Outdoor Blog

Non-Technical Mountain Climbs: 10 Best Hiking Summits

Published

3 years ago

April 20, 2021

Not everyone is an experienced mountaineer, and getting started can be hard. Let’s face it: climbing Everest sounds like fun until you realize you’ve never climbed a mountain before. And while you want to start off easy, you also don’t want to start on mountains no one has heard of. Here are some non-technical climbs on well-known mountains all over the world!

1. Mount Kenya (Kenya, Africa)

Located in the country it’s named after, Mount Kenya is 17,057 feet high, and it is the second tallest mountain in Africa. Hiking the whole mountain takes 10 days to complete, and the terrains vary on each peak. Mount Kenya has three main peaks: Nelion, Batian, and Lenana Peak.

Peaks Batian and Nelion are permanently frozen with small glaciers and snow, and they have lots of technical climbs. They both require an ice ax and crampons and are considered advanced rock climbing. While they sound rewarding, an inexperienced climber should consider the third peak to begin.

Lenana Peak is the non-technical peak. While it is the mountain’s third-highest point, this peak offers an abundant amount of flora and fauna. You can explore the exotic wilderness of Mount Kenya National Park. Lenana Peak is a very attainable climb. It’s popular among families who want to start hiking together. It also offers a beautiful landscape for the full African experience.

Mount Kilimanjaro and clouds line at sunset

Kilimanjaro is the fourth most topographically prominent peak on Earth.

2. Mount Kilimanjaro (Tanzania, Africa)

Mount Kilimanjaro is one of the Seven Summits. It’s a dormant volcano and is the world’s tallest free-standing mountain. It’s about 19,340 feet high and towers over most of Africa. Climbing Kilimanjaro depends on which route you take; some routes can take four nights while others can take between six and eight nights. Kilimanjaro has five routes: Lemosho Route, Machame Route, Northern Circuit, Rongai Route, and Shira Route.

The Lemosho Route is a relaxed route; it allows about eight days to climb and keeps a good height balance between campsites. You’ll pass through forests and traverses, and this route has an average success rate of 91%. The Machame Route is the most popular, which means it’s the most crowded. It has the best views to the west of the mountain, so its popularity is understandable.

The Northern Circuit can be done in eight days but is more relaxed to do in nine days. Basically, everyone reaches the peak on this route, and it doesn’t get super crowded. It’s great for those who prefer solitude while climbing. The Rongai Route is a six-day hike that climbs the northern side of the mountain. You can add a day to this journey to get accustomed to the high altitude, and it has spectacular views.

Lastly, the Shira Route is an eight-day route that goes through the wilderness of the Shira Plateau. This route ascends the mountain from the west side and has a fairly high success rate.

3. Mount Toubkal (Morocco, Africa)

Mount Toubkal is the highest peak in northern Africa, standing at 13,671 feet. Climbing the mountain only takes about two days. There’s a base camp around 10521 feet where trekkers can eat, sleep, and acclimatize to the altitude. While Morocco is typically very warm, it will get colder the higher you climb.

This mountain is considered a good introduction to mountaineering because it only takes a long weekend to finish. However, the climb can be more challenging in the winter months. While you typically don’t need crampons and ice axes on this trek, it’s not uncommon to see them out during the winter months.

The main season for climbing Mount Toubkal is between May and October. Something many guide companies like to do on this trek is wake up early enough on the second day so they can watch the sunrise from the peak. While you might not be an early riser, that certainly sounds like a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

4. Mera Peak (Nepal, Asia)

Mera Peak is known as a trekking peak and features a culturally stimulating trip through Nepal’s backcountry. It’s about 21,246 feet high, so be careful of altitude sickness if you don’t climb very often. From Mera, climbers can see mountains like Everest, Kangchenjunga, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyo. Mera Peak offers great views of the Himalayan Mountain Range. This trek can be a round trip or you can descend the other side of the mountain.

On this way down, climbers can see Imja Tse, which is also known as Island Peak. The best time to climb Mera Peak is April to May or October to November. The main goal when choosing when to schedule your trip is to make sure that it isn’t monsoon season and it isn’t too dark and cold. Even if you go before winter, you will need an ice ax and crampons to make this trek. Don’t let the fact that it’s a part of the Himalayas scare you. Mera Peak is one of the most accessible Himalayan climbs.

Mount Fuji has been considered perfect throughout history because of its symmetrical shape.

