| Mountaineering (mountain climbing) is a classic sport, | | | | If you think mountaineering may be something that |
| which has been done for countless years. Combining | | | | you are interested in, there are a few things to do |
| rock, snow, and ice climbing with hiking and | | | | to start pursuing the sport. First and foremost, note |
| sometimes camping, and it is understandable why it is | | | | that mountain climbing, regardless of level, requires a |
| such a timeless sport. | | | | certain amount of time, money, and fitness. If you |
| Mountaineering has one goal: to reach the next | | | | can accommodate that, the next to do is figure out |
| summit, or the top. There are many mountains, all | | | | which type of mountain climbing is best for you. |
| with different heights and obstacles and so it is easy | | | | Some things to consider, as you are trying to decide |
| to accommodate anyone's level of experience, | | | | the best type of climbing for you, are if you enjoy |
| beginner to expert. Many start out learning how to | | | | hiking or climbing more, your preferred type of |
| mountain climb by essentially hiking up hill. It is a good | | | | weather to be active in, and how much work you |
| place to start because it is far less intimidating to | | | | want to put into the sport. If you're unsure, try a |
| ease your way into the sport. | | | | few beginners' trails in different areas and decide |
| Mountain climbing experiences are unpredictable. | | | | what you like about each and dislike. |
| Because of this, it not only physically stimulates you, | | | | It may be a good idea to hire a mountain guide if |
| but mentally as well. Environment can range from | | | | you are a beginner. Mountain guides are professionals |
| freezing to sweltering hot (even in the same day!) as | | | | who can help you up a mountain safely, as they are |
| altitude, weather and sub angles change. These | | | | generally adept climbers and/or skiers, who know the |
| changes challenge your mental ability to plan in | | | | terrain. They can fill you with useful advice and help |
| advance, improve, problem solve, and navigate, while | | | | you learn skills. This goes for those wanting to take |
| physically challenging your physical conditioning and | | | | on a highly advanced mountain, or a self taught |
| climbing skills. | | | | mountaineer, as mountain guides, especially certified |
| You must be well prepared in regards to the | | | | ones have usually done numerous trainings and has |
| experience you have and the equipment you bring | | | | seemingly countless hours of personal experience for |
| along. To start, you can get by with basic hiking | | | | you to learn from. |
| equipment such as rations, tents and sleeping bags. | | | | Many people have come to love mountain climbing |
| As difficulty increases, however, so does the amount | | | | from complete obsession to fun hobby. If you are |
| of stuff you need. This is where the ropes and other | | | | interested in mountain climbing, it is definitely |
| equipment and gear used for climbing and survival | | | | something people everywhere will tell you is worth |
| become necessary. | | | | pursuing! |