Have you been thinking about tackling mountaineering but don’t know where to begin? Wait no longer — there are plenty of places for the novice climber to take their first steps onto that higher plane. Stop standing at the bottom and make your way to the summit for these five great starter climbs from around the world.
Aconcagua, Argentina
Found in the Andes mountains, Aconagua’s peak lies at 22,840 feet and is the tallest mountain outside the Himalayas. Extensive backpacking experience and previous high altitude expeditions are not required but extremely helpful. Get in shape before you try to tackle this mountain. The trailhead lies at 9,000 feet, from which you will make you way to Base Camp 4 at 20,000 feet. This is no weekend jaunt. It will take about three weeks to acclimatize and make your way to the top.
Mount Elbrus, Russia
The twin peaked Mount Elbrus is the tallest mountain in Europe. The main route to the top is only moderately steep and free of crevasses, making it a good choice for the beginner. Beware the thin air, though. Preliminary training sessions will cover basic mountaineering and cable cars will tote you and your fellow climbers to the 12,500 foot mark, where your climb begins. Preparing and acclimatization will take several days but your push to the summit usually only takes one day.
Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
The fourth highest of the Seven Summits, the famed Kilimanjaro tops out at 19,336 feet. The climbs begins at 5,900 feet and the greatest obsacel here is altitude sickness. The experience is a unique and spectailar one, though. The climb will take you from grasslands, through rainforest and alpine desert, all leading toward the arctic-like summit. You can expect to hike a hard six hourse per day in your weeklong trek towards the top.
Mount Baker, Washington State
While they are both considered excellent options for training, Mount Baker has one prime advantage over its well known neighbor, Mount Rainier: fewer climbers. While climbers squeeze past each other on Ranier, Baker is relatively empty. This 10,781 glacier covered volcanic summit lies in the Cascade Mountains and can be completed from training class to summit in about three days.
Mount Katahdin, Maine
A mere 5,269 feet high, Mt. Katahdin in Maine lies at the northern end of the Appalachian Trail. Nearly a mile above sea level, the peak provides stunning views of Maine’s backcountry. Walk along the Knife Edge trail as you make your way up but be wary of those thousand foot drops off either side. Start this one-day climb early in the morning as the park will be closed after a maximum number of visitors has entered.
Despite their being considered entry level climbs, these peaks are serious business. Do your homework and get in shape before attempting these potentially dangerous climbs.
