Climbing Mount Mckinley (denali): North America’s Tallest Mountain and Its Climbing Tips

by

Table of Contents

Understanding Mount McKinley (Denali): North America’s Ultimate Mountaineering Challenge

Mount McKinley, federally designated as Denali, stands as the highest mountain peak in North America, with a summit elevation of 20,310 feet (6,190 meters) above sea level. In January 2025, the Department of the Interior under the Trump administration reverted the mountain’s official federal name to Mount McKinley. Despite the official name change, many climbers and locals continue to use the name Denali, which the Koyukon people who inhabit the area around the mountain have referred to the peak as for centuries.

Located in the Alaska Range in the interior of the U.S. state of Alaska, Denali is the centerpiece of Denali National Park and Preserve. What makes this mountain particularly formidable is not just its height, but its massive vertical relief. It is the tallest mountain in the world from base to peak on land, measuring 18,000 feet (5,500 meters). The vertical altitude gain on Denali from the usual base camp on the Kahiltna glacier requires climbers to gain about 3,960 meters (13,000 feet) of altitude.

Mountaineers flock from across the globe to test their strength and climbing prowess on this ultimate alpine test piece. It fluctuates a good bit from year to year, but it appears that it’s currently running a little over 1000 people per year attempting Denali. However, success is far from guaranteed. On average, out of the 1000 people attempting the West Buttress annually, only about 50% are successful, 100 acquire altitude sickness or frostbite and 12 rescues are made.

The History and Routes of Denali

First Ascents and Historical Significance

The first verifiable ascent to Denali’s summit was achieved on June 7, 1913, by climbers Hudson Stuck, Harry Karstens, Walter Harper, and Robert Tatum, who went by the South Summit. The modern era of Denali climbing began in 1951 when Bradford Washburn pioneered the West Buttress route, considered to be the safest and easiest route, and therefore the most popular currently in use.

Today, over 90% of climbers attempting Denali climb the West Buttress. This route has become the standard for good reason—it offers the best balance of accessibility, safety, and challenge for climbers attempting North America’s highest peak.

Beyond the West Buttress, Denali offers several more technical routes for experienced mountaineers:

  • West Rib Route: First ascended in 1963, the West Rib route introduces a higher level of difficulty and exposure. The route requires advanced alpine mountaineering skills and experience in steep ice climbing.
  • Cassin Ridge: First climbed by Riccardo Cassin and his team in 1961, this route is renowned for its extreme technical challenges and stunning beauty. It is a test of endurance, skill, and mental toughness, suited only for the most experienced climbers.
  • Muldrow Glacier Route: The Muldrow Glacier route on the north side of the mountain is just as technically demanding as the West Buttress, but does not have an option of flying into a base camp, making the approach very long.

Understanding Denali’s Extreme Terrain and Weather Conditions

The Unique Climate Challenge

Denali is known among climbers for its unique location near the Arctic Circle and the Pacific Ocean (Gulf of Alaska) in the subarctic climate zone, which is characterized by long, cold winters and short, cool summers. The weather on the mountain can be extremely unpredictable and fierce, with temperatures ranging from -50°C to +16°C (in summer).

The mountain’s high latitude creates additional challenges beyond what climbers might experience at similar elevations elsewhere. On the 6,194 meter summit of Denali in central Alaska, the barometric pressure is equivalent to barometric pressure at higher elevations at lower latitudes. This means the effective altitude is even higher than the actual elevation, making acclimatization more critical.

There is a lot of snowfall in the mountains throughout the year, with an average annual amount exceeding 10 meters at higher elevations. Wind is another major factor that climbers must contend with. Wind chills can reach -60°F. These extreme conditions can turn even moderate climbing days into survival situations.

Glacier Hazards and Technical Terrain

The lower half of the route is non-technical and is essentially a glacier hike, but climbers need to understand that the Kahiltna Glacier forms some of the biggest crevasses on the planet, which are often completely hidden by snow bridges of uncertain integrity. There have been numerous rescues of climbers who underestimated the Kahiltna Glacier, and more than one tragedy.

The lower half of the Denali West Buttress Route Map crosses heavily crevassed glaciers. Rope teams are mandatory. As climbers gain elevation, the challenges evolve. Risks of avalanche and rockfall increase as you gain elevation with steeper terrain, presenting travel and route selection challenges.

