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Skiing or snowboarding in Scotland has a number of challenges, with the unpredictable nature of the winter season being the primary issue.
Scotland can be very cold, very wet, very windy and even very snowy but the problem is often that the weather can be all of these things in the space of a few hours.
For skiers and snowboarders, the drastically varying temperatures can be a problem.
One minute the slopes will be enjoying a good coating of fresh snow, the next minute will see a rise in temperature provoking a change to rain and a washing away of all the white stuff.
As such the winter sports centres in Scotland are at the mercy of the weather Gods.
The 21st Century saw a string of poor snow seasons and things were looking tricky for many of the operating companies on Scotland's mountains.
However, the last couple of seasons has seen an upsurge in the fortunes of the Scottish snow sports resorts.
Both 2010 and 2011 brought very cold weather to Scotland over the winter months.
Whilst much of the UK experienced disruption as the snow and cold weather stopped many from leaving their homes, in the mountains of Scotland the skiing and snowboarding communities were jumping with joy - the cold weather meant the exciting prospect of an extended sliding season.
Furthermore, whilst politicians worried that economic recession would be exacerbated by the cold snap, in and around areas such as Aviemore and Glenshee the opposite was occurring - record numbers were taking to the slopes and purchasing lift passes in order to enjoy the snow.
When Scotland's mountains are clothed in fresh powder there is some fantastic skiing and snowboarding to be done.
Good snow in Scotland provides the area with a charm that is quite different to that of the Alps.
Perhaps it is because Scotland is not snow sure that when there is good conditions, skiers and riders will really appreciate it.
In addition, there is a real sense of being in the wild in Scotland as the ski centres are located in some of the most ruggedly beautiful and least populated areas in the UK.
The more adventurous can also get touring and hike up some munros during the winter in order to find lines to ski and board that are off the beaten track.
Whilst taking part in expeditions such as these, group members will have a high chance of seeing some fascinating wildlife, including Ptarmigan and wild hare.
Just remember to take full avalanche precautions just as you would in the world's bigger mountain ranges - Scotland in the winter can pose the same dangers as anywhere else with regards to unstable snow pack.
Season 2012 is predicted to be another cold one in Scotland - if the snow does materialise, perhaps this year you may want to experiment - try a spot of skiing or snowboarding in Scotland.
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