"Spelunking" refers to the outdoor activity of exploring caves and caverns, either for fun or research. In the 2003 adventure called The Core, however, a team of specialists take spelunking to the ultimate level by drilling down to the very center of the Earth.

A secret government experiment has caused the planet's molten core to stop its natural rotation, which affects the Earth's electromagnetic field. Without this protective energy layer, people with pacemakers start dropping dead, birds fly off-course and the Sun's rays start burning people and buildings to a crisp.

The quickest way to get the core moving again is by sending a submersible ship through the layers of rock and molten lava and then detonating a series of nuclear warheads. In order to survive the heat, Dr. Ed "Brazz" Brazzleton (*Delroy Lindo*) creates a substance that he calls "unobtanium," which resists extreme temperatures and pressure. The good doctor also has a laser drill capable of drilling through the toughest rock.

In a ship outfitted with Dr. Brazzleton's inventions, the team, led by Commander Robert Iverson (*Bruce Greenwood*), drills through the bottom of the Pacific Ocean. As the first humans to go deep below the surface of the Earth, they see amazing things, such as huge diamonds formed from the tremendous heat and pressure. The deeper they drill, however, the greater the danger becomes.

An entertaining scientific fantasy, The Core takes cave exploration to new depths. It also shows what could theoretically happen if the Earth's electromagnetic field did start to erode. In one early scene, for instance, Major Rebecca Childs (*Hilary Swank*) has to find a safe place to land a space shuttle when magnetic interference wipes out her guidance system.

The Core does get a little grisly at times, showing in graphic detail what happens when unfiltered solar radiation hits the Earth. Even the best sunscreens can't help you when nothing stands between your face and the rays of the Sun.

A fun, but sometimes unbelievable adventure, The Core is one way to heat up a night of movie watching at home.

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/

On the campy, live-action "Batman" television series, the Caped Crusader and the Boy Wonder often were shown climbing up the steep side of a building. Even though this stunt was achieved with clever camera work, dedicated climbers can do in Victoria, Australia, what Batman and Robin could imagine only in their wildest dreams.

Located outside the town of Melbourne, Staughton Vale is a climbing destination whose peaks have such unusual names as "Cousin Jack," and the more ominous-sounding "Acid and Afterbirth." When tackling this mountain, make sure not to break "The First Commandment," a 30-meter climb, or it might just break you.

On Staughton Vale, you also can try your hand (and feet) at abseiling down the craggy mountain face. Melbourne has a few good climbing schools that can teach you the finer aspects of rope work and rappelling down a rock wall. Like the person who packs your parachute when skydiving, you want only the best teachers showing you the, uh, ropes.

You don't have to be crazy to enjoy mountain climbing, but a pair of Mad Rock's Super Loco shoes definitely can help make your abseiling experience a lot more enjoyable. The heel and toe hook on the Super Loco come in handy on those tricky descents, especially if you are new to abseiling.

If your travels "Down Under" bring you close to the Melton Area, try your new mad rope skills at Werribee Gorge. You and a climbing buddy can spend the day rappelling down the Gorge, an area favored by many abseilers.

Once you are in Australia, there are a few different ways to reach Staughton Vale or Werribee Gorge, the easiest being by car. If you want more of a workout, bring your bicycle along for a more scenic tour of the Australian wildlife.

With climbs of all heights and difficulty levels, Staughton Vale is a great place to go when your job has you at the end of your rope.

Sources:
http://www.chockstone.org/Staughton/Staughton.htm
http://www.theage.com.au/articles/2007/09/07/1188783430588.html?page=2

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.

For serious climbing enthusiasts, just the mention of places such as Mount Everest or the explosive volcano known as Mount St. Helens can get their hearts pounding. Reaching the summit of one of these dangerous mountains and making it back in one piece is a real accomplishment.