Essential Permits and Regulations for Climbing Denali

Registration Requirements

All climbers must register with Denali National Park at least 60 days before their intended climb. The 2026 fee is $350 for climbers aged 24 or younger, and $450 for climbers over age 24. This special use fee is subject to annual adjustments and must be paid when submitting the registration form through the official Pay.gov system.

Rangers will conduct a gear check to ensure you have the required safety and waste management equipment. This is an opportunity to address last-minute questions and ensure you are fully prepared. You will receive your climbing permit after completing the orientation and gear check. You must always carry this permit during your climb and present it to park rangers upon request.

Environmental Regulations and Waste Management

Denali National Park has strict environmental regulations to preserve the mountain’s pristine condition. Climbers must use Clean Mountain Cans (CMCs) to pack out all human waste. Denali National Park provides CMCs; all climbers must use them to maintain the mountain’s pristine environment.

All human waste must be deposited into biodegradable bags (provided by the National Park Service) and transported in CMCs. Human waste from the upper mountain including High Camp, in a CMC Bag may be deposited in the NPS approved crevasse near the camp at 14,200 feet, 4,300 meters. However, waste from the lower mountain must be carried out entirely.

The proper disposal of trash, fuel cans and human waste are not only the right thing to do, it is required. Failure to follow these requirements may result in the issuance of a violation notice, a fine, and/or other additional legal actions.

The West Buttress Route: A Detailed Overview

Route Description and Camp Locations

West Buttress expeditions begin at 7,200 feet on the Southeast Fork of the Kahiltna Glacier. They follow the Kahiltna north before ascending up onto the West Buttress proper. Climbers typically camp at 7,200 feet (basecamp), 7,800 feet, 9,500 feet, 11,000 feet, 14,200 feet and 17,200 feet.

The route progresses through distinct sections, each with its own challenges:

  • Base Camp to Camp 1 (7,800 feet): Distance equals 4 miles, Elevation Gain equals 3,200 feet. This initial section allows teams to settle into expedition life and begin acclimatization.
  • Camp 2 (11,000 feet): One of the first major acclimatization stops on the Denali West Buttress Route Map. Climbers cache supplies higher before moving camp.
  • Camp 3 (14,200 feet – Genet Basin): This is the primary acclimatization camp on the Denali summit route map. Many teams spend multiple days here. This camp serves as the crucial staging area for the upper mountain.
  • The Headwall: From 14 Camp, climbers ascend a gentle apron of snow that eventually steepens at a section called the Headwall. The Headwall spans the last 800 vertical feet to the crest of the ridge that leads to high camp at 17,220 feet. Fixed ropes are installed for climber safety.
  • High Camp (17,200 feet): From the top of the fixed lines to High Camp is perhaps the most aesthetic part of the entire West Buttress route. The climber’s route follows the crest of a narrow ridge that offers breathtaking views down off both sides of the ridge.

Summit Day

The climb begins with a long rising traverse along the Autobahn to Denali Pass at 18,200 feet. Beyond Denali Pass, climbers follow the ridge line, passing the Zebra Rocks and the Archdeacon’s Tower before gaining the Football Field at 19,200 feet. From there, it’s a final 600 vertical feet to the summit.

Summit day is very serious. Climbers should expect extreme cold, and only those sufficiently fit and prepared should attempt the top. The round-trip from high camp typically takes 10-14 hours, making it one of the longest and most demanding days of the expedition.

Physical Preparation and Training for Denali

Fitness Requirements and Training Recommendations

Reviewing the climbing resumes of successful Denali climbers reveals at least three of the following components: Physical Conditioning with focused training to prepare for carrying required pack weight; Elevation Experience of climbing to altitudes above 15,000 feet; Multi-Day Programs participating in unsupported multi-day climbing or trekking/backcountry trips, carrying all gear, and moving to different camps; and Recent Experience with climbing activities occurring within the last 3 to 5 years.

Carrying the heaviest pack of your life in the thin air of altitude at such a northern latitude can make West Buttress expeditions very physically challenging. Extreme winds, heavy snowfall and arctic cold all conspire to make it a serious undertaking. Climbers haul 100+ pound loads using sleds up to 11,000 feet.