5. Mount Fuji (Japan, Asia)

This is the highest mountain in Japan, and it’s also the most climbed mountain in the world. It has an elevation gain of 12,388 feet, and it’s still an active volcano. However, it hasn’t erupted in about 300 years, so you should be safe. Mount Fuji is considered one of Japan’s three sacred mountains, along with Mount Tateyama and Mount Hakusan.

While it’s about 100 miles away from Tokyo, Mount Fuji can be seen from the capital of Japan on a clear day. This mountain is only open for climbing between July and August, so make sure you plan your trip accordingly. Climbing Mount Fuji only takes about eight hours, so it’s great for a day trip while you’re visiting Japan.

There are four routes to the peak: the Yoshida, Subashiri, Gotemba, and Fujinomiya trails. The Yoshida and Fujinomiya trails are the most popular, which is mostly because they have bigger parking lots so tour buses stop there. While it can be called “climbing,” it’s more of a hike than it is rock climbing. The trip can be done without any climbing gear, such as ropes and poles.

6. Mount Stok Kangri (India, Asia)

This mountain is 20,182 feet tall, so acclimatization is key. It’s also the highest peak in the Stok Range of the Himalayas. It’s located in the northern part of India, and trekking the mountain takes about nine days. This round-trip trek is best done between July and mid-September.

This climb is popular because it offers complete peace. Your surroundings are deserted, and the peak gives you the perfect view of the Zanskar Range and the Indus Valley. This climb is also popular because it’s a great starting point for non-technical climbers. The main problem people have with this mountain is the high altitude, and that’s because they don’t acclimatize.

An ice ax and crampons are not required for this climb, but it never hurts to have them handy. Every guide company is different, and you might not want to use one at all. However, some companies will take you through the Thiksey Monastery, which is a Buddhist gompa.

7. Mont Blanc (Franca/Italy, Europe)

Straddling the border of France and Italy, Mont Blanc stands at 15,771 feet. It takes about three days to climb the mountain, but hikers can choose to spend a few days prior to the ascent to acclimatize to the high altitude. This summit can be very busy during the warm months.

This hike can be dangerous because the landscape of the mountain is ever-changing. Crampons and ice axes are vital to completing this summit, and it’s recommended to climb Mont Blanc with a guide for the first time. There are many glaciers on the mountain so be careful of crevasses and serac falls. The best time to climb Mont Blanc is between late May and late September.

Because the mountain sits in two countries, you can climb from either side. The most popular starting points are Chamonix, France, and Courmayeur, Italy. Most guides start outside of Chamonix, so be mindful of that when planning your trip. It’s almost vital to climb with a guide because it’s hard to find a hut to spend the night in without one.

There are lots of routes to take to the peak of Mont Blanc, but the four most popular are the Grand Mulets Route, the Italian Route, the Trois Monts Route, and the Gouter Route. The Gouter Route has become the “normal” route, and it’s considered the least technical route to the summit. The Trois Monts Route is the most technical, the Italian Route is the quietest, and the Grand Mulets Route is the original route taken by the first people to climb the mountain.

8. Mount Elbrus (Russia, Europe)

Mount Elbrus is the highest peak in Europe, making it one of the Seven Summits. Although it is the highest summit in Europe, it requires less technical skills than some of the smaller mountains on the continent. But, don’t let this go to your head because you should always be more than prepared when climbing any mountain.

Mount Elbrus is a dormant volcano, having its last eruption in 50 A.D. The mountain has two main peaks: the Western and the Eastern. The Western summit is about 18,513 feet, and the Eastern summit is only slightly shorter at 18,442 feet. The Eastern summit was climbed about 45 years before the Western summit.

There is one main route, the Standard Route, that is used by most climbers and guide groups. This route has no crevasses, but that’s if you don’t wander off the marked path. The climb up takes about six to nine hours, and the descent takes about three to six hours. There are other routes to the peak, but they’re rarely used because they are very dangerous. So, your best bet is to take the Standard Route.

Like with climbing any mountain, one of the main dangers is the weather. Extremely cold weather and sudden storms are really common on Mount Elbrus. Remember to bring crampons and ice axes with you. Also, altitude sickness can be very common on Elbrus, so be sure to give yourself and those with you time to acclimatize. The best time to climb Mount Elbrus is from mid-July to mid-September.

While Mount Whitney may look daunting, anyone who has the determination can accomplish it.

9. Mount Whitney (California, USA, North America)

This mountain stands at 14,505 feet tall, making it the tallest peak in California and in the United States. Funnily enough, the mountain sits 84 miles away from the lowest point in North America, which is the Badwater Basin in Death Valley National Park. The California Geological Survey named the peak after Josiah Whitney, California’s state geologist.

