Spring is the time when a cleansing freshness descends upon the mountains and life returns following the deep chill of winter. Now's the time to see the mountains at their vivid best, as snow topped peaks compete with the verdant green of the wild grasses coming through. It's about now that the wild flowers start to take hold too, so get to know your shrubby potentilla from your pink spiraea.

With the snow melt also comes torrents of fresh, icy water filling the lakes and rivers that run though the valleys. Enjoy the spectacle, or if you're feeling particularly daring enjoy the swimming or canyoning opportunities that they afford.