For many of us, the word "Niagara" is synonymous with "big". You've got Niagara Falls, of course, but the mountain climbers among us will be more impressed with Niagara Peak. It might not be the highest point in the country, but it's nothing to sneeze at.

This 13er (13,786 feet, to be exact) is located in the San Juan Mountains of Colorado, not far from several other ambitious summits. The triangular shape of Niagara Peak combined with the beautiful view climbers enjoy at the top make it a pleasurable climb as well as technical.

Both the approach and the face of Niagara Peak are rocky and pitted, making for slow climbing if you aren't used to the terrain. A pair of sturdy hiking boots with high ankles for extra support and a set of thick gloves are absolutely essential for this climb.

Additionally, make sure you check the weather before you attempt to climb Niagara Peak. The weather here is unpredictable, offering snowfall and rain on the unlikeliest of days. The last thing you want is to get stuck on the side of a treacherous mountain with thunder ringing in your ears.

The great thing about climbing Niagara Peak, however, is that you're within close proximity of several other summits. For example, many expert climbers traverse both Niagara Peak and Jones Mountain on the same hike. There are also a few unnamed peaks in the vicinity that you might want to try if you're feeling adventurous.

There are two basic approaches to Niagara Peak. The most difficult is to approach via the saddle between Niagara and Jones, which is marked by heavy tundra and often difficult to cross in the early winter. However, you can also approach on the northeast side directly opposite Jones, which offers a sheer face but less brush on the ground to deal with.

In addition to the amazing climb offered at Niagara Peak, there is also some beautiful hiking to be done in this region. Abandoned mines, beautiful woods and a few scattered streams and ponds make for lots of wildlife, and you can easily spend an entire week exploring on foot or horseback.

Some climbing destinations, like Mount McKinley or Mount Washington, have names that don't truly indicate the dangers involved in making your way to the peak. With Suicide Rock, however, it's pretty obvious that, depending on where you climb, you will be pushing your abilities to their absolute limits.

Located in Idyllwild, California, Suicide Rock rises approximately 7,528 feet into the air and can be climbed during all four seasons. The name, by the way, comes from a story involving a Native American princess. When her father, the tribal chief, demanded that she stay away from her true love, the legend says that her grief made her jump off the rock to her death.

It's not clear how much of this story is fact or fiction, but the dangers of Suicide Rock are all too real. In August, the Fox News affiliate in Los Angeles reported that two climbers were seriously injured when trying to climb the rock in a rainstorm. According to the report, the lead climber fell 85 feet and hit his partner, knocking them both off Suicide Rock.

This real-life tale indicates the need to be prepared for the changing weather conditions that you may encounter on a climb. For a destination like Suicide Rock, bouldering shoes like the Boreal Ninja can help ensure that your footing is secure.

Despite the obvious dangers, there are approximately 300 routes up Suicide Rock, some of which are suitable for beginners while others require a higher level of skill. With names like "Captain Hook," "Godzilla Face" and "Right of the Escalator," someone obviously had a lot of fun naming the various walls and approaches.

SummitPost.org recommends May through October as the best months to challenge Suicide Rock. Snow and ice can become a problem in December, depending on the California weather conditions and water levels.
With the right equipment and preparation, Suicide Rock can be a fun and challenging climb, but as those climbers demonstrated back in August, it can be a long way down under the wrong conditions.

Sources:
http://www.idyllwild.com/suicide.html
http://www.summitpost.org/mountain/rock/152269/suicide-rock.html
http://www.myfoxla.com/myfox/pages/News/Detail?contentId=7330304&version=2&locale=EN-US&layoutCode=TSTY&pageId=3.2.1

When asked to come up with a Canadian-themed sketch for the comedy series "Second City TV," cast members Rick Moranis and Dave Thomas created Bob and Doug McKenzie, two backwoods brothers with a taste for beer and jelly doughnuts. Wearing toques on their heads and heavy winter coats, Bob and Doug would feel right at home on Mount Temple, one of the more challenging climbing destinations in the Great White North.

Located near Lake Louise in Banff National Park, Mount Temple reaches a height of 11,624 feet, which means that the dangers of dehydration, altitude sickness and frostbite are very, very real. Before heading to the summit, you might want to have a hearty breakfast of Canadian-style back bacon, but leave the beer back at base camp for the celebration after the climb.

