Safely in mountains

Few points I learned here in mountains

Plan and be prepared for worstcase scenario
Aspiring for the highest peak, presumes almost visually acquired  knowledge of the whole route from parkplace, through the prepared frequented roads, narrow tracks, up to steep trail underneath the actual peak.
In case one get off the signposted track - esp by rapid change of wheather like fog, rainy clouds, then this virtual visual map and orientation without GPS, may come handy.

At the beginning of a tour in winter I put on several layers of functional wear. All of them should be interconnected - and meaningful (mind your primary physical needs, access to treat a wound) and fully functional - (unbreathable rubberised upper layer causes condensation of sweat on inner side, thus affecting  you feeling cold, consequently cutting short your endurance).

As my body heats up to operational temperature, during breaks to catch some fresh air, I mind unnecessary loss of heat by zipping up. On return, going downwards,  to preserve rest of my energy, now is the time to put on the extra clothes like buff or  scarf. They are supposed to be still warm by body heat but still without moisture from sweating.

During one of my first attempts to climb an average hill nearby, I gradually realised what kind of accerssoice is required. Even winter boot or ice climbing shoes render better experience with snow gamashe/ leg sleeves - properly attached and fixed on boot and lower leg.

Sunglasses (and other small gadgets used casually) might be worn at start with care and attention, with sun going down or cloud comming over, don't forget to set them into protective case and safely into backpack. This is the most frequently  lost item - according to my records ;(

First aid kit - ussually the last thing one think about when packing. In case of emergency (falling and breaking an limb/ bruising just your skin) many times one is heavily impaired, i.e. only one hand in use (James Franco film); then easily accessible and operational kit may solve your troubles. Mind that in mountains gsm phones may suffer weak signal, coverage loss or empty battery thus becoming unusable.

Time managment for both ways.
Keeping steady pace and relevant breathing method with occassional 'photo' breaks contribute to continious ascend. In a rule, the average walking time on signposts might be taken as a merit. If you overdo an average hiker, you still can give him a chance to catch up with you as you already enjoy the view.
Mind that even though descend seems easier, certain slopes esp steep require to climb down and therefore take a bit longer then the way up did.

Water element
Water in various forms creates a breathtaking sceneries, at the same time it poses an imminent threat when unrecognised in time.
Snowdrift blown over the edge, with tiny frost crust atop, sits over an empty space left after melted water uncovered a sharp-pointed stone. On exactly this one you land - with your other leg clinched on the surface. Such an experience mobilise all your survival memory records from films and manuals... to get you out and toward safe retreat. For sake of staying in dry comfort, an additional pair of socks is always in my backpack.
Fresh snow esp powder like on steep slope, takes so much power out of your system - sometimes robot like moving snowshoes hike preferably enhance the winter landscape watching experience.

Good luck on your track