"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.

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.

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.

There's something inherently honest about a mountain climb, where everything comes down to a battle between your skills and the elements. On the most dangerous peaks, a climber may come home with a great story or they may not come home at all.

That same brutal honesty applies to Granite Mountain, which is the highest point in the state of Montana. A part of the Beartooth Range in the Rockies, this climbing destination contains an area that's named, appropriately enough, Froze-to-Death Plateau.

Rising approximately 12,799 feet into the air, Granite Mountain literally scrapes the ceiling of Montana and is one the most beautiful, yet potentially deadly climbs in America. Some climbing enthusiasts have made the 20-plus-mile roundtrip to the top in a day, but most climbers favor a two-day summit and campout overnight.

Living up to its name, Froze-to-Death Plateau is kind of like the infamous Bermuda Triangle in some ways. Montana's Forestry Service warns climbers that late afternoon storms are pretty common in this area of Granite Mountain, and there's always a chance of snow 12 months out of the year.

The biggest problem with Froze-to-Death Plateau is getting your bearings. The natural rock formations can be deceptive, so make sure you pack a compass and a couple of copies of the United States Geological Survey's Quadrangle Map of Granite Peak. To make sure you actually don't freeze to death, invest in a handheld GPS system like the Oregon 200 by Garmin (it can be a lifesaver when visibility is poor).

Suffice it to say, Granite Mountain is a climb that's suitable only for those who are at the top of their game, both physically and mentally. The Montana Forestry Service requires all climbers to check in at the Beartooth Ranger Station, but they also make no guarantees about evacuating climbers in bad weather.

With the very real chance of hypothermia on Froze-to-Death Plateau, Granite Mountain is one peak that you should never take for granted.

Sources:
http://www.jhmg.com/climbs/beartooth/index.php
http://www.summitpost.org/mountain/rock/150239/granite-peak.html
http://www.fs.fed.us/r1/custer/recreation/granitepeak.shtml

Some of the most treacherous climbs in the United States involve not only steep grades and technical difficulties but also serious climbs that require significant endurance to cross. Granite Peak in the Rockies' Beartooth Range of Montana is one such example, providing not only an advanced-level climb, but also quite a trek before you can start slinging ropes.

There are only two approaches to Granite Peak, both of which entail arduous trails followed by a stint across what is known as Froze-To-Death Plateau. This, in addition to the climb itself, is the main reason why most people who climb Granite Peak make it an overnighter. Although it is possible to make it in a day, the strain on the human body is enormous.

If you're going to be climbing Granite Peak, it is important that you are objective about your abilities. Novice climbers will quickly discover that Granite is not your average climb, and only advanced mountaineers should even consider it. Not only is the climb itself technical and challenging, but rock fall and frigid temperatures make this a climb for the dedicated outdoorsman.

Most people who climb Granite Peak camp out near Avalanche Lake, which falls a little bit short of your average Hilton Hotel. The valley in which campers choose to set up their tents and sleeping bags is littered with rocks and boulders, making comfort almost impossible.

It doesn't cost anything to climb Granite Peak, but you will need to pay for a permit if you want to cut trees for firewood. You should also obtain a Granite Peak quadrangle map, which will help you navigate your way up the mountain and through the trails. If you have any reservations about your ability to navigate, a better idea is to climb with a guide.

Climbers who attempt Granite Peak will need a comfortable pair of insulated hiking boots, as well as rope, a flashlight, a rappel device and slings. The best time to hike is between July and August, as other times of year are far too cold and the snowfall too deep for climbing conditions.

This mountain goes by many names but is one of the most difficult climbs in the world, and certainly one of the most treacherous in the western hemisphere. Officially, they call it Cerro Chalten, but it is more commonly known as Mount Fitz Roy. It soars to a formidable 6,401 feet, made almost entirely of granite, and Mount Fitz Roy was once a very active volcano.

The most treacherous aspect of Mount Fitz Roy is its sheer granite face, which presents significant problems for inexperienced climbers and experts alike. Finding the appropriate route to the summit can be difficult, particularly when ascending the east side. Although rock fall isn't as common on Mount Fitz Roy as other peaks in the Los Glaciares park, many people have been severely injured from falls without the right safety equipment.

Mount Fitz Roy is located directly on the Argentina-Chile border in Patagonia. The area was largely undeveloped until recent years, presenting difficulties actually getting to the base of the mountain - never mind climbing it. Now, however, several hundred people visit Mount Fitz Roy every year to climb it, and the trail heads are far more defined.

The weather is also a problem when trying to climb Mount Fitz Roy. Its official name translates as "smoking mountain," because the peak is constantly surrounded by a dense layer of clouds. Fog roils throughout the area, obscuring vision and making the climb even more difficult, and this area also sees a fair amount of rain each year.

If you're going to climb Mount Fitz Roy, make sure you pay careful attention to the weather forecast, as climbing in the rain is never a pleasant experience. You should also make sure to bring a pair of goggles with you just in case and plenty of ropes for each climber.