Though not quite as hazardous as other locations, Colorado's Grizzly Peak is aptly named, because for some athletes, it can be a real bear to climb, especially in the winter months. Skiers looking for a thrill also enjoy the challenges of making it down the steep slopes of Grizzly.

Located in Summit County, near the Continental Divide, this mountain reaches a height of 13,988 feet, making it the state's highest "thirteener." Because you will be climbing thousands of feet above sea level, you need to be aware of the potential dangers of altitude sickness. When tackling this peak, make sure that your body is conditioned for the thinner air.

Depending on your skill level, there are different ways to enjoy the trip up Grizzly Peak. Novice climbers can get gain some experience by taking the route that leads up to Mount Sniktau. If this is one of your first climbs, you also can start your ascent from Chihuahua Gulch, although you probably won't find any talking dogs that are hungry for Taco Bell.

The summer months are the best time to summit Grizzly Peak. During the winter, the snow and ice make the trek a lot more dangerous, especially with the constant threat of avalanches. In this area, however, high winds are possible year round, so it's always advisable to check the weather conditions before heading out.

In addition to climbing boots and a sturdy backpack, make sure to pack some good outerwear like the North Face's Hybrid Jacket. This gear helps block out the wind, keeping you warm and dry as you make your way to the summit.

No matter if you are ready to go toe-to-toe with the bear, or you are still growling at the Chihuahua, Grizzly Peak is an ideal climbing destination.

Resources:
http://www.summitpost.org/mountain/rock/152333/grizzly-peak.html
http://www.peakware.com/peaks.html?pk=613

How would you like to climb a pile of rocks named after one of the most reviled insects of all time? Actually, The Roaches in England's Peak District are officially called Roches, which is French for "rocks," but it's hard to deny that the name makes it a bit scarier than it might be otherwise.

The Roaches is a collection of towering rock walls that have been climbed for the last century. The biggest benefit to this type of climb is the diversity of routes, which range from "moderate" to various levels of "extremely severe." Indeed, there are a few routes at The Roaches that frighten even the most experienced climbers.

According to The Roaches web site, air ambulances make a trip to this legendary site just about every weekend to assist the fallen and presumably broken. Many of these accidents happen because climbers underestimate the difficulty of the climb and try it anyway.

In fact, The Roaches even uses mountaineering teams to rescue fallen climbers who are inaccessible to emergency medical personnel. If someone falls and lands on one of the ledges, he or she is brought down to safety by these groups. Of course, it is much easier to avoid such a scenario in the first place.

As most seasons at The Roaches are chilly, you'll want to wear a jacket that is breathable but warm. The North Face Razor, for example, is designed to block the frigid force of the wind but employs HyVent technology that won't leave you smothering in the jacket. You'll also need a pair of sturdy gloves and a set of rock-climbing tools.

When you first attempt The Roaches, it is best to try an easier route, and then work up as you get more comfortable. Starting on moderate routes, for example, will warm you up for more difficult climbs and will acclimate you to the face of the rock. You will also have to get used to setting your own anchors, because it is tradition at The Roaches to remove pegs before completing a climb.

Oh, and although you won't find many roaches at this site, be on the lookout for other unique forms of wildlife that make their home in the area.

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/

Mountains get classified as dangerous for a number of reasons, not the least of which are their height and extreme weather conditions. Some climbing destinations are formed from the eruptions of active or dormant volcanoes or contain such hazards as buried landmines or large falling rocks.

Pennsylvania's Wopsononock Mountain holds the distinction, however, of being a peak that serves as the home for a famous ghost. According to the web site Pennsylvania Mountains of Attractions, an apparition known as the "The White Lady" occasionally appears on Wopsononock, which also is affectionately called "Wopsy Mountain."

Local legends vary slightly on what the beautiful ghost is looking for and why she's hanging around this particular mountain. One variation of the story says that her husband was killed while traveling on the treacherous mountain road. Other people believe that the White Lady is seeking her baby, which reportedly was thrown from a horse-drawn carriage near the dangerous curve called Devil's Elbow.

