What better way to see the sites but from up top? Many of us would love to be able to scale a mountain like Everest or K2. The unfortunate part is that not all of us are in good enough physical shape to be able to climb these legendary mountains. There are however, many smaller mountains for the rest of us. Here are a few.
Rumor has it that Mount Fuji is the most frequently-climbed mountain in the world. With an elevation of 12,388 feet, it’s also Japan’s tallest summit. Located on Honshu Island, Mount Fuji’s official climbing season only lasts from July to August, with many amateur and expert hikers alike flocking for its world famous sunrise and sunsets.
At 8,835 feet high, the views across Yosemite from Half-Dome, are some of the most magnificent in the United States. It is considered one of North America’s most stunning rock formations. One of the most famous parts of this hike is the ascent up the cables. The two metal cables allow hikers to climb 400 feet to the summit without hiking equipment.
Mount Olympus is one of Greece’s most famous landmarks. Not only is it Greece’s highest mountains, but it is also known for being a home for the gods. The good news is that you don’t need to have the strength of Zeus to climb up it. It’ll take two days to reach the highest peak of Mytikas, starting at the town of Prionia.
It may be surprising, but there are some peaks on this famous African mountain that are accessible for even the most novice climbers. The lowest peak, a dormant volcano Shira, is 13,000 feet high. The easiest of Kilimanjaro’s routes is the Marangu itinerary which takes approximately 5 days and features huts along the route for hikers to stay along the trek. These huts provide lots of opportunities to rest up during this long trek.
The United Kingdom’s tallest mountain is actually not that high. At only 3,900 feet high, crowds flock to the mountain to climb (or walk) the Mountain Track. Although it may not be as high as many Alpine Mountains, it is positioned on a northerly latitude and has climate similar to many Arctic regions. Climbers can expect a variety of weather changes so layers are a must!
Don’t be intimidated by the highest summit in Western Europe. Scaling a 14,000 ft. mountain might seem like a tall order, but a cable car will take you most of the way up the mountain (complete with bar service!) Don’t get too comfortable though, you’ll have to scale the final 3,000 feet yourself.
Mount Evans is one of the easiest of Colorado’s 54 summits to climb and is one of only two of the 54 that you can drive up. Located only 60 miles from Denver, Mount Evans makes a great day trip for the whole family.
At 7,310 feet high, Mount Kosciuszko has the claim to fame of the highest mountain Down Under. Visit during Australia’s summer months for some leisurely hiking or during the winter months to enjoy the area’s ski resorts.
While it may not be the most difficult mountain to climb, the biggest challenge associated with climbing Cotopaxi is acclimatizing to the thin air and unpredictable weather characteristic of the region. The climb up Cotopaxi takes approximately four days and offers many ideal spots for climbers to set up camp and enjoy the stunning views of the national park that surrounds the peak.
At 18,510 feet tall, Mt. Elbrus is the tallest mountain in all of Russia. Don’t worry, you aren’t required to climb the whole way up. A chairlift takes visitors up to the starting point of 12,500 feet. The hike is fairly untechnical and can be attempted by beginner hikers. Just watch out for the high altitude and extreme weather.