There are a few different ways to climb Mount Whitney. There’s the Mt. Whitney Trail, the short version of the John Muir Trail, the High Sierra Trail, and the long version of the John Muir Trail. The Mt. Whitney Trail is by far the easiest and most popular because of that fact. Although, permits are required to hike and camp on this trail.

The short version of the John Muir Trail goes up the backside of Whitney from Guitar Lake, and it requires a backcountry permit. If you want to take longer to hike, the High Sierra Trail is about 72 miles long and starts in the Sequoia National Park. The John Muir Trail, in its entirety, is about 212 miles long and starts in Yosemite National Park. Trekking all of this trail would take you about a month to complete. It’s possible to summit Whitney in one day, but it’s not recommended for beginning mountaineers.

Getting a permit to hike Mount Whitney is slightly competitive, meaning the Inyo National Forest runs its own lottery to give out permits. The lottery starts at the beginning of February and ends mid-March, and you have to claim your permit by May 1. The best months to hike Whitney are from July to September.

10. Mount Aconcagua (Argentina, South America)

Mount Aconcagua is one of the Seven Summits and stands at 22,838 feet. It’s also the highest peak in both the Western and Southern Hemispheres. Climbing the summit can take between three and 20 days, depending on how you want to do it. This mountain has two main routes: The Vacas Valley Route and the Aconcagua Normal Route. The Vacas Valley Route is referred to as tried and true, but also as more aesthetically pleasing.

It offers a quiet traverse up the mountain and has base camps along the way. This route is seen as more technically challenging, posing more of a threat to non-technical climbers. The Aconcagua Normal Route is considered the easiest one. The main thing to beware of on this route is altitude sickness. However, don’t underestimate a mountain. Whichever route you take, don’t forget an ice axe and crampons.

To summit Mount Aconcagua, you’ll need to get a permit. And, there are different permits for the different number of days you wish to spend climbing. The high season ranges from mid-December to the following end of January, and the low season ranges from mid-November to mid-December and the beginning of February to the end of April. There are two main basecamps, Plaza Argentina and Plaza des Mules, that have doctors to examine whether you’re fit enough to continue the climb to the summit.

Outdoor Blog

BougeRV Showcases Sustainable Innovations at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024

Published

1 month ago

June 26, 2024

Jonas Muthoni

BougeRV is thrilled to participate in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024, scheduled from June 17-19 at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. As North America’s premier outdoor industry trade show, the event is a convergence of top brands, retailers, and industry professionals showcasing the latest in outdoor gear and innovations. BougeRV’s participation is a perfect example of their commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly outdoor living solutions.

At the head of BougeRV’s exhibit is the Rocky Portable Fridge, a robust and versatile cooling solution designed to meet the demands of outdoor enthusiasts. This innovative fridge features dual-zone capability, allowing it to function simultaneously as a refrigerator and a freezer. Built with heavy-duty materials, the Rocky Portable Fridge is designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, including shockproof capabilities up to 40°. The fridge’s efficient energy consumption, coupled with a battery protection system, makes it perfect for off-grid adventures, aligning perfectly with the sustainable ethos of the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market.

The Rocky Portable Fridge also shows off an impressive temperature range from -4°F to 68°F, allowing for precise temperature control. Its smart storage solutions, including a removable divider and basket, ensure that items remain organized and easily accessible. The fridge can be powered by a 12V/24V DC car port, a 100-240V AC wall outlet, or an optional portable power station, providing unparalleled versatility. This adaptability is crucial for modern adventurers who require reliable and efficient cooling solutions on the go.

In addition to the Rocky Portable Fridge, BougeRV is showing several other cutting-edge products designed to enhance outdoor experiences. The CRPRO 30, a compact and high-performance fridge, is perfect for campers and RV enthusiasts. Its advanced cooling technology and robust build make it a reliable companion for any journey. Similarly, the 4000BTU Portable Air Conditioner is tailored for overlanding and camping, offering powerful cooling with user-friendly features such as dual adjustable air outlets and an IPX4 water-resistant design. These products are expected to attract overlanding enthusiasts eager to explore the latest innovations in outdoor living.

BougeRV’s participation in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market is really and truly about connecting with other industry leaders, exploring emerging trends, and demonstrating their commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly practices. By attending this prestigious and engaging event, BougeRV aims to highlight their dedication to providing high-quality products that cater to the needs of modern outdoor enthusiasts.

For more details about BougeRV and their innovative products, visit the BougeRV website. BougeRV’s involvement in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024 highlights their dedication to sustainability, innovation, and customer satisfaction, positioning them as a leading brand in the outdoor industry ready to make a significant impact at this breakout event.