Summitpost.org also advises climbers to watch the weather conditions carefully on Mount Temple because they can change quite quickly. If you expect the route to become cold and slick, make sure to lace up a pair of Kayland Super Ice boots before starting your climb. This sturdy footwear can help you with some of the difficult parts of the climb as well as navigating the icy areas.

Just as Mount Temple attracts climbers of different skill levels, the accommodations in and around Banff National park and Lake Louise vary greatly. If you are looking to really get away from it all, bring along your tent and sleeping bags for an outdoor adventure. After heading down from the summit, however, you may want to relax at one of the mid-level or five-star resorts in the area.

Though Bob and Doug McKenzie may never climb much higher than the counter at the nearest doughnut shop, you can enjoy Canada's natural wonders and the climbing challenges that Mount Temple has to offer. With the right attitude and equipment, you can almost be certain of having a G'day on the way to the summit.

Sources:
http://matadortrips.com/8-massive-mountains-that-mortals-can-summit/print/
http://www.summitpost.org/mountain/rock/150408/mount-temple.html
http://www.pc.gc.ca/pn-np/ab/banff/index_E.asp
http://www.banfflakelouise.com/

Most people don't consider Turkey when looking for great mountain climbing spots, but Mount Erciyes in the Kayseri valley is one of the most challenging mountains in the world. A stratovolcano, Mount Erciyes is 3,916 meters of course, jagged rock.

Although mountain climbing is extremely popular on Mount Erciyes, it is also the site of numerous winter sports. In fact, it is located in the prestigious and luxurious Erciyes Ski Resort, which means that the accommodations when you decide to climb it are far more pleasant than with other mountains. If you don't feel like camping out, you can stay in one of the resort's private cabins.

Mount Erciyes is most often climbed from the northwest side, through there are also difficult routes that lead up from the south. If you want to try this mountain climbing challenge, your best bet is to visit during July and August when the weather is most temperate and there are plenty of mountaineering guides to lend a hand.

This is not only a difficult climb, but also one of the most beautiful in the world. Numerous animals make their homes on the west and east flanks of the mountain, including mountain goats and sheep. At the west summit, climbers are afforded a spectacular view of central Anatolia. The Sutdonduran Plateau is likewise beautiful and is a popular camping spot for climbers during the summer months.

The most dangerous aspect of climbing Mount Erciyes is the potential for avalanches. The surface of the mountain is dry and cracked, with plenty of rock chunks breaking loose on a regular basis. For this reason, a hard hat is recommended on your trip, just in case. I recommend the Black Diamond Half Dome.
You should also make sure to bring several lengths of rope, particularly if you plan to ascend the tower, as well as a warm sleeping bag if you'll be camping. The Mount Erciyes area can get very cold, even in the summer. And if you enjoy yourself, why not come back for a ski weekend in the winter to round out your mountain time?

There are plenty of ways to gain mountain climbing experience, from deep gorges and canyons to great slabs of rock in the hill country. The best way, however, is to go on a good-old-fashioned alpine climb, the kind you read about in books and watch on TV. This is where you run into the nitty-gritty details of climbing, and there is no better destination than Grand Teton.

After all, an entire national park was named after this monstrosity in northwestern Wyoming, and Grand Teton is perfect for large groups with beginners and experts alike. Although you do need previous mountain climbing experience to attempt Grand Teton, there are 5.4 routes easy enough for the intermediate amateur.

The real fun, however, starts with the 5.11 and 5.12 climbs on Grand Teton. Many climbers have failed to even make it to the lower saddle, so this mountain presents a unique challenge in some of the most beautiful country in the world. Surrounded by rugged mountain peaks and grassy valleys (depending on the season), your climb will be complemented by awesome views you'll remember forever.

Most people choose to climb Grand Teton between September and July, when most of the snow and ice is melted and you don't have to worry about blockages near the trailhead. Of course, some mountaineering experts are undeterred by weather and might venture a climb in December or January. If you want to do this, check with local outfitters to inquire about their services.

If you're going to climb Grand Teton, remember that it's cold here all year long. A warm, insulated jacket is absolutely essential, and I recommend trying out the North Face Himalayan Parka, which is part of the Summit Series and designed for cold-weather climbs.

You'll have to pay $20 to get into Grand Teton National Park, and your pass will be good for seven days. Make sure to bring all necessary camping equipment if you plan to stay overnight, but have a back-up plan just in case the weather becomes too extreme. The last thing you want is to be stuck in an alpine environment during a snow storm or blizzard.

