This type of scenery has limitations caused by the high altitude, steep slopes, thin and infertile soils, heavy rainfall and low temperatures. This prevents any kind of intensive agriculture with hill sheep farming being the most important. Communications are difficult and roads and railways are usually only found in the valley floors.

The remoteness is a disadvantage as it costs more to import and export goods, and the cost of living for the inhabitants is consequently higher. The "unspoilt" nature of the glacial highlands has meant that land use conflicts occur. Often the need to develop an area by, for example, opening up a quarry or enlarging a ski resort will conflict with the desire to protect the environment.