SummitPost.org

Hi All,

I've always been relatively interested in hiking and being in the mountains, but this year I want to get more serious about it. My buddy and I want to plan a trip to climb Kings Peak (We live in Bountiful, UT), but other than being in good physical conditioning we don't have much knowledge of mountaineering.

So my question for everyone is, other than Summitpost.org, what are some other good resources I can look into to get started mountaineering the correct and safest way?

Thanks!

Trevor Cave

Being in Bountiful helps. You have a wide array of hiking trails and climbs up above 10K and 11K, all close by to you. Just start hiking as many as you can. Build up endurance and strength, plus gain a sense of your typical speed and performance.

Kings Peak is a long hike, nothing worse than rock hopping near the summit. If you can hike a 12-mile route near your home in about 6 hours and still feel pretty good, then you can probably graduate to a 32-mile 2 or 3-day hike to and from Kings without difficulty.

Part of what you'll learn is good decision making. The weather can go south fast, or you may be lagging at high elevation. So back off and try again in the future.

Freedom of the Hills is a great resource. Mountain project.com as well. Finding an experienced mentor or club is the best.

I'm looking at Utah Mountain Adventures in terms of mentorship, but where should I go to join a club?

Look into the American Alpine Club. They offer great classes and resources.

Someone mentioned Freedom of the Hills - an absolute necessity.

Have fun!

Did you already read Alpinism 101 - An Introduction?

For Kings Peak I'd recommend focusing on routefinding skills. As others have said, not technical and just a scramble. But once you get beyond Gunsight Pass there's a whole lot of open expanse and potential to misinterpret the route...especially if the weather turns on you.