If you prefer not to climb Mount Fitz Roy, you can take the easier route and trek around the base of the mountain. A pair of quality hiking boots, such as the Cliff Walkers from Propet, is all you'll need for this type of hiking.

There's nothing like a terrifying statistic to get your blood pumping for your next mountain climbing adventure. The Annapurna peaks, of which there are six, have the single highest mortality rate among all the 8,000-meter mountains in the world. Most of the deaths and serious accidents occur on Annapurna I and Annapurna II.

If you are increasing your skills in mountain climbing and developing a healthy confidence, it might be time to branch out to new areas of the world, such as central Nepal. The Himalayas provide numerous exciting mountains to conquer, from the Annapurna peaks to the elusive K2.

If you don't think you are ready for the Annapurna peaks, you can start with Annapurna South, which is only 7,219 meters high. This peak is far less rocky than the others, and there are several routes that will accommodate an amateur climber. However, you do have to worry about extreme temperatures and rock fall regardless of which of these peaks you choose to summit.

When you are climbing any of the Annapurna peaks, you'll want to start in the Annapurna Sanctuary, which is the glacial basin that sits in the middle of all the mountains. Once considered a sacred land to natives, this area is now highly revered by locals and visitors alike and is home to a vibrant range of ecosystems that any nature lover will appreciate.

For your visit to the Annapurna peaks, make sure you bring along a pair of sturdy hiking boots and a warm sleeping bag for camping. Trekking through the mountains might constitute a day trip, but all mountain climbing will require at least one over nighter.

You should also know that climbing in the Annapurna peaks is highly regulated by the Nepal government. You'll need an entry visa, as well as trekking or climbing permits if this is your destination, so make sure you have everything you need in advance. This is why many mountain climbers hire guides who will cut through all the red tape for them.

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.

The problem with most mountain climbing in the United States is the crowds. As soon as people realize that a particular summit presents a challenge, the traffic to and from that peak is formidable. For many mountain climbers, it is the peace and seclusion as much as the challenge that draws them out of doors.
The trick, therefore, is to find mountain summits that provide privacy as well as technical difficulty. Old Mike Peak in Taos County, New Mexico, is one such destination. As part of the enchanted circle, it provides a stunning view and more than a few rough spots, but most of the traffic is headed to Wheeler Peak.

Old Mike Peak reaches 13,113 feet in elevation, and although it doesn't make the nation's shortlist of highest peaks, it is one of the most breathtaking. There are two major ascents from the base - one from the horseshoe lake trail and one from the Taos ski valley - both of which present challenges on the climb.

If you want to really get your feet wet on a U.S. climb, you should know that you can summit Old Mike Peak in the winter. Many winter sports enthusiasts climb Old Mike Peak with nothing but their snowshoes and an ice pick, trudging through deep ditches and over rocky ledges to the summit. This is not recommended, however, unless you have snowshoe experience.

Most people make Old Mike Peak a two-day hike, as there are plenty of opportunities for camping. The laws of the Wheeler Wilderness prohibit camping within 300 feet of water, but other than that there are plenty of paces to pitch a tent. One of the most beautiful is the meadow near the Horseshoe Trail opening, but there are also wide portions near the summit where camping is popular.

If you'll be climbing Old Mike Peak in the winter, make sure to bring an ice ax for the trip. The ice is thickest and most treacherous during January and February, but you should bring an ax as long as there is snow on the ground.

Every mountain climber loves a challenge, but the real payoff is when you reach the summit of a mountain and are rewarded with a gorgeous view. Although Wheeler Peak in New Mexico is not the most challenging mountain to climb, the view from the summit is well worth your day of climbing.

Part of the Sangre de Cristo Range, Wheeler Peak is the highest mountain in New Mexico and is climbed every day by excited visitors. This peak is particularly unique because the tree line extends above 12,500 feet, which is a rarity even in the southern United States.

Wheeler Peak is also one of the highest mountains in the U.S. to constitute a day hike. Most climbers reach the summit in fewer than five hours and make it down well before nightfall. This means that you can take a vacation to New Mexico and fit several climbs in during your trip rather than having to come back to try a new route or peak.

The dangerous part of climbing Wheeler Peak is the almost universal chance for rainfall. Many climbers get halfway up the mountain only to see thunderheads forming above, necessitating a descent before reaching the summit. Others climb regardless of the rain, but this is never a good idea if thunder or lightening is detected.

Since Wheeler Peak isn't a technical climb, it is possible to make a light trek to the summit. A small backpack is necessary to carry things like food, water and rope, but you won't need to haul any heavy gear.

Remember that it might be quite warm in the valley before you climb Wheeler Peak, but the temperature will likely drop several degrees by the time you reach the summit. A parka in your backpack, such as the Spiewak Yeager Jacket, will make the cold more tolerable.

And if you are looking for the most demanding route up Wheeler Peak, try the path that goes through Williams Lake. This isn't quite as beautiful as other routes, but will require more technical skill for advanced climbers.

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.

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

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.

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.