An important note about fitness: An individual’s degree of fitness does not determine whether or not they will suffer altitude illness. Only a conservative ascent profile and proper acclimatization will prevent this. Many extremely fit climbers have encountered serious problems on Denali because they underestimated the importance of proper acclimatization.

Essential Mountaineering Skills

Before attempting Denali, climbers should be proficient in several critical mountaineering skills:

  • Glacier Travel: Understanding rope team dynamics, crevasse detection, and safe glacier navigation
  • Crevasse Rescue: Climbers must carry appropriate safety equipment, including ropes, harnesses, and crevasse rescue gear. Additionally, each climber should know crevasse rescue techniques and high-altitude medical procedures.
  • Self-Arrest Techniques: The ability to stop a fall on steep snow using an ice axe
  • Fixed Line Travel: Proper use of ascenders and descenders on fixed ropes
  • Cold Weather Camping: Setting up secure camps in extreme conditions, managing snow accumulation, and staying warm

Altitude Acclimatization: The Key to Success

Understanding Altitude Sickness

While mishaps involving crevasses, avalanches, and falls plague climbers every year, altitude illness is the most preventable cause of incidents on Denali. Understanding and preventing altitude sickness is crucial for a successful climb.

There are three main forms of altitude illness:

  • Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS): The most common form, with symptoms including headache, nausea, fatigue, and difficulty sleeping
  • High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE): A life-threatening form of altitude sickness that results from a buildup of fluid in the lungs. This buildup prevents proper oxygen exchange, putting the body in a hypoxic (oxygen-deficient) state.
  • High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE): Symptoms include decreased coordination (ataxia), disorientation and confusion, memory loss, irritability, and a severe headache.

Proper Acclimatization Strategy

Climbing high and sleeping low and limiting the rate of ascent to 1000 feet (300 meters) per day at higher altitudes are both effective in allowing the body adequate time for acclimatization. This principle is fundamental to Denali expeditions and is built into the typical climbing schedule.

A typical expedition lasts 17–21 days. This schedule includes planned rest days at strategic elevations and “Cache Days,” where you ascend to a certain height but then sleep at a lower elevation, allowing climbers to acclimate before spending more time at elevation.

A typical acclimatization schedule on the West Buttress includes:

  • Multiple carries between camps, ascending with loads and descending to sleep lower
  • Rest days at key elevations, particularly at 14,200 feet
  • Gradual progression to higher camps only after adequate acclimatization
  • Flexibility to add extra rest days if team members show signs of altitude illness

Medications for Altitude Illness

Climbers should have 125mg tablets of acetazolamide for the prevention or treatment of Acute Mountain Sickness. A normal prescription is 125mg tablets, twice a day. Recommend 15 – 20 tablets. Acetazolamide is the recommended drug for the treatment of AMS because of the fewer side effects and because it increases breathing, which aids in acclimatization.

Climbers should also carry 30mg slow-release tablets of nifedipine for the prevention or treatment of high-altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE). Recommend 8 – 10 tablets. However, when altitude illness does occur, descent is the first treatment option that should be considered. In more severe forms of altitude illness, such as HAPE and HACE, descent is imperative if the conditions permit.

Supporting Your Acclimatization

Staying well-hydrated is crucial for acclimatization. Drink plenty of water throughout your training and during the climb. Dehydration can exacerbate altitude sickness, so aim to drink at least 3-4 liters of water daily while on the mountain.

A balanced diet of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats supports your body during acclimatization. Carbohydrates are essential as they provide quick energy. Bring high-calorie snacks and meals to maintain your energy levels. At high altitude, your body burns significantly more calories than at sea level, so adequate nutrition is essential.

Essential Gear and Equipment for Denali

The Critical Three: Boots, Sleeping Bag, and Parka

There are three items that you must not skimp on: your climbing boots, your sleeping bag and your down parka. These will get you up and down the mountain safely.

Mountaineering Boots: Mountaineering boots for Denali fall into two categories: double boots and triple boot systems with integrated gaiters. Either variety works well; however, double boots need overboots for the upper mountain, making triple boots generally lighter and arguably simpler. They should be double boots – ideally triple – and at least rated for use at 6,000m. However, if you’re planning to climb higher mountains in the future then opt for 8,000m boots. Another advantage of 8,000m boots is that you won’t need to buy additional overboots which are needed for 6,000m boots.

