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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.

Two climbers sit in the snow beneath the summit of Cho Oyu.

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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A group of kids hanging on the Tahoe Via Ferrata during a Kids Rock Climbing Camp in Lake Tahoe.

Lake Tahoe Kids Rock Climbing 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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A group of backpackers heading to climb Mount Shasta with Alpenglow Expeditions

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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A climber stands with his back facing to the camera with Cho Oyu, the sixth tallest mountain in the world, in the background.

The Practical Path: Climb 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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Climb or ski Mount Shasta with our professional Lake Tahoe mountain guides

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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Clients skiing down during a private backcountry ski guiding in lake tahoe with professional mountain guides

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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A group of mountaineering students during a Mount Shasta 5-day mountaineering course with Alpenglow Expeditions.

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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Learn Foundational Skills in Peru’s Cordillera Blanca

Situated amidst the rugged grandeur of the Peruvian Andes, the Cordillera Blanca is affectionately referred to in the climbing community as one of the most beautiful mountain ranges in the world. With a rich history dating back decades, the Blanca has been a focal point for climbers seeking to test themselves and grow as much as it has been a training ground for burgeoning mountaineers.
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Clients climbing up the ridge to Camp 3 on a guided Ama Dablam Expedition

Climbing Ama Dablam: Alpenglow’s Old Reliable

As one of the most distinct and recognizable peaks of the Khumbu region, Ama Dablam has time and again proved to be our favorite and most consistent climb in Nepal. At Alpenglow Expeditions, our Ama Dablam Rapid Ascent expedition is where every piece of our mission and vision comes together: consistency, efficiency, and unparalleled adventure. 
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