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

When you're bored with the usual hiking trails and cross country treks, maybe it's time to hit the mountains! Mountain climbing is a great way to explore the great outdoors, breathe in the fresh mountain air and see life from a new perspective - literally. Still, the only way you'll reach the top is with the right survival gear, and selecting the right mountain climbing boots is an essential step in the right direction.

Mountain climbing boots are usually designed with Thinsulate materials, Gore-Tex and durable rubber to keep your feet well-protected on a rigorous route. Finding the right fit and making sure you pick the right type of shoes will keep you trekking on without stress, and also reduce your risk of injury.

If you're ready to freshen up your outdoor sports agenda and find yourself heading to the mountains, be sure to follow these tips when selecting a pair of mountain climbing boots:

The Heavier the Better

Heavy boots are ideal for mountaineering activities because they help balance out your weight and keep you grounded en route. Look for heavy materials that combine steel, rubber and heavy plastics so you can carry some extra weight in your lower body and maintain balance on even the steepest slopes.

Go For the High-Cut Style

High cut boots provide extra ankle and lower leg support, and can also withstand colder temperatures if you're heading to a snowy mountaintop. Look for styles that provide extra cushioning in the heel and back of the ankles, but make sure you can flex your ankles slightly as you bend, squat or stoop in these boots.

Stick with Waterproof Lining

Waterproof lining means you don't have to worry about snow, rain or sleet as you hike and climb your way to the top of the mountain. Waterproof lining such as Gore-Tex can prevent water from soaking into your socks and also help your feet 'breathe' as they sit snugly in those boots. Waterproof lining can be found in the toe area of most quality mountain climbing boots.

Opt for Full-Grain Leather

Full-grain leather (vs. split-grain leather) is best for more rugged routes, and can withstand extreme temperatures and ward off moisture. Full-grain leather styles are tough; make sure you've given yourself time to 'break in' to these types of mountain climbing boots so you can practice your balancing act on even the toughest trails.

Look for Hidden Support

If you're planning on conquering a multi-route trail that involves mountain climbing, hiking and cross country trekking, you may need some extra support to stabilize the ankles and feet, and prevent shock injuries as you engage in different types of movements. Mountain climbing boots made with steel inserts and flexible plates can provide extra support when you're tackling different types of terrain.

The style and cut of quality mountain climbing boots do take time to get used to, so it's best to practice different stances and maneuvers before you head off on your route. Mountain climbing boots need to be durable, but also provide comfort and protection on those challenging trails. Make use of these tips when you're looking for your ideal pair and enjoy the rough terrain on your mountain climbing venture!

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/

When you're bored with the usual hiking trails and cross country treks, maybe it's time to hit the mountains! Mountain climbing is a great way to explore the great outdoors, breathe in the fresh mountain air and see life from a new perspective - literally. Still, the only way you'll reach the top is with the right survival gear, and selecting the right mountain climbing boots is an essential step in the right direction.

Mountain climbing boots are usually designed with Thinsulate materials, Gore-Tex and durable rubber to keep your feet well-protected on a rigorous route. Finding the right fit and making sure you pick the right type of shoes will keep you trekking on without stress, and also reduce your risk of injury.

If you're ready to freshen up your outdoor sports agenda and find yourself heading to the mountains, be sure to follow these tips when selecting a pair of mountain climbing boots:

The Heavier the Better

Heavy boots are ideal for mountaineering activities because they help balance out your weight and keep you grounded en route. Look for heavy materials that combine steel, rubber and heavy plastics so you can carry some extra weight in your lower body and maintain balance on even the steepest slopes.

Go For the High-Cut Style

High cut boots provide extra ankle and lower leg support, and can also withstand colder temperatures if you're heading to a snowy mountaintop. Look for styles that provide extra cushioning in the heel and back of the ankles, but make sure you can flex your ankles slightly as you bend, squat or stoop in these boots.

