Mountaineering uses a lot of different terms and lingo that a course can help you learn as well. The American Alpine Club offers courses in locations around the US that you can take to get a crash course on mountain climbing.
You can also look for online groups on places such as social media that you can join to chat with other climbers.
For aerobic exercises, try running, cycling, or high-intensity interval training (HIIT). Lifting weights is a great way to build up your strength, but if you’re new to it, work with an experienced partner to make sure you don’t get hurt. Climbing-specific exercises you can do include step-ups, step-downs, lunges, squats, planks, and leg raises.
Look for hiking trails in your area that you can check out. It’s a great way to enjoy nature and prep for your mountain climbing trip at the same time. Add in hiking with a weighted pack to your general training approach to mix things up.
Make sure the boots fit comfortably! You’ll be wearing them for a long time so you don’t want your feet feeling cramped or squished. Hiking boots and shoes can be made of leather, synthetics, or waterproof membrane. Leather can be heavier but more durable, synthetics are lighter but may break down more quickly, and waterproof membrane are designed to resist water. Choose a material that best suits your needs. Use rope that’s rated and designed for mountain climbing. You want to be able to depend on it when you need it most.
For instance, if you’re brand new to mountain climbing, stick to Class 1 or Grade I routes.
Most parks accept payment online. Keep your receipt just in case you need to use it as proof that you paid the required fee.
Check the park’s website or give the local Wilderness Office a call to see what you need to submit for a bivouac permit. Most parks will also require a parking permit for your vehicle, which you can pick up from the office.
For instance, if you notice that an experienced climber seems to be moving slower than you expect, ask them why. They may be pacing themselves to save energy.
A few reputable companies that provide guided trips include Alpine Ascents International, International Mountain Guides, LLC, and Rainier Mountaineering, Inc.
It’s easy to get super excited and start moving as quickly as you can up the mountain. But you don’t want to find yourself stuck and exhausted at the top of a mountain.
