I am becoming very interested in mountain climbing. Can anyone?

Question

offer their own experiences with this, from initial interest to your first big climb.
Like how difficult was it? What kinds of people did you climb with? etc.. etc ..

Answer 1

I think I always liked climbing. I was raised in Indiana though so I climbed on jungle gyms and things. In Jr. High I moved to Colorado and began climbing mountains. I have climbed all 54 peaks higher than 14,000 feet in Colorado (called the 14ers) and now I am rock climbing and find it to be a lot of fun too. I have also seen ice climbing and it looks pretty good too. I started climbing with my Dad, but now I climb with different people.

Answer 2

I'm more into shorter, technical climbs, since that's what we have here in Thunder Bay, ON. (although I'd like to get out west soon, especially to climb some longer alpine ice routes!)

But, I can tell you that the same rules apply to starting out mountain climbing: work your way up by starting with easy routes and don't push your limits too much untill you get a feel for the grading system. The best way to learn climbing is through an informal apprenticeship with an experienced climber. Maybe contact your local alpine club for help with that, or ask around. Also, there is lots that you should read before you set out. Start with "The Freedom of the Hills". Even if you are only planning on scrambling, there is still lots of good info and overview in that book.

Many climbers are arrogant bastards, I know this because I've climbed with some of them, and read lots of crap in climbing magazines. But there's probably just as many cool people out there too! And yes, it's hard!

Answer 3

my suggestion is to practice some bouldering first. bouldering will help you learn technical moves. go to a rock-climbing gym to practice bouldering and you will find a lot of people eager to help you with the ropes.