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10 Astounding Mountain Peaks for Amateur Climbers

posted in: World  |  posted by: Jennifer Gregory on September 16, 2009  |  3 Comments

Just because you’re new to mountain climbing doesn’t mean you should have to limit yourself to local hikes up small hills. There are beautiful mountain peaks around the world, many of which have trails easy enough for new climbers to enjoy. Why not try a few of these on for size as you learn the ropes of climbing?

10. Mont Blanc – Italian and French Alps

Tour du Mont-Blanc - Day 6 - Col de la Seigne (Alt. 2516 m] - Mont-Blanc in Background

Standing 12,000 feet high, the summit at Mont Blanc is one of the most popular peaks in Western Europe. Set between the Aosta Valley in Italy and Haute-Savoie in France, the two countries have a peaceful dispute over who actually can claim rights to the peaks. Regardless, the mountain is a safe climb for even amateur climbers. You should be in good

9. Mount Uluru – Australia

uluru from the air, i still prefer mount connor

Mount Uluru, aka Ayers Rock, is located in Australia and is situated on ground that has been deemed a World Heritage Site. The climb to the top of this 1,100 foot mountain is relatively short but can only be achieved if you follow the mountain’s carefully laid out hiking trails.

8. Mount Kailash – Tibet

Mount Kailash, Most Sacrad

In Tibet you’ll find the gorgeous Mount Kailash. Mount Kailash is considered, according to Tibetan Buddhist mythology, to be a sacred mountain. As such, it receives more visitors from Buddhist pilgrims and monks than from anyone else. Legendary tales claim that Buddha visited Mount Kailash not long after he was enlightened.

7. Kala Pattar – Nepal

Prayer flags on Kala Pattar -

From the top of this 23,000 foot summit climbers will have an astounding view of Mount Everest – the closest some climbers will ever get to that astounding peak. The climb is as “non-technical” as you’re going to get. Set in the center of a circle made by Mounts Everest, Lhotse, Pumori, and Nupste, those who ascend Kala Pattar are in for some astounding visual treats!

6. Mount Tukuhnikivatz – Utah

07-12-2008 - Denver to Moab 008

Set just outside the tiny city of Moab, the 1,250 foot high Mount Tukuhnikivatz sits just on the edge of the La Sal Mountain range. From the summit you’ll have astounding views of the red canyons, city, and desert below.

5. Mount Ararat – Turkey

The Glacier at the Summit, Mount Ararat

Located in eastern Turkey, Mount Ararat is situated right near the borders of Russia and Iran. The 15,000 foot mountain is actually a dormant volcano. The climb itself, devoid of trees or shrubbery, is rumored to be a bit boring, but the views of the landscape below – with visibility as far as Armenia – are absolutely astounding.

4. Mount Olympus – Washington State

Blue Glacier on Mount Olmpus at Sunrise

The peak of Mount Olympus in Washington State stands 7,962 feet high. After trekking around beautiful lakes and through old forests and rainforests you’ll find yourself at the top, looking down on magnificent flowing rivers and the rest of Olympic National Park. The mountain is great for beginners who have at least one or two mountains under their belts and are in great physical condition.

3. Kilimanjaro – Tanzania

Mount Kilimanjaro - 19000 feet

Believe it or not, there IS snow atop Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania – for now, anyway. If you want to see the snow at the top of the tallest mountain in the world you’ll have to get there before changes in the global warming melt it completely away. Kilimanjaro is known as the tallest mountain that can be climbed without equipment and by amateur or inexperienced climbers. The only pitfall is that you must be in astounding physical shape for a hike that takes 5 days in each direction.

2. Mount Washington – New Hampshire

Mount Washington, White Mountains, New Hampshire 11/19/07

The tallest peak on in the New England states, Mount Washington stands 6,288 feet high. Because of heavy snowfall in the region, most of the hiking trails up Mount Washington are only open during the summer months. A summer hike doesn’t mean you won’t be surprised, though. Mount Washington has some of the most unpredictable weather patterns ever, so a summer snowfall shouldn’t come as a huge surprise.

1. Mount Fujiyama – Japan

Close up of Fujiyama at Sunset from Yamanakako

A climb to the top of Mount Fujiyama, standing 11,000 feet high, is a once in a lifetime experience. Mount Fujiyama, a dormant volcano, hasn’t erupted since 1708. Climbing routes are only open to the public during the months of July and August. During that time you’ll find that most of the locals open their huts to provide refreshments and help in the event of an emergency.

These incredible peaks are perfect for climbers in good health and decent physical condition. Pack your hiking boots, grab a bag of snack mix, and hit the trails. You won’t be sorry!

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