The Scottish Mountaineering Trust

The MCofS is grateful to the Trustees of the Scottish Mountaineering Trust (SMT) for their ongoing support for our access and conservation work, and for the Visually Impaired Course. Without the support of the SMT, we would be unable to undertake these activities. In particular our work to protect mountaineers’ rights to responsible access, minimise the impact of mountaineers’ activities through provision of educational resources, and to protect the mountain landscape from development would be significantly reduced.

What is the Scottish Mountaineering Trust

The SMT is a grant-making Charity which, founded in 1962, has for more than 40 years been helping people enjoy and appreciate mountains and mountain environments both in Scotland and throughout the world.

How is it funded?

All profits from the sale of Scottish Mountaineering Club climbing and hill walking guides go to the Trust, and provide much of the Trust’s revenue. The best known guidebook is The Munros, first published in 1986. Other revenue comes from legacies and donations from individuals and organisations.

What does the Trust support?

Grants are wide-ranging and always associated with mountains e.g. their geography, topography, meteorology, biology and geology, or the safety of people enjoying them. Mountain expeditions can be assisted provided a clear scientific or other project beneficial to the general community can be demonstrated. Purely recreational pursuits are excluded.

Who can apply?

The Trust tries to get the most from its grants. It is commonly, though not exclusively, groups or organisations which benefit. New ideas or causes are always welcome, as long as the hills or hill users benefit.

Is the Trust keen to encourage specific applications?

Yes. The Trust is keen to increase grant aid to projects with an educational objective, especially among young people and people with disabilities.

Is there a limit to the amount of grant you can apply for?

No, but resources are limited. The Trust would determine any proposed grant based on the details of each application and the number of applications before the Trust at the time.

How do you apply?

For an application form write to: The Secretary, Scottish Mountaineering Trust, Willowbank, Tradespark Road, Nairn IV12 5NF, or by email to the Secretary, or by downloading a copy from the SMC website. (Note that this a General Application Form, and that separate form are provided on the website for footpath and expedition grants).

Applications are generally considered in early February, early June and early October, with applicants notified by post of the Trustees’ decision.

You can find our more about the Trust by downloading an explanatory leaflet in pdf format.