Outdoor Blog

The Evolution of Outdoor Apparel: How Fashion Meets Functionality in the Wilderness

Published

2 months ago

June 2, 2024

Sam Brooks

The wilderness beckons with the promise of adventure, but any seasoned hunter knows that what you wear can make or break your experience. Gone are the days when outdoor apparel was purely utilitarian. Today, fashion and functionality blend seamlessly to create gear that’s not only practical but also stylish. From the latest camouflage patterns to weather-resistant fabrics, let’s explore the evolution of outdoor apparel and how it’s revolutionizing the way we approach the great outdoors.

Camouflage: The Stylish Science of Stealth

Camouflage has come a long way from the simple green and brown patterns of yesteryear. Modern camouflage designs are now a blend of advanced science and cutting-edge style. These patterns aren’t just about blending into the background; they’re about creating an optical illusion that makes the wearer nearly invisible to wildlife.

Contemporary camo gear incorporates a variety of colors and textures to match different environments, from dense forests to arid deserts. This evolution in design is as much about aesthetics as it is about effectiveness, allowing hunters to move through their chosen terrain with confidence and stealth.

The shift towards more sophisticated camouflage patterns also reflects a broader trend in outdoor apparel: the desire for gear that looks good and performs even better. Hunters today want apparel that makes a statement while still providing the ultimate in concealment. Whether it’s a jacket with a sleek, modern design or pants that offer the perfect balance of comfort and camouflage, today’s outdoor apparel combines fashion and function like never before.

Layering: The Key to Comfort and Style

Layering is a critical concept in outdoor apparel, offering both practical and aesthetic benefits. Modern layering systems are designed to regulate body temperature and provide protection from the elements. However, they also offer a chance to showcase personal style. Successful layering starts with choosing pieces that work well together both functionally and visually.

Base layers, for instance, have evolved from simple thermal wear to stylish garments that can be worn on their own or as part of a layered ensemble. These pieces are often made from advanced fabrics that provide warmth without bulk, ensuring that hunters can stay comfortable and mobile. Mid-layers add another dimension of style and functionality, offering insulation while allowing for breathability. Softshell jackets and vests come in many different colors and designs, making it easy to find pieces that suit individual tastes.

Layering can also help you catch different kinds of animals. For instance, when you’re looking for turkey hunting tips, it’s important to look at the best kinds of layering to stay incognito and catch the best birds. Choosing the right layers can make a significant difference in staying comfortable and concealed during long hours in the field.

Footwear: From Trail to Trendsetter

Footwear is another area where outdoor apparel has seen significant evolution. In the past, hunting boots were purely functional, but, today, they still offer these essential qualities but have also become a fashion statement. Modern hunting boots come in a variety of styles, from traditional leather to contemporary synthetic materials, and are available in a range of colors and designs.

The advancements in footwear technology have been remarkable. Today’s hunting boots are designed to be lightweight yet durable, with features like waterproof membranes, breathable linings, and advanced traction systems. These innovations ensure that hunters can move comfortably and safely through any environment. But it’s not just about functionality; the aesthetic appeal of modern hunting boots is undeniable. Many boots are designed with sleek, stylish lines that make them suitable for wearing both in the field and in more casual settings.

High-Performance Gear: Pushing the Boundaries of Innovation

When it comes to hunting, high-performance gear is a game-changer. This is the section where outdoor apparel truly shines, combining cutting-edge technology with sleek design to create products that offer unmatched performance. Performance hunting gear includes everything from moisture-wicking base layers to high-tech outerwear designed to withstand the harshest conditions.

Today’s high-performance apparel utilizes advanced materials that are both lightweight and durable. Fabrics like Gore-Tex and other proprietary blends offer superior protection against wind and water while maintaining breathability. These materials help regulate body temperature, keeping hunters comfortable in a wide range of environments. In addition to these practical benefits, high-performance gear often features ergonomic designs that allow for a full range of motion, ensuring that hunters can move freely and easily.

Sustainable Fashion: Eco-Friendly Choices for the Modern Hunter

Sustainability has become an increasingly important consideration in the world of outdoor apparel. Hunters who are passionate about preserving the wilderness they love to explore are now seeking out eco-friendly clothing options that minimize environmental impact. Eco-friendly outdoor apparel is made from sustainable materials such as recycled polyester, organic cotton, and biodegradable fibers. These materials offer the same performance benefits as traditional fabrics but with a lower environmental footprint.

