Mountain climbing is the sport of climbing mountain slopes to reach their peaks. It is also called mountaineering or Alpinism.
Mountain climbing as a sport started in Europe when people began to ascend peaks simply for the challenge and adventure. Most of the major mountains, except those in the most remote parts of the world, have been climbed. The tallest peak in North America, located on Denali, was first climbed in 1913. In 1953, Sir Edmund Hillary of New Zealand and Tenzing Norgay of Nepal became the first to reach the summit of Mount Everest in Asia, the world’s highest mountain. See Denali ; Mount Everest .
Mountaineers still try to be the first to conquer a tall peak. But the main focus of the sport has become the exploration of new routes up the most challenging mountains. Mountaineers are also attracted to established routes that are very difficult or particularly enjoyable.
Styles of mountain climbing.
Mountaineers today place great importance on the style of ascent. Experienced mountaineers typically climb in teams of two or more, but they sometimes climb alone for the increased challenge and solitude.
The traditional method of climbing a peak is called the expedition style. In this style, large teams of mountaineers set ropes on difficult terrain and establish a network of well-stocked camps.
Mountaineers consider Alpine style climbing the purest and most challenging way to climb a peak. Mountaineers begin at the base of a peak and climb to its summit without returning for additional supplies or equipment. The Alpine style requires a rapid ascent because the climbers are limited to the provisions they can carry in their packs. Retreat from a route without the camps and ropes of expedition style is often more difficult and dangerous.
Challenge of the Himalaya.
Many mountain ranges offer outstanding climbing challenges. But the immense peaks of the Himalaya, the world’s highest mountains, are regarded as the greatest test in mountaineering. Himalayan climbing is particularly difficult and hazardous because of the high altitudes, extreme cold, and severe weather. The sport’s new frontier has become the attempt to reach the summit of these peaks without bottled oxygen, large numbers of support climbers, and expedition style tactics.
Basic mountaineering equipment and methods.
Mountaineers use climbing ropes, tied around the waist or into a waist harness, to protect them if they fall. On snow and ice slopes, mountain climbers ascend with the aid of ice axes and a set of metal spikes called crampons attached to the bottom of climbing boots.
In difficult terrain, climbers use a technique called belaying to stop a fall. In belaying, a lead climber ascends while a second climber releases the rope from a secure position. While advancing, the lead climber inserts pieces of gear into the snow, ice, or cracks in the rock, securing the rope to them with a snap link or karabiner. The lead climber then belays the second climber, who removes the pieces of gear so that they may be used again.
Climbers descend from the summit by the easiest or quickest route. Often they rappel steep sections. Rappelling is a way of sliding down the climbing rope.
Mountain climbing safety.
Mountaineering is a hazardous sport. Mountain storms can bring high winds and very cold temperatures that make climbing extremely difficult. Mountaineers also face such dangers as avalanches, ice and rock falls, and hidden cracks in the ice and snow. At high elevations, such altitude sicknesses as pulmonary and cerebral edema can be life threatening.
Mountaineers can overcome these dangers by taking adequate precautions. They should observe the weather and note any changes in barometric pressure. On high peaks, mountaineers must allow themselves time to adjust to the reduced amount of oxygen. Climbing with helmets helps protect against falling ice and rock.
Different routes on a mountain require different levels of climbing skill. Mountaineers should select a climb that is within their ability. They must also know when to retreat if the weather changes or the climb becomes too difficult or dangerous.
Mountain climbing schools and clubs.
There are many mountain climbing guide services in the United States. Two schools that provide instruction in mountain climbing are the National Outdoor Leadership School in Lander, Wyoming, and Outward Bound, Inc., in Garrison, New York. Information about mountain climbing clubs can be obtained by writing to the American Alpine Club in Golden, Colorado.
