The development of climbing rating systems came about during the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries in Britain and Germany. The ratings used internationally today include four for alpine climbing, four for ice and two for aid climbing. Though bouldering was originally just a game that alpinists enjoyed, bouldering as a sport in itself has become p… read more
Hiking on a glacier is a dangerous and sometimes strenuous activity, though for most people the allure of the beautiful terrain outweighs the hazards. A glacier is often the best route to an alpine summit. If you are new to glacier travel and crevasse rescue, then it is advisable to take a safety course so that you can go wherever the mountains may lead you.… read more
There are four alpine and four ice climbing rating systems used internationally. As always, climbing ratings are subjective systems of classifying a climb's difficulty and are rated assuming a climber has the proper equipment and that the weather is well-mannered. Climbs are often rated by those who first ascend them so guidebooks rely on those who have clim… read more
Ice axes are a tool that are centuries old and although their designs have changed, their main purpose has not. Ice axes, also called a piolet in French, are an aid for mountaineers in snow, ice and glacier travel. Among the uses of ice axes are as a trekking tool to aid in walking, for stopping a fall (self-arresting) and for clearing areas of ice. Using an… 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 invented, which changed how climbers use ropes. Different varieties of climbing rope are designed for different types of climbing. read more
Rappelling is used to safely descend a rope using friction to control the speed. Proper rappelling technique is vital to climbing and your safety in the mountains. Rappelling may be used for convenience, but often it may be the only wa… read more
Backpacking in the rain--whether it is planned or a surprise--doesn't have to be a drag. With the proper gear and techniques it is possible to backpack in the rain while keeping your gear and yourself dry. Don't let those gray skies (o… read more
The practice of climbing on rock, ice and sometimes snow on the same route is known as mixed climbing. Alpinists often encounter conditions on peaks that call for both rock and ice climbing skills, sometimes within the same pitch. This… read more
A Tyrolean traverse is a mode of transportation used in rock climbing, river crossings or technical tree climbing. In rock climbing Tyrolean traverses are used mostly for returning to a main wall after climbing a pillar and in river cr… 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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