Eagle Mountain is one of the most elusive highpoint peaks in the United States, not because it is the hardest to climb or because it is concealed by some sort of mystical camouflage spell either. Rather, Eagle Mountain in Minnesota is difficult to summit because most people think they've hit the top before they actually arrive.

Eagle Mountain is one of those peaks where the summit plateau tricks your eyes. The actual summit isn't reached until you find the plaque, so climbing this mountain can sometimes seem like a particularly cruel scavenger hunt. Not only that, but the journey to the Eagle Mountain trail head brings you across the path of several bogs, a type wetland that usually has a starring role in horror movies rather than in picturesque mountain villages. Fortunately, wooden bridges help prospective climbers pass the bogs to get to the good part.

Although Eagle Mountain reaches an elevation of only 2,301 feet, the actual climb is little over three miles, most of which is forested. Unlike many other mountain peaks, however, the most difficult part of the climb is in the first 1,000 feet, where woods and rocks can impede your journey. If you'd like to camp out at Eagle Mountain, you'll find a perfectly serviceable campsite at the neighboring Whale Lake, which is not, despite popular misconception, shaped like a whale. You'll also need to register at the trail head before you start your climb, so make sure to bring proper identification.

Eagle Mountain is also one of those peaks that can be summitted all year round. Snow makes the going difficult in the dead of winter, but a pair of hardy snow boots will get the job done. Regardless of the time of year, you'll want a warm, flexible jacket, especially if your climb will extend into the evening.

Eagle Mountain is lots of fun and a great way to get in shape for more dangerous hikes. In fact, the local climbing enthusiasts often summit this mountain every week before they head out in search of bigger challenges.

When Mother Nature does something big, she does it up right, as is the case with Annapurna. Rising 8,091 meters (26,545 feet) into the air, this gorgeous mountain has a name that translates as "Goddess of the Harvests" or "The Provider." Like other climbing destinations, though, the natural beauty masks some real dangers. Located in Central Nepal, Annapurna has several peaks, the most well-known being Annapurna I and Annapurna II. Attempting to climb either peak would provide enough of a challenge for one lifetime. Suffice it to say, this is not a casual Sunday afternoon climb with your friends but a full-fledged expedition.

If you want to tackle the tenth highest mountain in the world, good physical conditioning is a requirement, not an option. Summitpost.org reported that in fall 1999, 120 expeditions attempted to summit Annapurna, but 54 of the climbers in those groups did not make it back.With any mountain that exceeds 8,000 meters, the combined threat of altitude sickness and hypothermia can become a painful reality. Peakware.com recommends planning an expedition for either April or May.

When packing up the tents, foodstuffs, boots and crampons, don't neglect your eyes when going for the summit of Annapurna. To give yourself a clear, clean field of vision, snow goggles such as the Spy Optic's Soldier are an excellent addition to your gear. The Soldier helps prevent fogging and provides 100 percent protection from UV radiation.

When planning any type of expedition in the Nepal region, all good things come from Kathmandu, the capital city. Experienced climbers who have tackled Annapurna have found plenty of tour guides and other help in this Nepalese city.

Back in the 1970's, Bob Seger sang, "That's why I'm going to Katmandu. Up to the mountains where I'm going to." If you want to be like Bob, head to Annapurna I or II, but make sure you are truly ready for what "The Provider" has to offer.

Sources:
http://www.peakware.com/peaks.html?pk=13
http://www.yetizone.com/
http://www.summitpost.org/mountain/rock/150258/annapurna-i.html

The New River Gorge in West Virginia isn't just a scenic river with miles of beautiful vistas and excellent white water rafting. It is also one of the most interesting and diverse places to climb in the United States. Officially designated as the New River Gorge National River, this area encompasses 63,000 acres and offers more than 1,400 available routes to climbers.

Unlike many other assemblages of climbs in the world, New River Gorge is almost exclusively catered toward expert climbers, with most of the cliffs in the 5.10 to 5.12 range. In other words, the amateur and timid need not apply. Most of the cliffs in the New River Gorge are constructed entirely of rigid sandstone; crack and face routes abound throughout the region. The sheer faces of the cliffs combined with the obstacles to climbers make this a formidable opponent indeed.

You must have a permit to use motorized drills in the New River Gorge National River area, and you'll need to purchase a guidebook on your way in so you can find the most appropriate climbs. There are also guide services operating in the area, and this is often the best route for newcomers to the region. The climbing season extends from April through November, though your best bet is to visit New River Gorge between May and June or during the month of September. The weather is best during these months and you won't have to deal with the same volume of traffic.

You'll want to bring a couple of dry bags just in case, as the New Gorge River area has a carry-in, carry-out policy, and rain is not uncommon among the cliffs. Make sure you have plenty of sunscreen if you're climbing during the summer months and don't attempt a climb that scares you.

For those who aren't necessarily confident climbers, there are other activities in the New River Gorge area. From white water rafting to fishing to hiking and cycling, there are numerous ways to spend a few days without ever approaching boredom.