Outside Magazine Recommends Climbs for Beginners

Amy Clark recommends Colorado’s Mt. Elbert, California’s Mt. Shasta, and Washington’s Mt. Baker — in order of increasing difficulty. “Like many other physical feats, mountaineering takes practice — and lots of it. Fortunately, you’ve got plenty of options. The United States alone has 87 peaks that reach 14,000 feet or higher. And even though all are in the western half of North America, the panoramic views from the summit are worth the trip. Since you’re a beginner, plan to tackle one peak at a time, starting with an easier ascent, and then progressing to a more technical guided one.”