June 18, 2016 – a date that’s etched in our memories here at Tantrumming Trailblazers. It was a day that started with sunshine and ended with snowflakes, a day when our furry friend, Rupert the Dog, proved he’s as much of a trailblazer as any of us. Let’s rewind and relive this epic adventure.
A Sunny Start Turned Wintry Wonderland
Our journey began in Fort William, a charming town nestled in the Scottish Highlands, known as the gateway to Ben Nevis. The sun was shining, birds were chirping, and Rupert? He was wagging his tail, eagerly sniffing every new scent that came his way. Little did we know, Mother Nature had a few surprises up her sleeve.

As we started our ascent, the weather decided to play a game of ‘four seasons in one day’. The sunny skies gradually gave way to a misty fog, making the landscape look like something out of a mystical storybook. But wait, there’s more – just as we were getting used to the fog, down came the rain. And not just any rain, a relentless, drenching downpour that had us soaked to the bone.
But here’s the twist – as we neared the summit, the rain turned to snow. Yes, snow in June! The landscape transformed before our eyes into a snowy wonderland, a stark contrast to the summer day we started with. Through it all, Rupert was a champ – bounding through the changing terrain with the enthusiasm of a dog on a mission.

BBQ Bliss and Rupert’s Well-Deserved Rest
After conquering the summit and making our way back, we were exhausted but exhilarated. And what’s the best way to celebrate such an achievement? A BBQ, of course! With the smell of grilled goodies filling the air and the sound of laughter echoing around, it was the perfect end to an adventurous day. Rupert, bless his heart, was sprawled out in the tent, fast asleep, probably dreaming of his next big adventure.
Exploring the Scottish Highlands
But our adventure didn’t stop there. The following days were spent exploring the hills around Fort William. We stumbled upon some breathtaking waterfalls – the kind that makes you realise just how magnificent nature can be. The cascading waters, set against the backdrop of the lush greenery, were a sight to behold.
As our time in Fort William came to a close, we set our sights on our next destination – the Isle of Skye. But that’s a story for another day, a post that we promise will be just as thrilling as this one.

Wrapping It Up
So, there you have it, folks – our throwback adventure to Fort William with Rupert the Dog. It was a journey that had it all – sunshine, rain, fog, snow, and a whole lot of fun. It’s trips like these that remind us why we love adventuring so much – the unpredictability, the camaraderie, and, of course, the unforgettable memories.
Stay tuned for our next ‘looking back’ post where we’ll take you on our journey to the Isle of Skye. Until then, keep exploring, and who knows, maybe you’ll find your own Rupert to join your adventures!
FAQs
Q: Is Ben Nevis dog-friendly? A: Absolutely! Just make sure your furry friend is fit for the challenge and always keep an eye on the weather.
Q: What gear do you recommend for a hike like this? A: Waterproof clothing, sturdy hiking boots, and layers – you never know when you might go from sun to snow!
Q: How do you prepare for unpredictable weather? A: Check the forecast, but be prepared for anything. The weather in the Highlands can change in an instant.