(01-27-2024, 11:42 AM)Sneakers Wrote:

(01-27-2024, 09:10 AM)flsprtsgod Wrote: The suggestion has always been to initially scale the smaller peak so that the muscles are well stretched and warmed up for the challenge of the larger and fuller mountain. For less capable climbers this also has the benefit of giving an honest evaluation of the climber's endurance, as younger and less experienced climbers are sometimes known to exert all their pent up energies on the lower slopes of the range. Of course, for those who are taking a once in a lifetime excursion, the thought of YOLO and the allure of attacking the largest peak immediately will override the sensibility of a slow and meticulous climb.

I prefer to do my climbing in the winter.  Regardless of mountain size, the peaks are always most spectacular in the chilly air.  There's also a certain allure in rainy conditions, although the visual impact of cold and dripping wet may be a bit overwhelming for beginners, causing them to prematurely sprint to the finish.  Eventually, with greater experience, they will discover a prolonged journey only enhances arrival at the summit and bringing a can of whipped cream for refreshments is never a bad plan.

For the longest time, I was not in a position to climb the peaks.  Nor did I even want to.  After making some changes in my lifestyle, I have found it to be quite pleasurable getting back out there to climb some of the peaks out there. Although I thoroughly enjoy the whole landscape.  The valleys offer spectacular view. I’ve also found myself doing a lot more spelunking.   Plenty of landscapes to immerse yourself in.  I’ve had the pleasure of visiting a few of them recently.  Sure, I love the less beaten paths.  But those are often harder to find and cost a little more to get to.  I’ve also had lots of fun at some of the more traveled sites.  Sure, some of them may have had someone carve their name on the back of a bench in the past..other graffiti.  But I also find they can be just as fun sometimes even more fun.

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