Category: Blog
Product Spotlight: MSR Access Tents
We periodically like to spotlight a product we really, really like- in this case, the MSR Access series of tents, reviewed & vetted in the field by our staff. The Quick Review – MSR Access 3 Tent The good: extremely light (sub-4 lbs.), extremely packable (disappears into a pack like a single-wall tent), extremely livable […]
Knots & Hitches: The Alpine Butterfly
The following is the first in a series of “how-to” videos on the major knots and hitches we use in the mountains. Stay tuned for more videos on knots like the figure-8, double-fisherman, ring bend- and hitches like the muenter & prussik! Most often used when clipping into the middle of a section of rope, […]
Which kind of stove should I bring?
When packing for a climbing trip or expedition, choosing a cooking system can be one of the most complicated aspects of planning. As we explored in Backcountry stoves 101, there are many options for kinds of stove to bring – but how do you decide which style is best for a given trip? Ultimately, the […]
Camp Chef: Spinach Gnocchi
Welcome to our new, recurring series- Camp Chef! In this series of posts, we will discuss cooking in the backcountry and highlight some of our favorite recipes to use in a variety of situations. We will focus on simple, easy, and nutritious recipes that have proven delicious in the mountain environment, and offer related tips […]
Camp Chef: The Tuna Melt
Welcome to our new, recurring series- Camp Chef! In this series of posts, we will discuss cooking in the backcountry and highlight some of our favorite recipes to use in a variety of situations. We will focus on simple, easy, and nutritious recipes that have proven delicious in the mountain environment, and offer related tips […]
Backcountry Stoves 101
Backcountry stove technology has come a long way in the last few years. While stoves are now lighter, more compact, and more efficient than ever, the multitude of choices a climber has when picking a stove to use for mountaineering can be daunting. Our resident gear junkie Matt has broken down the basic types of […]
Why do my trekking poles need snow baskets?
Staying Afloat in Mountain Snow For long-distance hiking or any significant climb in the mountains, trekking poles provide critical support and stability. We are often asked about the fact that we require snow baskets on trekking poles in any location where there will be travel in snowy terrain. Just like deep winter snow will swallow […]
Aconcagua: A Video Overview
We are incredibly excited to share this video from an Aconcagua climb early this year. This video features 3D-map overviews of our “up-and-over” climb of South America’s highest point, as well as superb views of the entire climbing route. Alpine Ascents would like to give a huge shout out to Chad, who shot and put […]
Product Spotlight: Low-Altitude Double Boot
Periodically we will talk about a piece of equipment that we feel is a crucial addition to any mountaineering kit. These are pieces which have proven themselves invaluable in the field based on real use, often honed over our years of experience living and working in the alpine environment. Traditionally, climbers have have had […]
Pulling an Expedition Sled
A common question we have from our course participants before they arrive for their trips is how to rig up an expedition sled to their pack. This technique is super useful for any of our Alaska programs – and is especially crucial on Denali. Matt Miller discusses this process below.