Sleeping Bag: Your sleeping bag should be rated to -40°F (-40°C), preferably down-filled for better warmth-to-weight ratio. The extreme cold at high camps makes a quality sleeping bag essential for recovery and safety.

Down Parka: For summit day, a down jacket with at least 380g of 800+ fill power is essential along with top and bottom waterproof shells. Your down parka will be your best friend in camp. It’s not usually worn while climbing, but when the temperature cools in the evening, it is the first thing to go on. At cold rest breaks during the climb you will want to throw it on to trap body heat and avoid chilling. For that reason, size your parka large enough to fit over all other layers that you might be wearing, including your outer shell.

Comprehensive Gear List

Backpack and Sled: Denali loads are hefty, so you’ll want a big pack. 85 liters is about as small as most mortals should consider, and if you are not a seasoned and efficient packer, you might want a 100-liter pack. You’re going to want a sled to haul your mountain of gear and supplies up glacier.

Climbing Equipment:

  • Crampons: 10 or 12-point mountaineering crampons that fit your boots well
  • Ice Axes: Both a standard glacier travel axe and potentially a technical ice tool for the headwall
  • Harness: Lightweight harnesses designed for alpine climbing will fit better under your pack hip belt than a fully padded harness. Gear loops should be attached at the bottom of the swami belt or they will rub you raw under the weight of your pack.
  • Ascender: There is enough fixed line on the West Buttress to justify bringing a full-handled ascender. It will make you much more efficient on the headwall than you could ever be by securing yourself with a prusik.
  • Rope: For the West Buttress, many guides recommend using a low-stretch rope rather than a traditional dynamic climbing rope, as the risk of taking longer crevasse falls on a thin, very stretchy dynamic rope outweighs the risk of added forces from a fall on steep terrain.

Clothing Layers: Woollen base layers are ideal, particularly Merino wool. A comprehensive layering system should include:

  • Base layers (top and bottom)
  • Mid-layers (fleece or synthetic insulation)
  • Insulated pants for high camps and summit day
  • Waterproof shell jacket and pants
  • Multiple pairs of gloves and mittens
  • Warm hat, balaclava, and neck gaiter

Eye Protection: You will need grade/category 4 glacier glasses. Regular sunglasses aren’t dark enough and you will develop snow blindness. Bring backup glasses and goggles for storm conditions.

Camping Equipment:

  • Four-season tent capable of withstanding extreme winds
  • Sleeping pad (insulated air mattress plus closed-cell foam backup)
  • Stove and fuel bottles
  • Cooking and eating utensils
  • Headlamp with extra batteries
  • Snow shovel and saw for camp construction

Gear Preparation Tips

Acquire all of your equipment well in advance. Pack up your pack completely and weigh it. If it weighs more than 50 pounds go back through all of your equipment with a fine-toothed comb. Start by eliminating unnecessary luxuries. Before the expedition, ensure all equipment functions properly in cold conditions.

Because many of the items on the list need to fit you well in order for you to fully enjoy your experience on the mountain, you should plan to have your gear early enough to try it on before you head out. Perched on a ledge at 15,000 feet on the West Buttress is not the place to discover that any one piece of gear does not work for you.

Choosing the Right Season and Timing

Optimal Climbing Window

The climbing season on Denali typically runs from late April through mid-July, with the majority of expeditions taking place in May and June. The weather is typically more stable in May, but colder. And vice versa, the weather is typically warmer in June and July, but typically less stable.

Attempting Denali via the West Buttress any later than early July is not advised because landing a bush plane on the southeast fork of the Kahliltna Galcier becomes too dangerous. As the season progresses, the crevasses are much more exposed, especially on the lower part of the mountain.

Most climbers target a mid-May to mid-June departure, which provides the best balance of stable weather, manageable temperatures, and safe glacier conditions. However, weather on Denali is notoriously unpredictable, and climbers should be prepared for extended periods of storm-bound waiting at any time during the season.

Guided vs. Independent Expeditions

Benefits of Guided Climbs

For many climbers, especially those attempting Denali for the first time, joining a guided expedition offers significant advantages. Some guide services require their lead guides to have a minimum of five Denali expeditions under their boots before they can lead an expedition, with some guides having 10 or more years of Denali experience.

