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.

It’s not every day that you get to head off an Alpine adventure, climb a mountain and play the leading role in your next man-vs.-nature saga. Climbing can be an exhilarating experience and puts your physical abilities and survival skills to the test. Getting across the rockiest hills, trekking over icy territory and camping in inclement weather are just a few challenges of a treacherous climb. Preparing with the right gear can help you tackle the next exciting climbing adventure like a pro, but since you need to keep it light, balancing necessity and function is an absolute must.

One of the essentials for climbing is the trusty first aid kit. The kit needs to be stocked with all the basic emergency survival supplies in the event that you scrape your knee on an ice patch, be assaulted by a swarm of ants during an evening meal, or if you just need a band aid for cuts and scrapes acquired on your trek. The Adventure Medical Cuts & Bolts Kit is a handy pack that features basic medication, wound care ointments, bandage materials and even basic straps and tape to help you fix your gear.

A reliable and versatile headlamp is another essential for surviving a treacherous climb. If you’re still working your way up the mountain when the sun goes down, you’ll need some extra help to navigate your path. The Black Diamond Ion is a teeny-tiny lamp that fits conveniently on your forehead, but don’t let the size fool you. This lamp is made with two extra-bright LED bulbs and weighs under an ounce. Adjustable headlamps make it easier to use your hands for the actual climb and keep your eye on the prize – reaching the top of the mountain.

You’ll also need to pack some snacks and water to sustain your energy levels during the demanding trek. Packing food that gives you energy for the long haul may be as simple as stocking up on granola bars, trail mix and nutrition bars that are easy to eat on the go and give you a fuss-free energy boost when you need it. Just pack the necessary food items in the convenient side pocket of a climbing backpack like the Jansport Whittaker Soloist , and you’ll have easy access to the goods at any moment.

Whenever I think of climbing, my mind always drifts to beautiful mountain peaks and long trails lined with every type of wildlife imaginable. For some climbers, however, it’s all about the vertical.

At one time, El Capitan in Yosemite National Park was considered impossible to climb and for good reason. Each of the many routes to the top of El Capitan is long and treacherous, testing both the climber’s skill and his endurance. Of course, it’s also the ultimate adrenaline rush for people who enjoy looking at the world from the face of a rock.

Made of coarse granite and soaring 3,000 feet in the air, El Capitan is considered the Everest for big-wall climbing. Although I’ve seen it in person – on vacation when I was about ten – mere pictures of this monolith are sufficient to give me goose bumps.

The routes up El Capitan vary, but the most popular and most difficult is the Nose. It was first successfully climbed in 1958, and since then climbers from all over the world have aspired to reach the summit. This route usually takes two or three days to accomplish, though a few expert climbers have conquered it in just one.

A few of the routes, including the Nose, have been free climbed, but aids are definitely recommended. Unless you have significant experience (and a need for danger), ropes should accompany your expedition in Yosemite. A few climbers who thrive on challenges have raced up the Nose and other routes on El Capitan, but this is also not for an amateur.

In order to climb El Capitan, you’ll access it from a trail in Yosemite. I recommend bringing along a light-weight and roomy pack, such as C.A.M.P. Rox , a 40-liter duffel with plenty of space.

I would also recommend becoming proficient at a few smaller big-wall climbs before attempting El Capitan. It might be exciting and adventurous, but it has also been the cause of many injuries over the years. If you have any qualms at all, go with an experienced guide who can “show you the ropes,” as they say.

Mountain climbing isn’t always as treacherous in the United States as it is overseas, but there is always the exception to the rule. Take, for instance, Mt. McKinley, which is located in Denali National Park in Alaska. McKinley is the highest peak in all of North America, and despite its unmistakable beauty, this mountain is one of the most dangerous climbs you could ever attempt.

The main issue with Mt. McKinley, of course, is the temperature. You expect freezing weather in Alaska, but the summits of this particular mountain go beyond mere frigidity. Temperatures of -50 degrees C are not unheard of, and the lowest recorded temperatures are far below that. In order to fair well on Mt. McKinley, you’ll need to dress with the intention of keeping all your fingers and toes intact.

In addition to a heavy thermal coat, long underwear, a hat that protects your ears and thermal pants, you’ll also want to protect your feet. This is probably the downfall of most climbers who attempt to ascend and wind up in a hospital.

