Underestimating a mountain is never a good idea. Mount Hood in eastern Oregon is not as high as many summits in the area, nor is it as long a hike as Shasta and some of the others peaks. However, thousands of climbers attempt Mount Hood every year, many of them beginners who don't realize Mount Hood's dangers.

Cornices
The primary danger on Mount Hood is the cornices that form on the leeward side of the mountain. A cornice is an overhanging ledge of snow that forms from wind and heavy precipitation. It can cause avalanches and falling rock if the wind blows in the wrong direction. If you're climbing a mountain that has cornices, your best bet is to avoid them entirely. Mount Hood, for example, is safest to climb on the opposite side of the mountain. The route is a bit more technically challenging, but you don't have to worry as much about boulders falling on your head.

Rock Fall
When climbing Mount Hood, stick to the snow and the ice rather than trying to gain footholds on the rocks along its face. Rock fall is a significant source of injury on the mountain, mostly for inexperienced climbers who mistakenly believe that climbing on rock will be safer. Not only is this dangerous for you, but also for anyone coming up behind you.

Hypothermia
The below-freezing temperatures on Mount Hood can be excruciating, particularly if you don't think to bring a warm jacket and a pair of insulated gloves. It is also a good idea to bring a compass or other navigational tool just in case you happen to get lost.

Stranded
Inexperienced climbers are far more likely to reach a point in the climb and realize they can't go any further. About 40 people are rescued every year from the face or summit of Mount Hood because they can't go either forward or back. Don't get into this situation; take an experienced climber with you.

Most people, when they are interested in treacherous mountain climbing, head to the Rockies or to the canyons of Arizona, but few think to visit Maine. Acadia National Park, located off the coast of Maine on Mount Desert Island, is home to some of the most spectacular climbs in the entire United States.

What's unique about Acadia? The view, for one thing. Many of the most treacherous climbs involve sea cliff climbing, which means that climbers are hovering above the ocean while the scale rocky, crumbly cliffs. This is quite a head rush when you consider the dangers of falling in such an environment. Plus, a backdrop of ocean creates a strange but exciting illusion as you struggle toward the top.

The Otter Cliffs, for example, are about 60 feet tall, with routes that range in difficulty from 5.7 to 5.12, and boast a beautiful view of the water. For less experienced climbers, however, there are one-, two- and three-pitch routes in South Bubble that are perfect for TRing. South Bubble is also not as populated as the Otter Cliffs on the weekends, so you might consider that when you travel.

The danger of climbing at Acadia National Park is not necessarily the pitch or the grade of the climb, both of which can be difficult, but the threat of the tide. Visitors who fail to check the tide times upon arrival or who have no respect for the cycles of the ocean can find themselves caught on cliffs with no way to descend.

If you're going visit Acadia National Park in the summer, however, make sure to bring a pair of comfortable walking shoes for long strolls along the cliffs in the evening. The Merrell Siren Syncs are a great choice for women who enjoy walking, as these can be worn both on vacation and at home.

Acadia National Park is a great place for climbing, especially since there are so many diverse ways to get in your daily climb. Bouldering is common here and is the perfect way to warm up for longer and more difficult climbs.

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/

As the second-highest volcano in the United States, Mt. Shasta in northern California is something of a white whale for many climbers, offering a challenging climb with a beautiful summit and plenty of difficult routes. This is one of the most accommodating mountains in the U.S. because it offers technical climbs, non-technical climbs, rock climbing, ice climbing and dozens of other options.

In other words, you could climb Mt. Shasta once a week for a year and never have to take the same route twice.

Mt. Shasta is unique in that the optimal time for climbing is different depending on the route you take. Routes on the south side, for example, are best between May and July, while routes to the north are better in the later summer because falling rock isn't as big an issue.

If you'll be climbing Mt. Shasta, particularly on any of the more difficult technical routes, make sure you have crampons and an ice pick handy. Most climbers also bring flashlights, pocket knives and plenty of clothing layers. Sunglasses are advised, especially during the winter, because the glare from the snow can be dangerous.

Because there are so many different routes on Mt. Shasta, climbing with a guide is ideal. He or she can tell you which routes are appropriate for your skill level and physical condition, and you'll probably enjoy yourself more. A guide can also point out important sites from the side and summit, which makes the experience complete.

If you decide to go it alone, however, know that camping on Mt. Shasta can be brutal. High winds, freezing temperatures and rocky or barren land are all common, and you might not get much sleep. Most people choose to camp at Helen Lake, though there are other possible stops before you reach the summit.

When climbing Mt. Shasta, make sure you bring a sleeping bag that is designed specifically for extreme temperatures such as the North Face Dark Star. This bag is approved for temperatures as low as 40 degrees, which means that you'll be snug regardless of the weather on Mt. Shasta.

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

Climbing mountains and canyons during any season is a challenge, but it is particularly difficult when you add winter ice to the mix. Ice climbing has gained significant popularity in the U.S. and abroad in recent years, and Hyalite Canyon in Bozeman, MT, is one of the most challenging locations for ice climbing.

