Get Ready for Climbing Trips

Our team gains about 20,000 feet of altitude for this view. Through jungles, past waterfalls, dodging hungry leeches, through villages then across glaciers, sweating and freezing and breathing fresh, but thin, air. For two weeks along the trail we make several new friends and become better friends among ourselves. At times, the going is hard, but the best things in life are that way. People don't climb mountains because they are easy.

The view is worth every step we took. Everest in the clouds over there. Lhotse and Makalu to the right. Off in the haze, Kangchenjunga. Back where we came from, Menlungtse, Gaurishanker, and too many unnamed and unclimbed peaks in Tibet to count. Compared to these giants, the mere 22,000-foot summit we stand on may seem insignificant, but to us, we are on top of the world.

Why Climb?

Few things in life are as exhilarating as standing on top of a mountain that you've worked hard to climb. Don't ask me why. It's just something you have to experience for yourself. Planning ahead and thorough preparation are a big part of this experience. There are tough choices to be made — and among the toughest are which mountain to climb and who will help me get there?

When it comes to mountains, there are just too many fine possibilities. From Mexico's volcanoes to the high peaks of the Himalayas, there are peaks for all levels of ability and ambition. Indeed, there are many peaks around the world that require very little technical climbing skills to reach the top. And for the truly hardy and adventurous, there are still countless unclimbed summits. For me, planning a climbing trip is half the fun — researching itineraries, collecting gear, dreaming of faraway places . . .

Why Take a Commercial Trip?

Nevertheless, while it is possible to organize a climbing trip on your own, it is often much more efficient and economical to sign on to a commercial trip. Simply put, outfitters make it much easier to experience the thrill that awaits you than if you tackled the trip yourself. Although I'm an experienced climber and guide, I frequently do this. Let professionals organize the logistics, buy the food, and obtain the permits. They will deal with the details, leaving you and your party free to enjoy your adventure.