Welcome to the Alpine Ascents blog—where we share stories, knowledge, and inspiration from the mountains. From expedition updates and climbing conditions to training advice, gear tips, destination highlights, and stories from our guides and climbers, this is a place to stay connected to the world of mountaineering. Whether you’re preparing for your first climb, planning your next big expedition, or simply dreaming about the mountains, we hope you’ll find useful information, new ideas, and plenty of inspiration for the adventures ahead.
The following is the second in a series of “how-to” videos on the major knots and hitches we use in the mountains. Stay tuned for more videos on knots like the figure-8, ring bend- and hitches like the Munter & Prusik! The clove hitch is a simple, essential, quickly tied, adjustable, strong alpine wunder-knot! This…
What is this “Buff®” that’s listed on all of your gear lists? Why do I need one? Do I need one? What about bandanas? The Buff® 101 First created in 1991, the Buff® is a 20 x 9.5 inch tube of stretchy fabric designed to help you cover your head, neck, and face in the…
Brendan gives us a quick introduction to the different styles of tents often used for mountaineering. From ultra-light bivy style single-wall shelters to lightweight double-wall 4-season tents, to expedition-ready double-walled dome bunkers, each style has a specifically designed use. Stay tuned for in-depth looks at each of these varieties!
We are often asked why we specifically require “Glacier Glasses” on our climbs, rather than regular sports sunglasses. The answer to this questions is best understood with a bit of background knowledge regarding the effects of a high altitude snowy environment on the solar radiation to which you are exposed. Altitude and Solar Radiation Lots…
Finding the right insulated jacket for a particular trip can be overwhelming – there are many aspects to consider, including different construction styles, weights, and fabrics. Here, we break down the fundamental properties of down insulation so that you can better navigate the options and come prepared for your next mountain adventure. Why Down Keeps…
The following is the second in a series of “how-to” videos on the major knots and hitches we use in the mountains. Stay tuned for more videos on knots like the figure-8, ring bend- and hitches like the Munter & Prusik! The Double Fisherman’s bend is a simple knot used to join two ends…
Footwear for Comfort & Efficiency In the climbing & mountaineering industry, we refer to “approach shoes” in two distinct ways: Approach Shoes (for Rock Climbers) “A ‘climber’s sneaker’ designed with stiff edges, sticky climbing rubber, and a “climbing toe”. Ideal for efficient travel in 3rd, 4th, and low 5th class rocky terrain.” Approach shoes allow…
Introduction to Prescription Vision in the Backcountry It’s important to be able to see in the mountains. For safety and for enjoyment, many of us need prescription glasses or contacts to be able to see! For good reason, newer adventurers are often nervous to take fragile glasses & contacts into the mountains. This nervousness is…
Welcome to our new, recurring series- Camp Chef! In this series of posts, we will discuss cooking in the backcountry and highlight some of our favorite recipes to use in a variety of situations. We will focus on simple, easy, and nutritious recipes that have proven delicious in the mountain environment, and offer related tips…
We periodically like to spotlight a product we really, really like- in this case, the MSR Access series of tents, reviewed & vetted in the field by our staff. The Quick Review – MSR Access 3 Tent The good: extremely light (sub-4 lbs.), extremely packable (disappears into a pack like a single-wall tent), extremely livable…