Though this tale sounds like something you'd hear around the campfire at summer camp, some drivers claim that they gave a ride to an attractive woman who was standing near Devil's Elbow on Wopsy Mountain Road. The White Lady always disappears, though, before the car leaves the mountain.

Even if you don't believe in ghosts or the supernatural, Wopsononock, which is a part of the Allegheny Mountain Range, is a great vacation spot for families and climbing enthusiasts. At the top lies Wopsy Lookout, which gives visitors a breathtaking, panoramic view on a clear day. If you pack your camera in a Mountainsmith Beacon bag, it'll stay safe and secure as you look for the White Lady.

Wopsy Lookout also has the notorious reputation of being a "Lover's Leap." It's difficult to tell if couples actually have jumped off the edge of the cliff or if this is just another part of the Wopsy Mountain legend.

Wopsononock doesn't offer a lot of great climbing opportunities, but the legend of the White Lady makes it an attractive place to head, especially for aspiring ghost hunters.

Sources:

http://www.pennsylvania-mountains-of-attractions.com/whiteladyofwopsy.html

With the very real possibility of high altitude sickness and hypothermia, Mother Nature makes some mountains potentially deadly for climbers. In addition to these natural hazards, Mount Llullaillaco, a dormant volcano, also has some hidden dangers that could literally cause you to go to pieces.

Llullaillaco, whose name translates as "murky water", is the fifth highest volcano in the world, with the last reported eruption occurring in the 19th Century. Located at the border of Chile and Argentina, this mountain also contains several antipersonnel mines, a leftover from an earlier conflict between the two countries surrounding it.

The peak has some real historical significance as well. In 1999, archaeologists found the well-preserved bodies of three young Inca children at the top. Scientists have determined that the youngsters, who have since been dubbed "The Children of Llullaillaco," were left there as a sacrifice to the gods 500 years ago.

With icy climbing conditions and the mines lurking on the mountain, you definitely should seek the help of local authorities before tackling Llullaillaco. On SummitPost.org, climber Fabrice Rimlinger recommends contacting the Chilean National Parks and Wildlife Service (CONAF) for guidance.

Though you can approach the mountain from either Chile or Argentina, Rimlinger also points out that there is no public transportation to Llullaillaco, which means that you will have to do quite a bit of driving before and after the climb. The camping facilities also are pretty basic, making this more of a rugged journey even for an experienced climber.

Reaching a height of 22,000 feet, climbing Llullaillaco also means conditioning your body for the thinner air as you approach the peak. To cross the ice fields and snow, you definitely will need an ice axe, crampons and some high-altitude boots.

With all the preparation it takes to reach the top, Mount Llullaillaco definitely is not for the casual climber. If you are willing to take the time to get ready, climbing this volcano is a unique experience. Always remember, though, that on Llullaillaco, stepping in the wrong spot can have explosive consequences.

Resources:

http://www.peakware.com/peaks.html?pk=1197
http://www.summitpost.org/mountain/rock/184475/llullaillaco.html
http://www.mundoandino.com/Chile/Llullaillaco
http://www.washintonpost.com/wp-srv/national/daily/april99/mummies07.htm

Many California tourists have made a pilgrimage to Anaheim to visit Disneyland, the 53-year-old theme park that contains their version of Switzerland's Matterhorn Mountain. Unlike the actual peak, the worst parts about "climbing" Disney's Matterhorn are the long lines for the bathrooms and finding your car in the parking lot at the end of the day.

Rising 14,692 feet above sea level, the real Matterhorn is not as high as some of the other mountains that have earned a deadly reputation, but appearances, in this case, are deceiving. The first team to successfully reach the summit in 1865 lost four members during their descent, leaving only three climbers alive to tell the tale.