Outdoor Blog

The Role of Camouflage in Wildlife Photography and Hunting

Published

2 months ago

June 2, 2024

Caleb Cole

Camouflage plays a vital role in the worlds of wildlife photography and hunting, serving as an indispensable tool for enthusiasts and professionals alike. It’s not just about blending into the environment; it’s about becoming a part of it. Camouflage allows for closer interactions with wildlife, ensuring more successful hunts and breathtaking photographs. Here, we explore the key roles camouflage plays in these outdoor activities.

Blending In: The Art of Disappearing

One of the primary roles of camouflage is to help the wearer blend seamlessly into their surroundings. This art of disappearing is crucial whether you’re capturing a stunning image of a deer at dawn or patiently waiting for your prey during hunting season. In wildlife photography, the goal is to get as close as possible without disturbing the natural behavior of the animals. Camouflage clothing, face paint, and even equipment coverings can make the difference between a once-in-a-lifetime shot and a missed opportunity.

For hunters, blending into the environment increases the chances of a successful hunt. Animals have keen senses, and the slightest hint of an unnatural shape or color can send them running. Camouflage gear allows hunters to become virtually invisible. This skill of blending in isn’t just about wearing the right colors; it’s about understanding the terrain, the light, and how to move with stealth.

Reducing the Human Scent and Sound

Another critical aspect of camouflage in both photography and hunting is the reduction of human scent and sound. Animals naturally use their sense of smell and hearing to detect potential threats. Successful hunting trips often hinge on the ability to minimize human presence in these sensory fields. Specially designed camouflage clothing can help mask human odors, making it harder for animals to pick up on your scent.

Similarly, wildlife photographers need to consider their scent and sound output. Even the most visually inconspicuous photographer can ruin a perfect shot if their scent or a stray noise alerts the animals. Using scent-masking sprays and moving with extreme caution are part of the camouflage strategy, ensuring that photographers can get closer to their subjects without causing alarm.

Enhancing Patience and Stealth

Patience and stealth are virtues that every hunter and wildlife photographer must possess, and camouflage gear enhances these qualities. When you’re properly camouflaged, you can afford to be more patient, knowing that you are less likely to be detected. This confidence allows for longer waiting periods in prime locations, increasing the chances of capturing that perfect shot or making a successful kill.

For wildlife photographers, the need for patience is paramount. Animals won’t always show up when you want them to, and sudden movements can ruin hours of careful preparation. Camouflage helps in remaining undetected, allowing photographers to wait silently and still for the right moment. Hunters also benefit from this patience, as it enables them to wait for the ideal shot without rushing and potentially missing their target.

Specialized Camouflage for Different Hunts: Moose Hunting

Different types of hunting require specialized camouflage, and moose hunting is a prime example. Moose are large, elusive animals often found in dense forests and swampy areas. Successful moose hunters understand the need for specific camouflage patterns that mimic the unique environments where moose thrive. Moose hunting clothes are designed to blend into the dark, shadowy forests and marshes, making hunters virtually invisible to these keen-eyed creatures.

During moose hunting season, the right camouflage can make or break your experience. Moose have excellent vision and can easily detect unnatural movements or colors. By wearing appropriate camouflage, hunters can move quietly and position themselves for a clear shot without spooking their quarry.

The specialized gear often includes clothing that covers the entire body, including gloves and face masks, ensuring that no part of the hunter stands out against the natural backdrop. This thorough approach is essential in moose hunting, where patience and precision are key.

Capturing Authentic Wildlife Behavior

Wildlife photography isn’t just about taking beautiful pictures; it’s about capturing authentic wildlife behavior. Camouflage allows photographers to become invisible observers, documenting animals in their natural state without any human interference. This is particularly important for conservation efforts, as understanding genuine animal behavior can inform better strategies for protecting various species and their habitats.

Photographers who use camouflage can get closer to their subjects, often capturing moments that would be impossible to see from a distance. This proximity results in more intimate and detailed shots, showcasing the animals’ daily activities, interactions, and environments.

The authenticity of these images can inspire greater appreciation and respect for wildlife, encouraging more people to support conservation initiatives. By blending into the environment, photographers can witness and document behaviors that might otherwise go unnoticed, providing invaluable insights into the natural world.

outdoorcommand.com (Post 2)

The Evolution of Outdoor Apparel: How Fashion Meets Functionality in the Wilderness

Camouflage: The Stylish Science of Stealth

Layering: The Key to Comfort and Style

Footwear: From Trail to Trendsetter

High-Performance Gear: Pushing the Boundaries of Innovation

Sustainable Fashion: Eco-Friendly Choices for the Modern Hunter