Typically, the most difficult aspect of taking on a dangerous mountain is the height. Lose your concentration or footing for just a moment, and you may find that it's a really long way down with a very sudden (and fatal) stop at the bottom.

Reaching a height of 10,278 feet, Cerro Torre in the Patagonia region of Argentina offers the double whammy of height and extreme weather conditions, which can include snow, rain and powerful winds. SummitPost.org reports that climbs on Cerro Torre may take as long as eight days to complete.

The unpredictable weather conditions mean that you need to dress properly before setting one foot on Cerro Torre. One recommended piece of clothing is the R1 Flash Pullover, which is made, appropriately enough, by a company called Patagonia. By itself, the R1 is good in moderate temperatures, but it also can be used as one of many layers when the temperatures start to tumble.

If the height and the weather don't discourage you from climbing Cerro Torre, some of the local conditions might prove hazardous to your health. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends talking to your primary care physician to make sure you are protected against such diseases as rabies, yellow fever and typhoid before heading to Argentina.

The U.S. State Department Web site also recommends making sure your medical insurance will cover a health emergency in a foreign land. Without adequate medical or travel insurance, your climb up Cerro Torre could turn out to be extremely expensive.

Because you will be leaving the United States, you will have to get your paperwork in order, including a current passport. You can obtain a free climbing permit, but members of your party have to pay a small fee to enter Parque Nacional Los Glaciares, the National Park which serves as the home of Cerro Torre.

With bad weather and the very real possibility of disease, Patagonia's Cerro Torre ranks quite high among the most dangerous mountains to climb. Plan carefully, dress warmly and make sure you have all your shots.

Sources:
http://www.summitpost.org/mountain/rock/152103/cerro-torre.html
http://www.travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1130.html

Some of the most treacherous climbs in the United States are difficult, not only because of their pitch or rating, but because they are so crowded it takes all day to get a turn. This isn't the case for Questa Dome in northern New Mexico, which is deserted most of the time but boasts a terrific challenge for the seasoned mountain climber.

Questa Dome towers to 500 feet and offers a total of six climbing routes, which would usually be sufficient to turn off any experienced climber. After all, there are plenty of treacherous climbs in the United States and throughout the world that offer excesses of 100 routes, which usually provides a more fulfilling trip.

However, Questa Dome is unique in that it offers traditional, classic climbing routes, which force climbers to work without the use of bolts. Each of the six routes is rated between a 5.11 and 5.13, which means that they are challenging even for experienced climbers. Plus, the view from the top of Questa Dome is not to be missed.

Furthermore, Questa Dome does not offer any convenient stopping places where climbers can rest. From bottom to top and back down again, it is a continuous climb that will test your endurance and leave you breathless - both from the climb and from the scenery.

The two original routes on Questa Dome are called "Question of Balance" and "Another Pretty Face." Both of these are packed with crags, cracks, gouges and other complicated obstacles that require climbers to pull out a full arsenal of techniques. Indeed, Questa Dome is one of the few climbs in the U.S. that require so many different techniques without having to switch to a new route.

The approach to Questa Dome takes approximately 45 minutes and is a beautiful hike through New Mexico's wilderness. Make sure to wear a pair of comfortable shoes (with your climbing shoes in your pack) such as the Adidas' Terrex Swifts. You'll want plenty of ankle support for climbing over rocky terrain, and these are breathable enough for the New Mexico heat.

Oh, I don't recommend climbing Questa Dome if you suffer from arachnophobia. There are plenty of spiders in this region, including tarantulas that make their homes in the shelters of rocks along the approach to Questa Dome.

Climbing is a sport that attracts people from all walks of life, especially those who enjoy the challenges and thrills of reaching the top of a particularly difficult summit. The Berwyn Mountains are, however, one of the few climbing destinations in the world that would attract someone like Fox Mulder from television's "The X-Files."

Located in Wales, the Berwyn Mountain Range is the site of an incident that has been referred to as the "British Roswell." On January 23, 1974, witnesses in the surrounding area said they saw and felt a disc-like craft crash into the mountains.

Like the reported alien landing at Roswell, NM, the truth behind what really crashed into the Welsh mountains remains shrouded in mystery to this day. Many UFO enthusiasts are convinced that the British government confiscated an alien spaceship, but officials have dismissed such theories.

