters.ie or see bogtrotters.ie.
Winter meet in Italy
Interested in learning or improving your winter walking, snowshoeing and mountaineering skills, in bright sunshine and with good food? Mountaineering Ireland has a meet in the Adamello Alps, in Italy, from March 14th to 21st. Find out more at Great Outdoors, on Chatham Street in Dublin, next Wednesday, at 7pm. Call Kate Hebblethwaite on 01-6251115, e-mail kate@ mountaineering.ie or see mountaineering.ie.