Biking down great descents generally means that you face a long, uphill climb before you can enjoy the ride down. Long climbs present a challenge for many mountain bikers but learning how to best approach them can make them a bit less intimidating. Whether you're a novice or experienced biker, you want to be comfortable while you spin up the climb. read more
Chimney climbing is often required on longer traditional climbs. It's a valuable skill to have for classics and big walls. read more
Skilled climbing requires a combination of skill, strength, flexibility, and balance. By practicing your technique and cross training with targeted exercises, you can dramatically improve your climbing ability in a short period of time. As with any physical activity, your rate of improvement with climbing depends on how often you train and how much effort yo… read more
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For those who like to gaze out upon vast expanses of water from the top of a precipice, then climbing a seaside mountain might be just the answer. Afterward, you can go for a refreshing swim—or if the water is really cold—just soak your feet in fresh saltwater. Opportunities to do both activities side-by-side, don't occur all that often. But when… read more
Climbing is an inherently dangerous sport, and participants rely on excellent equipment to keep them safe in harsh environments and precarious situations that would be otherwise unnavigable. The rope is the most basic piece of climbing… read more
A basic grappling hook is a hook with a rope attached it. It is used mainly as a way to help climb up an area or get across an area where it is difficult to do so without assistance. Rock climbers sometimes use them for icy conditions… read more
With few exceptions, mountain climbing gear can be separated into three categories: protective gear, essential gear and accessories. Protective gear keeps you safe while you are climbing the mountain. Its function is specifically to pr… read more
A key skill all rock climbers need to have in their repertoire is a solid understanding of climbing commands (calls and terminology). These commands are a standard form of communication that ensure the safety of the climber. They shoul… read more
Choosing a climbing harness can be challenging if you are new to climbing or you are acquiring your first harness. A few simple steps will make your shopping experience more enjoyable and satisfying. read more
Rope is the most recognizable symbol of climbing and represents the trust climbing partners must have in one another. In the early days of climbing, ropes were mostly made of natural fibers. During World War II, nylon ropes were invent… read more
The first climbing ropes were made of natural fibers like sisal and manila, but today they are made of much stronger material. Nylon ropes were developed during World War II by DuPont scientist Wallace Carothers, enabling climbers to e… read more
Climbing ropes are available in a variety of configurations, depending on the activity they will be used for. For instance, climbers doing glacier climbs and high-altitude mountaineering will likely prefer a single half rope, since the… read more
Rock climbing is a sport about details. Finding the right holds in the right sequence is the key to making your way up a rock face. The same goes for finding the right climbing shoes. While there are many shoes that will perform well,… read more
Athletes participating in the sport of climbing accept that the sport has inherent risks, including but not limited to death. Correctly using proper safety equipment helps manage these risks, making what seems like a risky activity rel… read more
Climbing shoes are used by rock climbers in indoor gyms, on boulders and for big wall climbs. Climbing shoes typically feature a tacky sole designed to provide secure foot placement while climbing. The uppers of climbing shoes are made… read more
Located in the northeastern corner of Wyoming, adjacent to the Black Hills of South Dakota, Devils Tower was proclaimed the country's first national monument in 1906 by President Theodore Roosevelt. It rises 867 feet high, and is made… read more
Tree climbing can be a thrilling experience and nearly anyone can master the needed skills. The best way to go about it is to get out there and climb. A number of organizations offer public climbs and basic classes. You'll do best in t… read more
Mountain climbing, also called mountaineering, is an exhilarating sport that involves backpacking, hiking and climbing mountains. You need a variety of tools for efficient climbing as well as for safety reasons. Choose your mountain c… read more
You've already tried car and RV camping. You've camped at commercial campsites that had a convenient restroom and water supply. Now, you want to explore the road less traveled. Backcountry camping, also known as primitive camping, is a wonderful way to explore the remote...
Pismo State Beach, California, has many attractions and activities including camping, swimming, hiking and wildlife viewing. Birdwatching is one of the primary activities in the area. The park also has the largest over-wintering colony of monarch butterflies in the natio...
The first and most fundamental thing is never hike alone. There are too many situations, especially as an unexperienced hiker, where you may find yourself without anyone to help you. So the buddy system works and applies very much in hiking.
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