Archive · 21 Jul 2026
Gen Z Hikers Struggle with Mountain Safety
More young people are going hiking, but some are not prepared.
They want to take cool photos for Instagram, but they don't have the right clothes or gear.
This can be dangerous.
Rescuers say that some hikers wear regular shoes and clothes in very cold weather.
Experts think that the desire to take photos is making people take big risks.
Without help, some of these hikers could get seriously hurt or even die.
More young hikers are getting lost and needing rescue.
The 'Instagram effect' motivates hikers to take risks for photos.
Many young hikers lack proper gear and common sense.
Rescuers have found hikers in inappropriate clothing in extreme cold.
Experts believe the desire for photos is leading to dangerous situations.
- Who
- Gen Z hikers and rescuers
- What
- Increase in hikers getting lost and requiring rescue
- When
- Recent incidents
- Where
- Mountains in Britain and Scotland
- Why
- Desire for Instagram photos and lack of preparation
Instagram Influence
Lack of Preparation
Motivation for Hiking
Instagram Influence
Young hikers are motivated by the desire to capture Instagram-worthy photos, leading them to take risks.
Lack of Preparation
Many young hikers lack proper gear and common sense, which puts them in dangerous situations.
- Rescuer
- Kev Mitchell
- Location
- Scotland
- Temperature
- -15°C
- Gear
- Trainers, tracksuit bottoms
- Expert
- Ludovic Richard