Breathtakingly beautiful but potentially lethal, the Matterhorn is so steep that climbing it does present a real challenge. In addition to lots of rope work, to reach the summit, you'll need to be as sure-footed as a mountain goat on some of the icier surfaces. These days, approximately 15 climbers die during their attempt on their way to the top or on the trip down. More than a thousand others find themselves in serious trouble and have to be rescued.

The Matterhorn definitely is not a climb for novices and, because of the real dangers involved, contracting with a guide service is highly recommended. The experienced staff provides guidance and training before you start your ascent, making their fees a good investment in your expedition.

Unlike some of the more inhospitable climbing destinations, the Matterhorn throws its towering shadow over Zermatt, a beautiful and welcoming little Swiss village. No matter if you are there to climb or to ski, Zermatt is a great place to visit, with churches, restaurants and a 9-hole golf course if you decide to bring your clubs along.

The one thing that you won't find in Zermatt is a gas-guzzling automobile. The village only allows green transportation, such as electric cars and sleighs. To get into Zermatt, you will have to take an environmentally-friendly bus or train.

If you can't resist the siren call of this mountain, make sure that you are equipped and fully-prepared to make this dangerous climb. This Matterhorn definitely isn't kid stuff.

Resources:

http://www.destination360.com/europe/switzerland/matterhorn.php
http://www.zermatt.ch/e/matterhorn/
http://www.climb.mountains.com/Classic_Peaks_files/European_Classics_files/Matterhorn.htm
http://www.ski-zermatt.com/mattnet/features/walking_guide/around_zermatt.html
http://www.zermatt.ch/index.e.html

Even with good physical conditioning, you only have a 1-in-5 chance of surviving Kangchenjunga.

To successfully reach the summits of the truly big mountains, a climber needs all the necessary permits, essential survival gear and, most of all, respect for the mountain itself. As long as climbers have attempted to summit Kangchenjunga, the third largest mountain in the world, has commanded more respect than many other peaks.

Located on the Sikkim-Nepal border, this beautiful landmark has a name that, roughly translated, means the "Five Treasures of the Great Snow." The treasures, in this instance, refer to Kangchengjunga's five peaks, each of which exceeds 8,000 meters in height.

In 1955, Charles Evans led a successful British expedition to the top of Kangchenjunga, but out of respect for the Sikkimese people and their reverence for the mountain, they stopped short of the summit. Some of the later expeditions also intentionally came within a few steps of the top before turning back.

With its heavy rain and snowfall, if you decide to tackle this mountain, you may face a double whammy of avalanches and mudslides. With a height of 28,169 feet, climbing Kangchenjunga also involves the real danger of altitude sickness. Make sure you go prepared with a medical kit, such as the SAM Splint, which is so lightweight and compact that you won't even notice it in your bag. But beware: a medical kit can only help you so much. Some climbers have simply disappeared while making an attempt for the Kangchengjunga summit.

Though not the deadliest mountain in the world, in all the recorded attempts at the summit, Kanchenjunga has a 20 percent fatality rate. Those can be pretty hard odds to beat, especially if this is your first 8,000-er.

Climbing season for Kangchenjunga runs from April through October, with the best weather occurring in April and May. For an expedition of seven or fewer members, the climbing fee is approximately $10,000 plus a $3,000 garbage deposit that will be refunded if no trash has been left on the mountain.

In addition to planning the expedition, you'll need to apply for certain permits to gain access to parts of Sikkim, which is located in India. Some areas around Kangchenjunga are completely off-limits, so it's a good idea to check with the Tourism Office when planning an expedition.

Kangchengjunga's natural beauty is only exceeded by the dangers involved in reaching the summit. Besides good physical conditioning, you'll truly need a healthy respect for the "Five Treasures of the Great Snow."

Sources:
http://www.peakware.com/peaks.html?pk=132
http://www.travel-himalayas.com/himalayan-mountains-peaks/kangchenjunga-kanchenjunga.html
http://www.hindu.com/mag/2005/02/20/stories/2005022000500200.htm http://www.mounteverest.net/news.php?id=15602
http://www.peakware.com/peaks.html

Also known as Mount McKinley, Denali rises more than 20,000 feet above sea level.

