How to Climb Mount McKinley

Mount McKinley, also known as The Great One, is a huge mountain peak in Alaska. It is not only the highest peak in Alaska but also the highest in all of North America. Located in the center of Denali National Park, Mount McKinley reaches up to 20,320 feet high. At such an impressive height, it is quite a feat to climb. If you wish to do so, you need adequate training and proper supplies. Each year about 1,000 climbers attempt the trek and roughly 500 complete it.

Things You'll Need

• Warm clothes
• Climbing shoes
• Waterproof coat
• Water
• Backpack
• Dried fruit
• Nuts
• Energy bars

Instructions

1. Train for at least 2 months prior to your climb. At over 20,000 feet high, Mount McKinley is a challenge for any climber. If you are reasonably fit, begin training 6 to 8 weeks before your climb. If you are out of shape, start training 6 to 9 months prior to your climb. Aim for at least 60 minutes of cardiovascular exercise several times per week, and complete day-long hikes once a week.

2. Practice altitude climbs. Altitude adds a whole different dimension to exercise. If you aren't accustomed to exercising at high altitudes, you will have much more difficulty climbing Mount McKinley. Do several practice hikes where you are working at high altitude levels.

3. Exercise outdoors in cold conditions. Depending on the time of year you climb Mount McKinley, you'll likely experience cold, snowy weather. Condition yourself to climbing in such conditions.

4. Get a climbing partner. You should never attempt to climb Mount McKinley alone. Always have a climbing partner with you so one person can call for help if the other is injured.

5. Plan your route. The most commonly used route is east of West Buttress where people fly into the glacier airplane runway. Expert climbers may choose the Cassin Ridge route which involves challenging rock climbing. The Muldrow Glacier route is not a technically difficult climb, but it contains a long trek over a northern tundra.

6. Be aware that climbing Mount McKinley takes 3 weeks. Some days may be spent waiting for weather changes. If a storm occurs, you have to wait for it to pass before continuing your climb.

7. Bring proper climbing equipment. You'll need proper climbing shoes, weatherproof clothes and warm layers. Bring a backpack filled with plenty of water and high-energy food. Protein bars, dried fruits and nuts are all good fuel sources. You'll also need a tent and a warm sleeping bag.

Tips & Warnings

• Hire a climbing guide to lead you through your trek.

• Do not climb Mount McKinley if you are not in good health.