Stories: International

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.

Climb Cho Oyu Before Climbing Everest
When it comes to climbing Everest, experience matters. Not just general mountain experience, but specific, targeted exposure to what it actually feels like to live and perform above 7,000 meters. That’s why Adrian Ballinger—founder of Alpenglow Expeditions and veteran of 14 Everest seasons—encourages nearly every aspiring Everest climber to summit an 8,000-meter peak first.
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Adrian Ballinger Argues for Sweeping Change on Everest: Nepal-Side Summits Are Becoming ‘Unethical’
Every year, more climbers die trying to reach Mount Everest’s summit via the southern route through Nepal. A prominent alpinist says China’s northern side offers more safety.
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How to Climb Mt. Everest
Climbing Everest doesn’t start in the Himalaya. It starts with basic skills, local mountains, and building experience one step at a time. If you’re asking how to climb Everest the right way — safely, successfully, and confidently — this is the path we recommend.
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Discover the Heart of the Andes: Alpenglow Expeditions’ Peru Climbing School
The Peru Climbing School is Alpenglow’s most immersive introductory expedition—anyone can join us to climb Yanapaccha (17,913’/5,460m) and Pisco (18,871’/5,752m). We chose the Cordillera Blanca because its allure lies in its diversity, from gentle slopes offering stunning vistas to challenging, unforgiving climbs that test the limits of even the most seasoned adventurers.
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Chile Volcanoes vs. Patagonia: Which Ski Expedition is Right for You?
If you’re looking for a ski adventure that goes beyond resort boundaries, South America delivers in a big way. Alpenglow Expeditions offers two unique trips—Volcanoes of Chile and Patagonia Backcountry Ski Expedition—both packed with huge terrain, world-class ski mountaineering, and cultural experiences that make the journey as memorable as the skiing itself. But which one is right for you? Let’s break it down.
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Comparing Acclimatization Approaches in the Andes, Himalaya, and Pamirs: How Alpenglow Expeditions Tailors Its Programs for Success
When it comes to climbing high-altitude peaks around the world, how you acclimatize can make or break an expedition. The Andes, Himalaya, and Pamir ranges each present unique challenges based on altitude, terrain, and logistics — and acclimatizing properly to these environments requires an approach that fits the mountain, not a one-size-fits-all plan.
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Deep Powder, Steep Lines, and Untouched Terrain: Why Andermatt is Every Skier’s Dream
If you’re looking for the ultimate ski adventure, Andermatt, Switzerland, should be at the top of your list. With its dramatic high-alpine terrain, untouched powder, and legendary descents, this Swiss ski destination offers an unparalleled experience for skiers seeking both challenge and beauty.
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Climbing Pequeño Alpamayo: A Hidden Gem in Bolivia
Climbing Pequeño Alpamayo: A Hidden Gem in Bolivia
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Why Guided Skiing in Switzerland Elevates Your Experience
Skiing in Switzerland is legendary, but to truly unlock the best terrain, maximize safety, and get the most out of every run, skiing with an expert guide makes all the difference. Whether you’re chasing powder, exploring complex backcountry routes, or simply looking for the best experience possible, having one of Alpenglow Expeditions’ IFMGA-certified pros takes your trip to the next level.
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Reaching New Heights: How You Can Climb Cho Oyu with the Right Preparation
On Cho Oyu, the world’s sixth-highest peak, climbers must battle frigid temperatures, unpredictable weather, and the physiological effects of high-altitude living. Success in this environment requires not just physical preparedness but also mental resilience, specialized gear, and the ability to adapt to rapidly changing conditions.
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