Things may grow bigger in Texas, but Alaska plays host to Mount Denali, one of the famous "Seven Summits" and the highest mountain on the North American continent. With an altitude that exceeds 20,000 feet, it's also one of the most difficult mountains in the world to tackle, even for a seasoned, physically fit climber.

Though sometimes referred to as Mount McKinley, Denali, whose name translates as "The Great One" or "The High One," is located about 140 miles north of Anchorage, Alaska. When you get within sight of this beautiful destination, you'll want to get out and climb right away, but preparations definitely are in order, though.

Like Alaska itself, Denali is a study in contrast, with strong winds that can approach 100-mph and cold temperatures. Depending on what time of the year that you decide to challenge Denali, you also could climb on a very warm day with nearly endless hours of sunshine.

Denali is, therefore, a mountain suitable for those who are both physically and mentally ready to climb it, especially due to the high risk of altitude sickness. There are, however, climbing schools located near Mount Denali that can help you get prepared to reach the summit. Experienced guides also are available to assist you in your quest to conquer Denali.

Because this mountain is located in Denali National Park and Preserve, the National Park Service charges a "special use fee" of $200 for every person attempting to climb Denali plus a $10 per person park entrance fee. You also must pre-register with the National Park Service at least 60 days before your attempt.

There are plenty of lodges and hotel near Denali National Park, but one of the recommended places to stay is the town of Talkeetna, which offers air taxi services that offer a close view of Denali before you make the climb. Some of the major airlines service Anchorage and from there, it's about a 120-mile drive to Talkeetna.

No matter if you call it Mount McKinley or Denali, this is one majestic mountain and one of the biggest climbing challenges you'll ever face.

Resources:
PBS Kids: http://pbskids.org/nova/denali/where.html
National Park Service: http://www.nps.gov/dena
Talkeetna Chamber of Commerce: http://www.talkeetna-chamber.com/

With freezing temperatures and strong winds, Mount Washington is suitable only for top-notch climbers.

Though the Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy calls a towel the most useful item to carry in your pack, when attempting to climb to the top of Mount Washington in New Hampshire, you really should have a snow shovel. As the "Home of the World's Worst Weather," the summit is one of the most dangerous places to reach during the winter months (between October and May).

Arguably one of the toughest climbs in the continental United States, Mount Washington rises 6,288 feet above sea level, but the height isn't the biggest issue here. With an average annual snowfall of 256 inches and an average temperature of 26.5 degrees Fahrenheit, if the hypothermia doesn't get you during a climb, an avalanche could possibly bury you or one of your companions.

Falling ice can also be a big problem when attempting to reach the summit. Recent climbing advisories have reported frozen chunks the size of automobiles, which have smashed into rocks and turned them into dangerous flying missiles.

Suffice it to say, only the most experienced climbers should even think about climbing to the top of Mount Washington. The extreme cold combined with the high altitude and gale-force winds can sap the strength from even the most seasoned veteran, so make sure never to climb alone. Avalanches are typically a big problem during the winter months, so make sure to pack a good snow shovel and an avalanche beacon.

Despite the dangerous climate, the summit is home to the Mount Washington Observatory, which has monitored weather conditions and conducted scientific research since 1932. If climbing isn't an option, you can reach the summit by driving up the auto road or riding the cog railway between May and October. Even in the summer months, the weather can take a nasty turn, so it's always a good idea to check the conditions before heading out.

No matter how you attempt to reach the top, Mount Washington is one heck of a climb.

Sources:
http://home.earthlink.net/~ellozy/washington.html
Mount Washington Information: http://www.mountwashington.com/
Mount Washington Observatory: http://www.mountwashington.org/about/visitor/
The Cog Railway: http://www.thecog.com/
Mount Washington Auto Road: http://www.mountwashingtonautoroad.com/