There’s a lot of strategy involved in choosing your next mountain adventure. That’s true regardless if you’ve been scrambling for years of if you just bought your first pair of trail runners.
So, let's talk about picking your next mountain adventure. Start by envisioning your long-term goals as an adventurer. Do you dream of climbing the Seven Summits? Or maybe you want to gain confidence climbing with your friends closer to home? Do you want to lead 5.9? Set those goals and work backward to determine the steps and adventures you need to take to achieve them.
If your goal is to climb Denali and you’ve just stood on the summit of Mt. Rainier, plan some longer expedition-style climbs on mountains like Kilimanjaro or the volcanoes in Ecuador or Mexico. On your first expedition, you will learn a lot about what’s it’s like live on a mountain for weeks with a diverse team. Your body will also endure the demands of climbing day after day. You will also experience the stress of strategizing about mountain conditions and weather. As you plan for Denali, you’ll also want to climb in challenging weather conditions and, if you can, practice pulling a sled or tire. These experiences allow you to test your body's reaction to altitude, acclimatize, and adapt to the rigors of multi-day expeditions. Remember, these mountains are not only an opportunity for physical growth but also a chance to embrace the little things, like not showering for 15 days straight!
As you build your skill and confidence in the mountains, it's also essential to align yourself with like-minded individuals or organizations that can guide you on your journey. Look for reputable climbing organizations or join national programs focused on mountain education. Building a supportive network of friends and mentors who can share their experiences and help you grow is invaluable.
When it comes to training for your mountain adventure, I can't stress enough the importance of building a solid cardiovascular base. Whether you're running an ultra-marathon or climbing Denali, you need to think of yourself as an endurance athlete. This means dedicating months to low to moderate intensity, high volume cardio workouts. It may not be glamorous, but it's the only way to build that essential reservoir of cardiovascular ability.
Remember that your journey to the top of your dream mountain begins with an idea and the desire to challenge yourself beyond your current boundaries. Set your goals, find your tribe, and train hard. Whether you're starting with a local peak or aiming for the highest summits, always remember to embrace the challenges and cherish the experiences along the way. The mountains are waiting for you, so go out there and experience them with all your might! Happy climbing!