What Is Alpine Climbing, Alpine Style: Tips For Negotiating Alpine Elements

Quite often people wonder what is alpine climbing. This is a very popular sport that consists of climbing to the top and has been around for many centuries. Alpine climbing has many techniques, so everyone can choose the best option for themselves.

Features of mountaineering

If you are interested in what is alpine climbing, this technique involves lifting a person from the foot of the mountain to the top. The ascent is quick and easy.

If the path is too heavy and long, then the alpine climbing expedition has to include porters. The main job of such people is to carry equipment. Modern mountaineering implies long expeditions, which will consist of numerous base stations.

You also need to determine the route, install the railing, pick up the equipment, and go through acclimatization.

Alpine climbers also have to study the glaciated terrain. Although alpine climbing can be practiced even by beginners, there are risks involved and the need for expensive equipment.

The longer a person spends in the mountains, the higher the chances of encountering adverse weather, avalanches, etc. An alpine climbing expedition can last weeks or months. This requires large financial investments because you need to prepare food, fuel, clothes, and equipment for lifting.

The highest demand among climbers is rock climbing Everest. Initially, people get to the base camp, after which they set up different camps at different heights. The conquest of the mountain takes place almost in one jerk.

To do alpine climbing, you need to have excellent physical fitness and competence. When the expedition begins, no one teaches you. Therefore, they are optimal only for experienced climbers.

Some types of sites may be suitable for not-so-experienced alpine climbers. They go on a different route, and practically do not stay in the base camp. Depending on experience, all climbers reach the top of the mountain.

Historical information

The term “alpine climbing” was first used in the late 19th century. However, entertainment itself existed long before that. There are different alpine rock climbing techniques, and they all differ from each other. However, they are all in demand.

Working principle of alpine climbing

To do alpine climbing, you need special equipment. Special claws are put on boots, and axes will need to be held in their hands. This contributes to a better grip on ice surfaces.

You can buy the equipment, or you can rent it. Sales and rentals are carried out not only by specialty shops but also by experienced climbers themselves.

What equipment is required?

If you plan to do alpine rock climbing for only one day, you still require quality and reliable equipment. If you plan to use a rope on the way, you should additionally prepare carabiners, quickdraws, and slings.

If you climb to the top on ice, you need to have special warm boots that do not let moisture through. There is also a list of things that are on the list of essentials.

This includes ropes, helmets, ice axes, carabiners, snowshoes, and harnesses. This set is optimal if you plan to climb in the cold season, or on an icy platform.

Alpine style

There are several alpine climbing techniques. All of them are very popular. However, there are a few techniques that are most in demand. This applies to bouldering, ice climbing, rock climbing, mountaineering, and mixed climbing.

What skills are required?

Excellent technicality distinguishes alpine climbing techniques. In addition to having certain skills, you need to familiarize yourself with numerous techniques. An alpine climber must pay attention to upper body training. Additionally, you need to develop coordination, balance, and the ability to find alpine routes.

This helps you climb the alpine rock safely, even if the slope is steep. If you are walking on ice, you have to know exactly how crampons are fixed.

Varieties of terrain

It is extremely important to first familiarize yourself with the features of the area. If the ground is steep, more ropes are needed. If you fall on hard snow, you risk injury. Ice accesses are used as protective anchors. Ice axes are required if you are walking on ice climbing.

Weather conditions and snow conditions

First, you need to clarify the weather in the area, as well as the likelihood of snowfall. Be prepared that the weather can be unpredictable.

Beginner tips

If you are just planning to do alpine climbing, you need to spend enough time learning. Here are a few tips to help you get started with each of the alpine style:

• choose shoes that have rubber soles with a sticky layer. This provides a better grip on the surface;
• if you need to capture a small edge, you can use sharp tools. The optimal solution is a crampon with sharp tips;
• be patient. You must learn the principle of anchor protection, belaying, and rappelling;
• study knots if you plan to do alpine climbing in winter;
• a first-aid climbing kit may be required on all alpine climbs, so it’s best to have one with you at all times.

Training rules

First, you have to decide on the type of alpine climbing that you like best. It is important to understand that depending on this, the intensity and frequency of training will change.

If you prefer alpine hiking, which involves walking with a cane, you need to incorporate cardio into your workouts.

It can be classic running, or cycling. If you prefer the classic types of alpine climbing, then you must focus on strength training. This helps build muscle in the limbs. Joints will be strengthened, including ankles and knees.

You also need to train the core. This helps maintain balance, so the likelihood of a fall is many times less.

Alpine climbing classes

The technical difficulty of the ascents is determined by the grading system. Often this is done using numbers. The scale may be different, depending on the country in which you plan to climb.

However, there are several universal indicators. The first class indicates easy walking.

The second and third grades are indicative of moderate climbing, which involves the use of belay and protection. The fourth and fifth grades indicate strong difficulties.

It is important to remember that protection and anchors can fail. Therefore, you have to be very careful. Falling stones are not excluded.

If you choose a route with the sixth level and above, then only experienced climbers who have experience in such ascents can do it.

How much does alpine climbing cost?

It is necessary to understand that alpine climbing requires a large financial investment. However, you can choose types that are not as expensive. You can climb for free if you have the equipment to do so.

It is also an inexpensive sport climbing. Rock climbing on icy surfaces requires a lot of equipment.