Denali expeditions have been the centerpiece of some guide companies since 1976, and their base of institutional knowledge and experience is unparalleled. Their philosophy for guiding a Denali climb includes three goals: Everyone comes home in good health; Everyone has a great experience; Everyone stands on the summit. They will never sacrifice the first two goals for the sake of the third; however, their summit success speaks for itself with more than 70% of the 321 West Buttress expeditions launched in the last 20 years reaching the summit.

Guided expeditions typically handle logistics including:

  • Permit registration and coordination
  • Group equipment provision
  • Food planning and preparation
  • Route finding and decision making
  • Medical support and emergency response
  • Technical instruction and skill development

Authorized Guide Services

Several reputable guide services are authorized to operate on Denali, including Alpine Ascents International, American Alpine Institute, Mountain Trip, and Rainier Mountaineering Inc. (RMI). Each offers slightly different expedition styles, ratios, and approaches, so research carefully to find the best fit for your experience level and climbing style.

Critical Climbing Tips for Denali Success

Pre-Expedition Preparation

  • Train Specifically: Train for endurance, strength, and altitude acclimatization. Focus on weighted pack carries, cardiovascular conditioning, and if possible, training at elevation.
  • Practice Skills: Acquire your equipment well in advance. Practice with it and use it out in the mountains. Train seriously for the expedition so that when you arrive at the start of the climb, you will be confident that you have done everything possible to prepare yourself mentally and physically.
  • Pre-Acclimatization: Acclimatizing for a minimum of 2–3 nights at around 2,450 to approximately 2,750 meters (8,000–9,000 feet) before proceeding to a higher altitude is markedly protective against acute mountain sickness (AMS).
  • Medical Consultation: Consult with your physician about altitude medications and ensure you have appropriate prescriptions for acetazolamide and nifedipine.

On the Mountain

  • Pace Yourself: If you want to climb Denali, you need to be in top physical shape and prepared to suffer with a smile. Maintain a sustainable pace throughout the expedition, avoiding the temptation to push too hard early on.
  • Stay Hydrated and Fed: Force yourself to drink and eat even when you don’t feel like it. Dehydration and inadequate calorie intake are common problems that significantly impact performance and acclimatization.
  • Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to symptoms of altitude illness and communicate honestly with your team or guides about how you’re feeling. Early intervention can prevent serious problems.
  • Respect Weather Windows: Stay informed and keep updated on weather forecasts and route conditions. Be prepared to wait for good weather and willing to turn around if conditions deteriorate.
  • Maintain Your Gear: Dress in layers appropriate for the hour in which you are traveling. This might change a lot from hour to hour. Keep critical items like boots, gloves, and sleeping bags dry.
  • Build Strong Camps: Take time to properly construct snow walls and secure tents. A well-built camp can make the difference between comfort and misery during multi-day storms.

Decision Making and Safety

Do not underestimate this route despite its non-technical nature. About 40 people have died on the West Buttress. Safe climbing on Denali requires conservative decision-making and the willingness to turn back when necessary.

Key safety principles include:

  • Always rope up for glacier travel, even on seemingly safe terrain
  • Maintain proper spacing and tension on rope teams
  • Probe suspicious areas before crossing
  • Descend immediately if serious altitude illness symptoms develop
  • Don’t let summit fever override good judgment
  • Be prepared to assist other climbers in distress

Logistics and Travel Considerations

Getting to Denali

From the Anchorage airport, it is roughly a two-hour drive to Talkeetna, which is a small town and the main staging area for climbing most routes on Denali and the Alaska Range in general. Most climbers fly into Anchorage, spend a night organizing gear and purchasing last-minute supplies, then drive to Talkeetna for the mandatory ranger orientation and gear check.

From Talkeetna, climbers fly via ski-equipped aircraft to the Kahiltna Glacier base camp at 7,200 feet. These glacier flights are weather-dependent and can be delayed for days during poor conditions, so build flexibility into your travel schedule.

Budget Considerations

A Denali expedition represents a significant financial investment. Costs include:

  • Climbing permit fees ($350-450)
  • Park entrance fee ($15)
  • Guided expedition fees (typically $8,000-12,000) or independent climbing costs
  • Round-trip glacier flight ($400-600)
  • Gear purchases or rentals (potentially $2,000-5,000 for a complete kit)
  • Travel to and from Alaska
  • Lodging in Anchorage and Talkeetna
  • Food and supplies
  • Travel insurance and evacuation coverage

Budget for potential delays due to weather, which can add several days of expenses in Talkeetna or extend the expedition timeline.