Even without visitors from another world, the Berwyn Range is a great, if somewhat challenging destination for climbing enthusiasts. Reaching a height of 2,723 ft., this area also plays host to the Berwyn Mountain Walk, which attracts both climbers and runners.

Because it isn't as high as other peaks, Berwyn might seem safe, but appearances in this case can be deceiving. Mist and low cloud cover can make your climb more difficult, as can the thick heather that covers the ground. This isn't a walk in the park, so you do need to be in good physical shape before tackling Berwyn.

The organizers of the Mountain Walk also are quick to point out that the weather can become pretty severe on the way to the top. Good protection is key to surviving Berwyn, so it may be time to invest in a sturdy Cloudveil Koven Plus Jacket. This gear can keep you warm and dry if climbing conditions suddenly turn unfavorable.

While not high on the list of dangerous mountains, the Berwyn Range does offer some serious challenges for both novice and experienced climbers. As Fox Mulder always points out, the truth is out there and it may just be at the top of these mountains.

Sources:
http://www.dangerousmountains.com/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Berwyn_Mountains
http://www.summitpost.org/area/range/155328/the-berwyn-range.html
http://snowdonia.org.uk/

The next time you are in Boulder, Colorado, you might want to check out Eldorado Canyon. "Eldo" is one of the most challenging mountain-climbing experiences in the U.S., featuring plenty of crags, cracks and sheer faces.

Located just outside Boulder, Eldorado Canyon draws thousands of climbing enthusiasts each year from every corner of the world. It isn't that the climb is all that difficult, though routes range from baby beginner to extremely advanced, rather, the complexity of the routes and the confusing nature of the canyon present unique challenges.

In fact, most people require guides if they are going to climb in Eldorado Canyon. It is easy to get lost and wind up on a route that is too difficult for your experience, and you shouldn't try to determine pitch grade without a guide or guidebook.

As far as routes, you'll have your pick once you start your climb at Eldorado Canyon. There are more than 500 ways to scale this beautiful canyon, starting with 5.6 climbs such as Wind Ridge and 5.8 climbs like The Bastille Crack.

If you're really feeling adventurous, try the Iron Monkey, a recently-added 5.14 climb that is sure to get your blood pumping. However, make sure you know your strength and your abilities before you try some of the more treacherous climbs.

This climb is particularly difficult in the height of summer, when humidity adds to the oppressive heat. The rock face becomes slick and therefore difficult to navigate, so make sure you bring a pair of high quality gloves. You'll also need a harness with plenty of gear loops, such as the Black Diamond Alpine Bod harness.

To get to Eldorado Canyon from Boulder, hope on CO Hwy 93 South, then head west on Eldorado Springs Drive, which is just past the city limits of Boulder.

Colorado is one of the best places in the world to go when you need a good climb, and Eldorado is just one option among many. Although you are unlikely to get bored here, check out some of the other areas around Boulder for different challenges.

For some mountain climbers, altitude is everything, which is why so many attempt to climb Cho Oyu every year. Cho Oyu is located on the border between Tibet and Nepal, with an elevation of 8,201 meters. Although it is considered one of the easier of the 8,000-meter peaks, this is not a climb you want to take lightly.

Unlike many of the other mountains you might attempt to climb, the obstacles with Cho Oyu will begin long before you throw on your climbing gear. The requirements of the Chinese authorities have become more stringent over the years, and several permits are required to begin the climb.

Some climbers make it all the way to Tibet, only to discover that they can't climb Cho Oyu at all. Talk about a wasted trip! If you're going to initiate this climb, make sure your paperwork is in order and go through an experienced outfitter with the necessary knowledge to make sure your trek happens.

The other major problem with climbing Cho Oyu is the altitude. Ice, snow and debris aren't as much of a concern as with other mountains, but altitude sickness is common once you've crested 25,000 feet. This is particularly true if you climb in the late fall when the temperatures drop precipitously.

Layers are important to toughing out the differences in temperature from the start of the climb to the finish. For ladies, a lightweight hooded sweatshirt such as the North Face Oso is great to have on underneath your down suit, just in case the sun decides to peak out from behind the clouds. For men, try the Men's North Face SDS 1/4 Zip.

As far as preparation, you'll need to focus on any aerobic activity you can think of. Running stairs, joining a kickboxing class, purchasing aerobic exercises DVDs and whatever you can think of to increase your lung capacity and prepare your body for the assault of climbing Cho Oyu. Since the altitude deprives your muscles of precious oxygen, you can't prepare enough for this trek.

