What is Mountaineering?

When we hear the word “mountaineering,” many things might come to mind. Some assume this merely means climbing mountains; others think of rugged Mt. Everest explorers from days past. The truth is, mountaineering is much more than that and is still being done. While there might be little left to explore, mountaineering is one heck of a rugged, adventurous activity.

So, precisely what is mountaineering? Let’s explore!

The Definition of Mountaineering

Not to be confused with alpine climbing or rock climbing, mountaineering is an activity all its own. Alpine climbing is defined as simply climbing rocks — often free of snow — to the top of a mountain peak. And rock climbing is simply climbing a rock face with ropes and a harness — or inside a climbing gym.

However, while technically both of these activities involve mountains, mountaineering is something different entirely. Basically, the key defining difference of mountaineering is that there’s snow. And traveling on snow, glaciers and ice to reach a summit presents an entirely different world of challenges. With mountaineering comes climbers roped together, each holding an ice ax.

Can you see the difference more clearly now? Great! Now, let’s talk about the fundamentals and skills it takes to complete a mountaineering trip to a summit.

Mountaineering Basics

Mountaineering is rewarding but risky! It pays to be prepared, understanding basic winter survival skills and fundamentals like how to read a topographic map. Climbing a mountain is challenging; adding snow and ice to the equation makes it more so. Here are some of the basics you need to know before a mountaineering adventure.

Understanding the Terrain and Weather – It helps to understand the terrain and evolving weather conditions. Upon a mountain, the weather can be finicky, at best, and it’s essential to stay as warm as possible. Avalanches are a real threat, as are ice slides.

Protecting Against the Cold – You need to know how to practice self-care, protecting yourself from the cold. Learn how to dress in layers and wear the proper clothing to prevent hypothermia. You also need to know how to use crampons, or even snowshoes or cross-country skis. Carrying everything in a hard case with foam keeps gear protected from the elements.

Staying Nourished – When mountaineering, you will also need to learn how to maintain enough calories and stay hydrated, carrying enough for the days you intend to travel. Winter camping skills come in handy here. Knowing how to melt snow for water and protect stoves from wind is vital.

Finding Shelter – Creating a shelter is also vital, as is choosing an appropriate site. Knowing where to set up your four-season mountaineering tent can keep you warm in sub-zero temps at night.

Specific Mountaineering Skills

Mountaineering takes skills, especially survival skills. On your first mountain “snow school,” you and other students will learn how to self-arrest, travel with rope and do basic things like put crampons on your boots.

Self-arrest is an essential mountaineering skill where you dig your ice axe into the snow to stop sliding and gain a steady position. Practicing on a moderate slope, you can achieve the skills and confidence you need to self-arrest on a steeper slope. You will also learn how to climb as a team, securing you and other mountaineers to a long rope, as crampons grip to keep your footing secure.

Essentially, mountaineering takes teamwork to reach a summit. One of the most important skills is to be connected and in-tune with fellow party members. Speaking up for your needs and being alert to others’ needs as well can ensure everyone’s safety.

It also helps to recognize when it’s time to set up camp, melt snow for water, or cook and stop to eat to gain energy. Overall, mountaineering is a total team effort where no one is left behind.

What Makes Mountaineering Special

What is mountaineering and why is it so special? It’s different for each person. That being said, many folks choose a mountaineering adventure for the sheer thrill, while others choose it to find a deeper spiritual connection with themselves or the earth. Even the famous British mountaineer, George Laigh Mallory, simply stated he wanted to climb Mt Everest “Because it’s there,” which is enough of an answer to inspire many.

Yes, mountaineering is utterly exhausting. But when you reach the summit, it can be ultimately rewarding — a moment you will never forget. Still, make sure to carry your camera, safely in a camera backpack, to capture the shot of you and your team at the peak.