Environmental Responsibility and Leave No Trace

Denali’s pristine wilderness requires careful stewardship from all who climb there. Beyond the mandatory waste management requirements, climbers should embrace Leave No Trace principles:

  • Pack out all trash, including micro-trash like food wrappers and cigarette butts
  • Minimize campsite impact by using established tent platforms when available
  • Avoid creating new trails or shortcuts
  • Respect wildlife by maintaining distance and storing food properly
  • Keep noise levels down to preserve the wilderness experience for others
  • Properly dispose of all human waste using the CMC system

Enough climbers want to see Denali kept pristine that they will not hesitate to report violations. The climbing community takes environmental protection seriously, and violations can result in fines and permit cancellations.

Mental Preparation and Expedition Life

Physical preparation is only part of the equation for Denali success. The mental challenges of a three-week expedition in extreme conditions can be equally demanding. Climbers should prepare for:

  • Extended Storm Days: Be prepared to spend multiple consecutive days tent-bound during storms. Bring books, cards, or other entertainment, and develop patience for waiting.
  • Team Dynamics: Living in close quarters with teammates for weeks tests interpersonal skills. Practice good communication, flexibility, and consideration for others.
  • Discomfort and Suffering: Accept that you will be cold, tired, and uncomfortable at times. Mental resilience and a positive attitude are crucial for pushing through difficult moments.
  • Uncertainty: Weather, route conditions, and team health can all change plans. Embrace flexibility and avoid becoming too attached to specific timelines or outcomes.
  • Summit Decisions: Be mentally prepared to turn around short of the summit if conditions or personal health dictate. The mountain will always be there for another attempt.

After the Climb: Descent and Recovery

The descent from Denali requires as much care and attention as the ascent. Many accidents occur during the descent when climbers are tired and less vigilant. Take your time, maintain proper rope team protocols, and don’t let your guard down until you’re safely back at base camp.

After returning to Talkeetna, allow time for physical recovery. The extreme exertion and altitude exposure take a significant toll on the body. Proper rest, nutrition, and gradual return to normal activity levels are important for full recovery.

Resources for Further Learning

Aspiring Denali climbers should take advantage of numerous resources available for preparation:

  • National Park Service: The Denali National Park mountaineering page provides official information on permits, regulations, and current conditions.
  • Guide Service Websites: Many guide services offer detailed preparation information, gear lists, and training advice even for independent climbers.
  • Mountaineering Books: Classic texts like “Denali’s West Buttress” and “Surviving Denali” provide valuable historical context and safety information.
  • Training Programs: Consider specialized mountaineering courses or Denali preparation programs offered by guide services and climbing schools.
  • Online Communities: Connect with other climbers through forums and social media groups to learn from their experiences and ask questions.

Conclusion: Embracing the Challenge of North America’s Highest Peak

Denali is at the apex of mountaineering in North America. Climbing the highest peak on the continent in serious terrain and conditions is no easy task. Success requires comprehensive preparation across multiple dimensions: physical fitness, technical skills, proper equipment, altitude acclimatization, mental resilience, and sound judgment.

An ascent of Mount McKinley touches the psyche of all alpinists, and for those who have undertaken its challenges, it rewards them with an unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime experience. Whether you reach the summit or turn back before the top, the experience of attempting Denali provides profound lessons in perseverance, humility, and the power of wild places.

For those willing to invest the time, effort, and resources required, Denali offers one of the world’s premier mountaineering experiences. The combination of extreme altitude, arctic conditions, massive vertical relief, and stunning wilderness creates a challenge that tests climbers to their limits while rewarding them with memories and accomplishments that last a lifetime.

Start your preparation early, train diligently, choose your team or guide service carefully, and approach the mountain with respect and humility. With proper preparation and conservative decision-making, you can safely pursue your goal of standing atop North America’s highest peak and experiencing the magnificent wilderness of the Alaska Range. For more information on high-altitude mountaineering and expedition planning, visit the American Alpine Club website, which offers extensive resources for climbers of all levels.