That said, most people who climb Cho Oyu call it a "rush," and claim that very few mountains are as exhilarating. Just don't forget your mother's timeless advice: Drink plenty of fluids.

It's not every day that you get to head off an Alpine adventure, climb a mountain and play the leading role in your next man-vs.-nature saga. Climbing can be an exhilarating experience and puts your physical abilities and survival skills to the test. Getting across the rockiest hills, trekking over icy territory and camping in inclement weather are just a few challenges of a treacherous climb. Preparing with the right gear can help you tackle the next exciting climbing adventure like a pro, but since you need to keep it light, balancing necessity and function is an absolute must.

One of the essentials for climbing is the trusty first aid kit. The kit needs to be stocked with all the basic emergency survival supplies in the event that you scrape your knee on an ice patch, be assaulted by a swarm of ants during an evening meal, or if you just need a band aid for cuts and scrapes acquired on your trek. The Adventure Medical Cuts & Bolts Kit is a handy pack that features basic medication, wound care ointments, bandage materials and even basic straps and tape to help you fix your gear.

A reliable and versatile headlamp is another essential for surviving a treacherous climb. If you're still working your way up the mountain when the sun goes down, you'll need some extra help to navigate your path. The Black Diamond Ion is a teeny-tiny lamp that fits conveniently on your forehead, but don't let the size fool you. This lamp is made with two extra-bright LED bulbs and weighs under an ounce. Adjustable headlamps make it easier to use your hands for the actual climb and keep your eye on the prize - reaching the top of the mountain.

You'll also need to pack some snacks and water to sustain your energy levels during the demanding trek. Packing food that gives you energy for the long haul may be as simple as stocking up on granola bars, trail mix and nutrition bars that are easy to eat on the go and give you a fuss-free energy boost when you need it. Just pack the necessary food items in the convenient side pocket of a climbing backpack like the Jansport Whittaker Soloist, and you'll have easy access to the goods at any moment.

Whenever I think of climbing, my mind always drifts to beautiful mountain peaks and long trails lined with every type of wildlife imaginable. For some climbers, however, it's all about the vertical.

At one time, El Capitan in Yosemite National Park was considered impossible to climb and for good reason. Each of the many routes to the top of El Capitan is long and treacherous, testing both the climber's skill and his endurance. Of course, it's also the ultimate adrenaline rush for people who enjoy looking at the world from the face of a rock.

Made of coarse granite and soaring 3,000 feet in the air, El Capitan is considered the Everest for big-wall climbing. Although I've seen it in person - on vacation when I was about ten - mere pictures of this monolith are sufficient to give me goose bumps.

The routes up El Capitan vary, but the most popular and most difficult is the Nose. It was first successfully climbed in 1958, and since then climbers from all over the world have aspired to reach the summit. This route usually takes two or three days to accomplish, though a few expert climbers have conquered it in just one.

A few of the routes, including the Nose, have been free climbed, but aids are definitely recommended. Unless you have significant experience (and a need for danger), ropes should accompany your expedition in Yosemite. A few climbers who thrive on challenges have raced up the Nose and other routes on El Capitan, but this is also not for an amateur.

In order to climb El Capitan, you'll access it from a trail in Yosemite. I recommend bringing along a light-weight and roomy pack, such as C.A.M.P. Rox, a 40-liter duffel with plenty of space.

I would also recommend becoming proficient at a few smaller big-wall climbs before attempting El Capitan. It might be exciting and adventurous, but it has also been the cause of many injuries over the years. If you have any qualms at all, go with an experienced guide who can "show you the ropes," as they say.

Mountain climbing isn't always as treacherous in the United States as it is overseas, but there is always the exception to the rule. Take, for instance, Mt. McKinley, which is located in Denali National Park in Alaska. McKinley is the highest peak in all of North America, and despite its unmistakable beauty, this mountain is one of the most dangerous climbs you could ever attempt.

The main issue with Mt. McKinley, of course, is the temperature. You expect freezing weather in Alaska, but the summits of this particular mountain go beyond mere frigidity. Temperatures of -50 degrees C are not unheard of, and the lowest recorded temperatures are far below that. In order to fair well on Mt. McKinley, you'll need to dress with the intention of keeping all your fingers and toes intact.

In addition to a heavy thermal coat, long underwear, a hat that protects your ears and thermal pants, you'll also want to protect your feet. This is probably the downfall of most climbers who attempt to ascend and wind up in a hospital.

