Upland areas that have been glacially eroded are used in a variety of ways, but they also limit what human activities can take place. The stark rugged scenery of mountains in areas of low population density and therefore low pollution attract people who want to get away from it all by angling, walking and rock climbing.

The majority of visiters are more passive than active, that is they will visit by car or bus and view the scenery from the road. Where snowfall is predictable skiing and snowboarding facilities have been developed, although this is not a quiet, peaceful activity.

In the Scottish Highlands deer stalking and grouse shooting are important activities as they provide jobs and bring in money to remote communities. Fish farming in coastal areas has grown enormously as source of income, whilst salmon fishing is not as important now due to the recent decline in the wild salmon numbers. Heavy precipitation amounts have encouraged the building of hydroelectric power (HEP) dams, where water flow is used to turn turbines and generate electricity.

Commercial forestry and quarrying are other economic activities in this type of area.

This map shows what corries, aretes and a pyramidal peak would look like on an OS map.