What are the best mountains for climbing beginners?
Mountain climbing is a beautiful hobby to have, especially if you live near any of the country’s famous summits. If you are new to this sport and are afraid to start because you have no idea where to climb as a beginner, here is a list of places that are perfect for newbies. Remember that mountain climbing is not reserved only for experienced climbers with expensive gear.
Conquering a peak is available to everybody who wants to do it. Starting with the easiest summits will help you prepare for bigger climbing challenges.
Mt. Katahdin, Baxter State Park, Maine
Mt. Katahdin reaches a height of 5,269 feet, and it’s the highest point in Maine. The trail to the summit will provide you with some amazing views of the Maine backcountry. The exciting part of it is that at some points the path is only a few feet wide and you need to be careful not to fall off the cliff. For all of you that don’t have a problem walking on a narrow path, this trail will provide useful training. If you decide to visit this trail, do it early in the morning. The daily number of visitors is limited, so make sure you arrive first.
Guadalupe Peak, Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Texas
The Guadalupe Peak is 8,751 feet high, and if you want to conquer it, you will need 6 to 8 hours for the round trip. The trail is 4,25 miles long, and it’s not hard to climb. Also, you can do it at any time of the year without worrying about severe weather conditions. As a beginner climber, you need to be fit, but this is not a hike that will exhaust you or feel like it’s an impossible task.
Half Dome, Yosemite National Park, California
As with all the other peaks, the Half Dome hike requires you to start early in the morning. Knowing that Half Dome is a famous climbing destination, try to be there early and enjoy the whole day on the trail. You will be rewarded with stunning views of the Yosemite Valley and the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range. The granite giant is maybe not the easiest peak to conquer, but as a beginner, you will love the challenge.
Stony Man Mountain, Shenandoah Valley National Park, Virginia
This 4000 foot mountain is easy to climb and suitable for all beginners. Make sure you have ankle-support boots because of the rocky terrain along the trail. Once you reach the peak, you can take in the Appalachian Mountain Range, George Washington National Forest, and the Shenandoah Valley.
Desolation Peak, North Cascades National Park, Washington
Desolation Peak is about 6 miles away from the Canada-US border, and it’s 6102 feet high. Climbing towards the peak, you will experience magnificent views of the North Cascades range. The Desolation Peak hike is a steep trail that reaches high meadows and offers a panoramic view of the whole area. It’s one of the favorite peaks to climb among the climbers that don’t use any additional gear and just like to hike to the top.
Mountain climbing is an outdoor activity for everybody that likes to spend an active day exploring new terrain. Besides exploring, mountain hikes are perfect for your physical and mental health and will help you stay fit. No matter how much you fear the idea of mountain climbing or how little experience you have, if you have the urge to reach the top, give it a try. There is no such feeling as conquering a peak, even if it’s not the highest one in the world. Seeing everything from a mountaintop will give you a different perspective on life. Stay safe and good luck!
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