Stick with Waterproof Lining
Waterproof liningmeans you don't have to worry about snow, rain or sleet as you hike and climb your way to the top of the mountain. Waterproof lining such as Gore-Tex can prevent water from soaking into your socks and also help your feet 'breathe' as they sit snugly in those boots. Waterproof lining can be found in the toe area of most quality mountain climbing boots.

Opt for Full-Grain Leather

Full-grain leather(vs. split-grain leather) is best for more rugged routes, and can withstand extreme temperatures and ward off moisture. Full-grain leather styles are tough; make sure you've given yourself time to 'break in' to these types of mountain climbing boots so you can practice your balancing act on even the toughest trails.

Look for Hidden Support

If you're planning on conquering a multi-route trail that involves mountain climbing, hiking and cross country trekking, you may need some extra support to stabilize the ankles and feet, and prevent shock injuries as you engage in different types of movements. Mountain climbing boots made with steel inserts and flexible plates can provide extra support when you're tackling different types of terrain.

The style and cut of quality mountain climbing boots do take time to get used to, so it's best to practice different stances and maneuvers before you head off on your route. Mountain climbing boots need to be durable, but also provide comfort and protection on those challenging trails. Make use of these tips when you're looking for your ideal pair and enjoy the rough terrain on your mountain climbing venture!

Though both deadly and beautiful, Nanga Parbat attracts climbers every year.

Some of the most beautiful mountains in the world have proven to be the most dangerous, even for the most experienced of climbers. Nanga Parbat, the 9th highest mountain in the world, is a breathtaking and majestic destination that definitely has earned the nickname of "The Killer Mountain."

Located in Pakistan in the Himalaya Mountain Range, Nanga Parbat reaches a height of 26,658 feet (8,125 meters) and its name translates as "Naked Mountain" because of the lack of vegetation and snow on some of the steeper slopes.

The Killer Mountain claimed the lives of numerous adventurers until its streak was first broken in 1953. In that year, Hermann Buhl, as part of a German-Austrian expedition, made it to the summit after many of his fellow climbers found the mountain too challenging.

Buhl had tackled Nanga Parbat from the north, ascending what is referred to as the Rakhiot Flank. In 1970, world famous climber Reinhold Messner and his brother Gunther ascended to the summit from the Rupal Face, but Gunther lost his life in an avalanche during the descent. Gunther Messner's remains were later recovered by another expedition in 2005, but the disappearance of Messner's younger brother led to some rather nasty accusations, which haunted the mountain climbing for decades after his initial success on Nanga Parbat.

Because it is one of 14 mountains in the world that tops 8,000 meters, Nanga Parbat continues to attract high altitude adventurers, even with its killer reputation. Despite the high cost of food and transportation these days, climbing Nanga Parbat actually is less expensive than ever before. In 2007, as part of the "Year of Tourism," the Pakistan government sliced the climbing royalties in half. You also don't need a trekking permit, but a visa is required to enter the country.

As is the case with any mountain as high as Nanga Parbat, climbers do need to take special precautions when mounting an expedition. The ideal time to make the attempt is between the months of June and September; the winters atop Nanga Parbat can be extremely harsh and treacherous.

In addition to extreme cold and illness, one of the leading causes of death above 7,000 feet is hypoxia, or oxygen starvation. Though Buhl made his solo ascent without supplemental oxygen, most climbers should bring extra bottles and tanks with them. Taking the time to acclimate your body to the high altitude also can greatly increase your chances of survival in the extremely thin air.

Though many have successfully reached the summit, Nanga Parbat's Mazeno Ridge has proven to be the most difficult route to tackle. If your determination is high and failure is not an option, Mazeno Ridge may be your next climbing destination.

Sources:
http://www.peakware.com/peaks.html http://www.summitpost.org/mountain/rock/150276/nanga-parbat.html#chapter_4 http://www.tourism.gov.pk/destinations.html
http://www.nationalgeographic.com/adventure/0405/excerpt2.html http://www.monterosa-nepal.com/pakistan/nanga-parbat-expedition.htm http://www.summitpost.org/mountain/rock/150276/nanga-parbat.html