Mountaineering

Mountaineering is the sport and activity of climbing mountains, often involving a combination of hiking, rock climbing, ice climbing, and glacier travel. It encompasses a range of goals from summit attempts and traverses to ascents of technically challenging faces, usually conducted in alpine environments where weather, altitude, and terrain add to the difficulty. Techniques include roped travel, belaying, efficient movement on rock and ice, and self-rescue when needed. Equipment commonly used includes sturdy boots, crampons, ice axes, ropes, helmets, harnesses, and protection devices such as ice screws and protective cams or nuts.

History and development have roots in the Alpine exploration of the 18th and 19th centuries, with organized clubs and guides fostering progression in techniques and safety. The pursuit spread globally, leading to notable first ascents and the exploration of distant ranges. In modern practice, mountaineering is practiced in styles ranging from traditional expedition climbs to rapid, light, alpine-style ascents that emphasize speed and minimal gear.

Safety and preparation are central, given hazards such as changing weather, cold, altitude, crevasses, rockfall, and avalanches. Training often covers navigation, route finding, weather interpretation, rescue skills, and physical conditioning. Ethical considerations include minimizing environmental impact, respecting local regulations, and supporting responsible access to mountain regions.

Popular regions include the Alps, the Andes, the Himalayas, and the Karakoram, along with remote ranges in Patagonia and Greenland. Organized communities and governing bodies, such as the UIAA and national climbing clubs, provide standards, safety resources, and opportunities for discussion and competition within a mountaineering context.