You need to buy ice access, ice axes, and a belay. It is this option for ice climbing that is considered one of the most expensive and is equated to technical options. You need to understand that prices may vary depending on the location of the ascent.

For example, almost all ice climbing routes in the Alps involve paying 30 euros per person. If you make long hikes, you have to pay 100 euros.

What are the most popular alpine climbing destinations?

There are several places where almost all lovers of alpine climbing prefer to come.

Mont Blanc

This elevation is on the border of two countries – France and Italy. This is one of the most famous points in the Alps. Height is about 15748 ft. Therefore, the peak is considered one of the highest in all of Western Europe. This place is chosen by both experienced climbers and beginners.

Every year, more than 20 thousand people attempt to conquer the top. There are 5 technical routes to reach the goal here. Almost all of them are from France, except one route – Courmayeur.

The most popular route is Guter and Mont. You can’t call them too complicated. The journey may take several days. The top of Mont Blanc is considered medium in terms of difficulty. The climb is quite steep, so you have to combine big wall climbing in the snow and rock climbing.

The danger for trad climbers is the constant fall of stones. Snow avalanches may occur. Therefore, you need to be prepared for any danger. The peak season is from June to September. On average, you have to pay $2,000 for the rise.

Matterhorn

This popular destination is also in the Alps, however, on the Swiss side. The height is 14763 ft. The top of the peak has a clear symmetry and a pyramidal shape. So, it immediately stands out. Many climbers try to conquer this peak.

To get to the top, you can use one of eight routes. For beginners, free climbing Hernley Ridge is the best solution. You have to meet rocks and snowy areas along the way. If necessary, you can climb to the top from Italy.

In this case, it makes sense to pay attention to the route of the Lion’s Ridge. It is in great demand due to its length and mixed sections. It takes at least a day to climb the north face. In the beginning, you need to make a 14-hour ascent, which consists of different stages.

The whole journey can take 2-3 days if you are an inexperienced climber. It is recommended to come here from June to September. The cost of the ascent is $3,700.

Orizaba

This is one of the highest mountains in Mexico. It is located at a distance of 186 mi from the capital of Mexico City. Crowds of tourists come here every year. The peak is a dormant volcano, which is completely covered with ice.

It is considered one of the highest in North America and ranks seventh on the list of world volcanic peaks. It has an unusual asymmetrical shape. Because the crater has a non-standard shape, the glacier is located at a low altitude, despite the tropical climate of the region.

There are several routes to get to the top. The route that leads to the Jampa glacier is the most popular among tourists. The climb is long and steep. The slopes of the peak are covered with scree, which makes it difficult to climb. You have to work in a team. Participants must be tied with a rope.

The most difficult thing is to cross the edge of the crater. Only after that, it is possible to get to the high side, which is located in the southeast. If you are an experienced climber, you can choose a more difficult route – Ruta del Sur. Throughout the southern slope of the mountain, there are numerous ropes for free climbing.

You have to climb through snow and ice. Only then can reach the top of the crater. The height of the peak is about 18405 ft. On average, the ascent takes 2 days. It is recommended to come here from November to May.

Mount Shuksan

This mountain is located on the border of the USA and Canada, almost in the center of the famous North Cascade National Park. Almost all lovers of alpine climbing in North America come to this mountain. The height of the mountain in North Cascade National Park is 9428 ft. Therefore, it is considered the highest non-volcanic mountain located in the Cascade Range.

It is included in the list of the top 50 places in North America suitable for classical climbing. Even though the height of the mountain is insignificant, here you can find many interesting opportunities for mountain climbing to the top.

In total, there are 14 routes, which differ from each other. Therefore, this place is the best option for all lovers of alpine climbing, regardless of the level of experience. For beginners, Sulfur Glacier is the best route. You need to cross the glacier of the same name and then get to the top of the pyramid.

After that, there is moderate difficulty climbing. If you consider yourself an experienced climber, you can pay attention to the route called Fischer Chimneys. It does not pass through the glacier. However, you have to face steep alpine climbs where rocks and snow meet.

Often people choose other routes, including the Price Glacier and the North Face. It is very complex. Here, climbers have to show all their climbing skills. It is recommended to come here from July to October. The cost of the ascent is $1,000.

Mount Hood

It is the highest point in Oregon. Almost all climbers from this state come here. You can find the mountain at a distance of 49.7 mi southeast of Portland. Its height is about 11482 ft. Even though the height is insignificant, the peak can be safely attributed to the average level of difficulty.

However, there is evidence that one woman climbed to the top, being in heels. Because the volcanic cone has a sufficient circumference, about 30 routes are located along its perimeter. All of them differ in the level of difficulty. Most tourists often prefer only 6 routes.

Regardless of your choice, big wall climbing requires certain technical skills. You need to overcome the glacier using mixed climbing. There are a large number of cracks in the glaciers, so the group has to move in a bundle.

The easiest way to reach the top is by taking the Southside route. It is located in the southern part of the mountain, and you need to climb the glacier. After, you need to go through a series of gutters made of snow and reach the top.

The journey can take from 2 to 3 days. It is recommended to come here from April to June. You have to pay about 600 dollars for the ascent.

FAQ

When it comes to alpine climbing, there are many questions to ask.

Results

As you can see, alpine climbing is a universal sport that involves climbing to the top of a mountain. It can be presented in different techniques. However, they have one goal – to conquer the top of the mountain. Read also: How long do climbing shoes last and how to keep them in good condition