The EuroSock Ascent Wool is a good choice because it provides warmth, ankle support and moisture management, while increasing circulation. Socks intended for skiing, snow-boarding and mountain-climbing are usually your best bet.

It is also important to remember that, when conquering America's highest peak, you have to deal with the nasty side effects of such high altitude. Altitude sickness is more common than you might imagine on Mt. McKinley, because climbers underestimate the need to prepare.

Before you leave, make sure you are able to tolerate the loss of oxygen and moisture in the air. On your hike, watch for signs of altitude sickness in both yourself and the people around you; if someone seems to be falling ill, an immediate descent is necessary. No one needs to die just because you want to be able to say you climbed Mt. McKinley.

Of course, the main summit of Mt. McKinley provides one of the most beautiful views in the world, and you'll have an opportunity to see enormous glaciers up close. Just be aware that preparation is needed to climb this particular mountain, so make plans before you start packing your gear.

Mention Australia to the average person and they probably will think of three things: kangaroos, koalas and Michael J. "Crocodile" Dundee, the rugged outdoorsman played by comedian Paul Hogan in a popular series of films. The Dundee character, who lived in Australia's Northern Territory, earned his nickname after allegedly surviving a crocodile attack.

For climbers, the Northern Territory offers something more enticing than a wisecracking crocodile fighter, namely the destination called Mount Uluru. Also known as Ayers Rock, this mountain attracts thousands of visitors each year, many of whom are bound and determined to climb to the top of this unique formation.

Located in Uluru, Kata Tjuta National Park, Ayers Rock is just 986 feet, but the climb to the top is fairly steep, even for a veteran climber. Though it looks like an easy mountain to tackle from the ground, some people have died from heart failure during the climb.

Besides the physical challenges, there are other roadblocks that could interfere with your plans to visit Mount Uluru. The Anangu people are the owners and guardians of this rock formation, and they consider it sacred. They have posted signs asking tourists to please keep off the mountain.

Despite the expressed wishes of the Anangu, there are no laws preventing you from climbing Ayers Rock. It's not uncommon to see enthusiasts heading up Uluru, but the decision to climb is up to you and your conscience.

If Ayers Rock is too strong for you to resist, make sure to invest in a good pair of climbing shoes, such as Boreal Ace. With a pair of Aces on your feet, you should be able to reach the top and get a bird's-eye view of the Northern Territory.

Australia is a land of natural wonders, not the least of which is the beautiful Mount Uluru. You may not see Paul Hogan tossing another "shrimp on the Barbie," but for those who take their chances on Ayers Rock, the experience can be memorable.

Sources:

http://www.outback-australia-travel-secrets.com/climbing-ayers-rock-uluru.html
http://www.environment.gov.au/parks/uluru/

Although there are plenty of mountains to climb in the United States, experienced and adventurous climbers might prefer to leave the U.S. behind in favor of foreign conquests. One of the most treacherous obstacles is the Eiger, which is located in the Swiss Alps and has claimed 60 lives since 1935.

Eiger's most difficult challenge lies in the Nordwand, or the north face, of the mountain, which is also the most popular goal for modern climbers. Although it isn't as technically complicated as many of the other Alpine faces, a considerable amount of yearly rock fall and ice makes it dangerous.

In fact, the Nordwand is often called the Mordwand by locals, which translates as "murder wall." This certainly isn't the climb for beginners seeking experience.

Because the number of deaths due to climbing and rock fall has increased significantly in the last couple of decades, climbing Eiger isn't always the brightest idea. You should have significant climbing experience before attempting this type of climb, and you should be capable of carrying sufficient equipment to get out of a tight situation.

It is also important to note that most people prefer to climb Eiger during the winter months, because a hardened shell of ice decreases the chances of injury by rock fall. The elevation and the general climate of this area are treacherous in itself, so you'll need to be prepared for winter emergencies. Your first aid kit should include everything from matches to moleskin to EMT sheers, just in case something goes wrong.

Before you decide to climb Eiger, make sure that you've chosen the most ideal weather conditions for your trek, preferably a high-pressure system with little chance for precipitation. If you don't live in the area, you can use the Internet for research, or you can contact a local outfitter to keep you posted.

Eiger is certainly one of the most exciting climbs in the world, despite the fact that there are numerous peaks far more technically difficult. If you attempt this climb, it is always best to do so with someone more experienced than yourself.