Why Gen Z hikers keep getting lost up mountains

Mountaineering incidents involving 17- to 25-year-olds in the Scottish Highlands have nearly quadrupled since 2022.

In 2023, 25% of rescues in the Highlands were 17- to 25-year-olds, up from 15% in 2018.

France, Italy, and Switzerland have also seen surges in SOS calls from young hikers in recent years.

The 'Instagram effect' drives young walkers to take risky photos at beauty spots without proper gear or preparation.

Two hikers in their 20s were rescued from Britain’s second-highest mountain in -15°C wearing only trainers and tracksuit bottoms.