The EuroSock Ascent Wool is a good choice because it provides warmth, ankle support and moisture management, while increasing circulation. Socks intended for skiing, snow-boarding and mountain-climbing are usually your best bet.

It is also important to remember that, when conquering America’s highest peak, you have to deal with the nasty side effects of such high altitude. Altitude sickness is more common than you might imagine on Mt. McKinley, because climbers underestimate the need to prepare.

Before you leave, make sure you are able to tolerate the loss of oxygen and moisture in the air. On your hike, watch for signs of altitude sickness in both yourself and the people around you; if someone seems to be falling ill, an immediate descent is necessary. No one needs to die just because you want to be able to say you climbed Mt. McKinley.

Of course, the main summit of Mt. McKinley provides one of the most beautiful views in the world, and you’ll have an opportunity to see enormous glaciers up close. Just be aware that preparation is needed to climb this particular mountain, so make plans before you start packing your gear.

Mention Australia to the average person and they probably will think of three things: kangaroos, koalas and Michael J. “Crocodile” Dundee, the rugged outdoorsman played by comedian Paul Hogan in a popular series of films. The Dundee character, who lived in Australia’s Northern Territory, earned his nickname after allegedly surviving a crocodile attack.

For climbers, the Northern Territory offers something more enticing than a wisecracking crocodile fighter, namely the destination called Mount Uluru. Also known as Ayers Rock, this mountain attracts thousands of visitors each year, many of whom are bound and determined to climb to the top of this unique formation.

Located in Uluru, Kata Tjuta National Park, Ayers Rock is just 986 feet, but the climb to the top is fairly steep, even for a veteran climber. Though it looks like an easy mountain to tackle from the ground, some people have died from heart failure during the climb.

Besides the physical challenges, there are other roadblocks that could interfere with your plans to visit Mount Uluru. The Anangu people are the owners and guardians of this rock formation, and they consider it sacred. They have posted signs asking tourists to please keep off the mountain.

Despite the expressed wishes of the Anangu, there are no laws preventing you from climbing Ayers Rock. It’s not uncommon to see enthusiasts heading up Uluru, but the decision to climb is up to you and your conscience.

If Ayers Rock is too strong for you to resist, make sure to invest in a good pair of climbing shoes, such as Boreal Ace . With a pair of Aces on your feet, you should be able to reach the top and get a bird’s-eye view of the Northern Territory.

Australia is a land of natural wonders, not the least of which is the beautiful Mount Uluru. You may not see Paul Hogan tossing another “shrimp on the Barbie,” but for those who take their chances on Ayers Rock, the experience can be memorable.

Sources:

http://www.outback-australia-travel-secrets.com/climbing-ayers-rock-ulur...
http://www.environment.gov.au/parks/uluru/

Although there are plenty of mountains to climb in the United States, experienced and adventurous climbers might prefer to leave the U.S. behind in favor of foreign conquests. One of the most treacherous obstacles is the Eiger, which is located in the Swiss Alps and has claimed 60 lives since 1935.

Eiger’s most difficult challenge lies in the Nordwand, or the north face, of the mountain, which is also the most popular goal for modern climbers. Although it isn’t as technically complicated as many of the other Alpine faces, a considerable amount of yearly rock fall and ice makes it dangerous.

In fact, the Nordwand is often called the Mordwand by locals, which translates as “murder wall.” This certainly isn’t the climb for beginners seeking experience.

Because the number of deaths due to climbing and rock fall has increased significantly in the last couple of decades, climbing Eiger isn’t always the brightest idea. You should have significant climbing experience before attempting this type of climb, and you should be capable of carrying sufficient equipment to get out of a tight situation.

It is also important to note that most people prefer to climb Eiger during the winter months, because a hardened shell of ice decreases the chances of injury by rock fall. The elevation and the general climate of this area are treacherous in itself, so you’ll need to be prepared for winter emergencies. Your first aid kit should include everything from matches to moleskin to EMT sheers, just in case something goes wrong.

Before you decide to climb Eiger, make sure that you’ve chosen the most ideal weather conditions for your trek, preferably a high-pressure system with little chance for precipitation. If you don’t live in the area, you can use the Internet for research, or you can contact a local outfitter to keep you posted.

Eiger is certainly one of the most exciting climbs in the world, despite the fact that there are numerous peaks far more technically difficult. If you attempt this climb, it is always best to do so with someone more experienced than yourself.

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