Epic Mountaineering Expeditions Around The World
For some mountain climbers, simply reaching the summit is not enough – they seek out the most epic mountain expeditions in the world. These daredevils and thrill seekers crave the excitement and views of some of the world’s most unforgettable peaks. Though difficult, epic mountaineering can be possible for all levels of climber, though the most extreme expeditions require a great deal of physical and mental stamina. To help sort through all the expedition possibilities, here is a list of the most epic mountaineering expeditions around the world.
The Seven Summits
The Seven Summits is a mountaineering challenge that involves summiting the highest mountain peak on each of the seven continents. Though many regard the challenge as impossible, over 200 people have reportedly conquered the peaks in their entirety or individually. The highest peak on each continent, in order, are as follows: Mount Kilimanjaro in Africa, Aconcagua in South America, Mount Elbrus in Europe, Mount Denali in North America, Mount Vinson in Antarctica, Mount Everest in Asia and Carstensz Pyramid in Oceania.
The legendary Mount Everest
Towering at 8,848 metres (29,029 feet), Mount Everest is one of the most iconic climbing peaks in the world – and one of the most extreme mountaineering expeditions one can take. Reaching the summit of this giant mountain, located on the border of Tibet and Nepal, is a major accomplishment that involves extreme altitudes and harsh weather conditions. According to the Mount Everest Foundation website, the peak is only best ascended during peak seasons in April, May and October.
Aconcagua
Located in the Andes mountain range in Argentina, Aconcagua is the highest mountain in the Western and Southern Hemispheres, rising to 6,962 metres (22,830 feet). The mountain is popular among experienced climbers due to its beautifully structured slopes and the challenges it poses.
The Volcanic Seven Summits
The volcanic seven summits contain the highest volcanic peaks on each continent. As most of these mountains can be described as “elevated islands,” the challenge is considered even more difficult than the regular Seven Summits as some of these mountains are typically difficult to access without the help of a commercial mountaineering tour. The volcanoes include: Mount Sidley in Antarctica, Mount Giluwe in Australia, Mount Pico de Orizaba in North America, Mount Chimborazo in South America, Mount Damavand in Asia, Mount Elbrus in Europe and Mount Kilimanjaro in Africa.
Mount Kosciusko
Mount Kosciusko is the highest peak on the Australian continent, standing at 2,228 metres (7,310 feet). Located within the Snowy Mountains of New South Wales and Victoria, the mountain is said to have stunning views, and can be a great mountaineering trip for those looking for adventure but don’t have the extreme hiking experience.
Denali
Formerly known as Mount McKinley, Denali is the highest peak in North America, standing at a whopping 6,190 metres (20,308 feet). Located in the central section of Alaska’s interior region, Denali is a great choice for those yearning for extreme adventure. Just be aware that permafrost, alpine glaciers and glacial ice caps can make It challenging to climb.
Cho Oyu
Nestled in the Himalayan mountain range, Cho Oyu is the sixth highest peak in the world at 8,188 metres (26,860 feet). A relatively easy climb compared to the mammoth mount Everest, this expedition is certainly doable for any intermediate mountaineer.
Mount Elbrus
Mount Elbrus is the highest peak of the Caucasus Mountains at 5,633 metres (18,481 feet). Located on the Russian-Georgian border, the peak is known for its epic summit. One of the easier Summits to ascend, it’s a great option for those climbers looking for an adventure but with fewer physical challenges.
Mount Blanc
Located at the boarder of France and Italy, Mount Blanc is the highest peak in Western Europe at 4,810 metres (15,780 feet). Experienced hikers looking for a challenge and epic summit views should take an upward journey to this summit.
The Carstensz Pyramid
Sitting in Papua, Indonesia, the Carstensz Pyramid is the highest peak in the Australasia area at 4,884 metres (16,023 feet). High villages, tropical forests and highlands provide spectacular views alongside a challenging climb.
Tengkampoche
Also known as Cho Oyu II, this peak is the second highest summit in the world, standing at 8,150 metres (26,744 feet). Located on the border of Nepal and Tibet, this mountain provides a bewitching backdrop for mountaineers and thrill seekers.
Mount Logan
Mount Logan is the highest mountain peak in Canada and the second highest peak in North America at 5,959 metres (19,551 feet). The mountain is reportedly covered with snow most of the time, giving epic snow-capped vistas to its climbers.
The Mountaineering Gear Required
When embarking on any of these epic mountaineering expeditions, be sure to bring the proper gear to handle the extreme conditions. As a minimum, every climber should bring:
• Ice Climbing Gear – this includes an ice axe, crampons, rope and helmets
• Warm clothing like thick weatherproof jackets, raincoats, and thermal underwear
• Mountaineering boots that are insulated and waterproof
• An avalanche beacon to detect any signs of buried avalanche victims
• Gloves, hiking pants, and sunscreen
• Backpacks to store all necessary supplies
• Portable stove to prepare food on the go
• GPS and radio communication devices
• Avalanche shovel, multipurpose tool and snow shovel
• Rope, carabiners and other climbing equipment
Mountaineering and climbing mountains of any kind is an exciting experience, but taking on an extreme expedition can be both a physically and mentally strenuous undertaking. To make sure you’re well-equipped and prepared for any of these epic mountaineering expeditions, take the necessary safety and precautionary steps and make sure your mountaineering gear list is comprehensive. With the right planning and training, you can make it to the summit of any of these majestic peaks and find yourself in the clouds!