Ice climbing, for the uninitiated, is the practice of climbing, not the rocky faces of mountains and canyons, but instead scaling frozen waterfalls and other natural ice formations. These are usually up against the sides of a rock formation and present unique challenges.

When climbing at Hyalite Canyon, you'll need an ice axe to create footholds on the sheer, icy face of your obstacle. The Grivel Alp Monster is a good choice, because it features a posterior hammer, anti-clip saw and a lightweight, rubber shaft. It won't add much weight but will get the job done.

You might also need to invest in a pair of high-quality mountaineering boots with good ankle support. Make sure that you are dressed for frigid weather, including hats and gloves, to ensure the most enjoyable experience.

In Hyalite Canyon, there are a number of ice climbing routes, some of which are already equipped with ice screws and rope set-ups. Some of the more difficult routes feature very thin ice and shouldn't be attempted unless you are a professional.

Additionally, it is a good idea to check with the Hyalite Canyon authorities before you head to Montana for a climb. Some seasons, the ice formations do not appear until late winter, depending on local temperatures and rainfall. Some might not be available when you arrive due to too much climbing or because of perceived dangers created by ice climbing tools.

If you are interested in visiting Hyalite Canyon during other seasons, or if you aren't too sure about ice climbing, there are plenty of things to do in this area during the spring, summer and fall. Mountains and ridges in Bozeman, present numerous possibilities for the avid climber and some are open all year.

You might also want to hook up with an outfitter if you've decided to try ice climbing in Hyalite Canyon. Having a professional who knows the area in your corner is invaluable.

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.

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

In 1923, when asked about his desire to climb Mount Everest, George Leigh Mallory answered simply "Because it's there." Dedicated mountaineers like Mallory feel strangely drawn to certain peaks, and in the case of Eiger, you almost can hear the mountain whispering "Do you feel lucky? Well, do you, punk?" at you as you stare at it.

Made famous by the 1975 Clint Eastwood thriller "The Eiger Sanction," this mountain is located in the Bernese Oberland region of Switzerland and has a name that means "Ogre." One of the most challenging routes up Eiger is the north face, an area with such a high death toll that it rightfully earned the nickname of "Murder Wall."

When preparing to tackle Eiger, you won't need Dirty Harry's famous .44 Magnum, but with an elevation of 13,024 feet, you do need to be prepared for this one. Anyone wanting to climb up to the summit should have experience with walking on glaciers. Ice axes, crampons and mountaineering boots also are highly recommended pieces of equipment to have on hand.

Besides the infamous north face, there are several ways to reach Eiger's summit, including routes up the West Flank and the Mittellegi Ridge. You can get a good head start on your climb by taking the Jungfrau Railway, which lets you begin your ascent from a higher altitude. Alpine guides also are available to help you on the journey to Eiger and their knowledge and experience can be life saving at times.

Accommodations around Eiger range from simple huts to elegant hotels, depending on how much you want to spend. It's also possible to camp in and around Eiger before you start your climb.

Though you may not be hunting assassins like Clint Eastwood did in "The Eiger Sanction," this Swiss mountain offers plenty of challenges just by itself. A successful climb up the north face of Eiger could, in the words of Dirty Harry, really make your day.

Sources:
http://www.summitpost.org/mountain/rock/150228/eiger.html#chapter_1
http://www.askoxford.com/worldofwords/quotations/quotefrom/mallory/?view=uk
http://www.peakware.com/peaks.html?pk=71

If outdoor adventures are calling your name this season, a mountain climbing trip could be your excuse to escape the office and embrace nature at its best. Pack the right survival gear for your excursion and you'll make the most of climbing, hiking and exploring that mountain territory.

Whether you're a beginner or expert climber, mountain climbing can be a great upper and lower body workout that will challenge you to the max. Set your sights on a rock climbing trip in Chattanooga, or head to the snowy mountains in Colorado; there are hundreds of unique destinations scattered throughout the U.S, and there's nothing like a challenging physical workout to get you in tip-top shape for the season - all while taking in the mountain-fresh air. Just make sure to pack for the trip with essential survival gear, and you'll set foot on a safe and memorable adventure.

A medical kit is an absolute must-have for any outdoor adventure, and you can prepare for a mountain climbing trip with all of the essentials, wrapped up tight in these portable kits. From bandages to an emergency stash of painkillers, you'll be well prepared for any first aid emergency.

Headlamps will get you through those coves and climbs at dusk, so make sure you stock up on at least a couple of these for your all-day adventure. Headlamps with adjustable straps offer the ultimate in comfort and will help you navigate your path - especially when there isn't one paved out for you.

Nothing wraps up a day of climbing better than a hearty meal. Make sure you're prepared for your dinner in the great outdoors with a foldable stove. These lightweight, fully-functional stoves make cooking and warming up food a cinch! And, when it's time to turn down for the night, make sure you're safe and sound in a tent designed for adverse weather.

Mountain climbing without the right tent can put you at risk for an animal attack, a sleepless night in a cold-weather climate or make it hard to keep your supplies and gear well protected from the elements. Pitch a tent designed for adverse weather conditions, and make sure you follow all instructions to set it up just right.

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