Stories
Mountain adventures create the best stories, and we want to share some of ours with you. Dive into Alpenglow Stories to stay up to date on expeditions in the field, read blogs, and get tips and tricks from guides.
Climbing Aconcagua: Changes Adrian Ballinger Has Seen Over the Years
Alpenglow owner and founder Adrian Ballinger started guiding and climbing Aconcagua in the late 1990s, around the same time that high-altitude mountaineering saw a massive surge in popularity around the world. However, regulations, ethics, and best practices in the mountaineering world failed to keep pace with the growth of the sport.
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Is Ama Dablam Your Next Step?
In the heart of the Everest region of Nepal is Ama Dablam, one of the Khumbu’s most iconic peaks. Its name translates to “Mother’s Necklace,” named after the large hanging serac adjacent to the Southwest Ridge. But beyond its aesthetic allure, to climb Ama Dablam is a challenging undertaking. For those who are looking for a more technical challenge and an all-encompassing Himalayan experience, it presents an enticing question: Is Ama Dablam the next step for you?
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How Technical is Cho Oyu?
Climbing Cho Oyu, the sixth highest mountain in the world at 26,906′/8,201m, presents a unique blend of adventure and technical skill, making it a perfect first 8000m peak experience. Aspiring mountaineers often wonder about the difficulty level and technical requirements of Cho Oyu. Let’s delve into the intricacies of tackling Cho Oyu’s formidable terrain.
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What’s In A Mt. Shasta Guide’s Pack?
As the Mt. Shasta season begins in earnest, we’re here to provide you with info from AMGA-Certified Ski Guide Isaac Laredo about what he brings in his pack for a 2-Day Avalanche Gulch climb on Mt. Shasta.
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Learn About the Alpenglow Kids Camp
If you’re seeking an exciting outdoor adventure for your kids, look into the Kids Rock Climbing Camp!Designed for ages 8 to 17, this camp introduces kids to the world of rock climbing, hiking, and outdoor skills in a secure and supportive setting.
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Mt. Shasta Conditions Update – April 2024
Thinking about a Mt. Shasta summit climb this season? Alpenglow guide Tim Dobbins came back with reports of fantastic snow conditions on the mountain during a guided climb on Mt. Shasta. Here are Tim’s notes: The mountain is “absolutely plastered” with snow, with a snowpack far exceeding annual averages.
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The Practical Path: Cho Oyu Before Everest
For ambitious mountaineers eyeing the world’s tallest peaks, the decision to tackle Everest is a monumental one. At Alpenglow Expeditions, we require that our Everest team members have prior experience on at least one 8,000-meter peak before joining an Everest expedition, and we almost always recommend Cho Oyu as a stepping stone. Here’s why climbing Cho Oyu first makes practical sense.
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A Brief History of Mt. Shasta
Mount Shasta, a pinnacle of beauty and grandeur in Northern California’s landscape, boasts a history as intriguing as its rugged slopes. From its volcanic birth to indigenous reverence to challenges faced by early climbers, the mountain’s story is one of geological wonder and human endeavor. Today, it’s a place revered by countless climbers, skiers, and those who simply admire the mountain’s natural beauty.
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The Art of Timing: Guiding The Spring Skiing Capital
When it comes to spring skiing in Tahoe, timing is everything. As the sun rises higher in the sky and temperatures fluctuate throughout the day, the snow conditions on the mountain can change dramatically. Understanding these fluctuations and knowing when to hit the slopes is crucial for maximizing your skiing experience. That’s where going with a guide can make all the difference.
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Mount Shasta Spring Trips with Alpenglow Expeditions
It may not feel like spring yet in Northern California, but the season is slowly starting to shift away from winter. Alpenglow Expeditions has just recently opened its books for climbing, mountaineering, and skiing trips up Mount Shasta.
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