Northern Ireland Outdoors Forum - Hiking, camping and more

General => General Chat => Topic started by: harveymt on April 17, 2013, 01:48:21 PM

Title: Big Mountains
Post by: harveymt on April 17, 2013, 01:48:21 PM
Has anyone here done a big mountain? Or thought about doing one? Seven Summits? Eight thousander etc?  Or even some very technical climb?
Title: Re: Big Mountains
Post by: nicm on April 17, 2013, 02:38:23 PM
I did a trip up Kilimanjaro in 1999 (with a tour company, Exodus maybe. Or Explore). Highest since has probably either been Toubkal (also guided) or Mulhacen. Haven't done anything technical, strictly walking.

I'd like to get up Mont Blanc but I don't have the skills, want to try to pick them up in the next few years, time and money permitting...
Title: Re: Big Mountains
Post by: twentyclicks on April 17, 2013, 05:14:38 PM
There is a thread here about everyones highest summits - 'who's the king of the castle?' or something like that.
I think Kili is the highest. Nothing that technical I don't think. I'd be up for something in the greater ranges, but don't have the money or time to develop my alpine skills let alone do an expedition yet.
Title: Big Mountains
Post by: Kayakgirl on April 17, 2013, 11:07:50 PM
Actually now thinking about it.. I was up in the Alps when I was a wain, Mont Blanc Glacier.. It certainly beats the Cairngorms lol
Title: Re: Big Mountains
Post by: whoRya on April 17, 2013, 11:43:55 PM
I'd like the thoughts of doing a big mountain, realistically I'm not sure it will happen.
Title: Re: Big Mountains
Post by: LandyLiam on April 18, 2013, 12:57:26 AM
I keep reading books that involve multiple tragedys on big mountains, that sort of puts me off a bit  :(  but if i had the right people with me i'd be up for it  :)

here's the "king of the castle" thread
http://www.ni-wild.co.uk/forum/general-chat/who%27s-the-king-of-the-castle/
Title: Re: Big Mountains
Post by: RedLeader on April 18, 2013, 09:20:43 AM
I've been doing a bit of that myself, it's really incredibly sad. Somewhere between losing your life and having the best experience of your life.
Not for the emotional...
http://altereddimensions.net/2012/dead-bodies-on-mount-everest

Quote from: LandyLiam on April 18, 2013, 12:57:26 AM
I keep reading books that involve multiple tragedys on big mountains, that sort of puts me off a bit  :(  but if i had the right people with me i'd be up for it  :)

here's the "king of the castle" thread
http://www.ni-wild.co.uk/forum/general-chat/who%27s-the-king-of-the-castle/
Title: Re: Big Mountains
Post by: Allyc on April 23, 2013, 12:16:42 AM
would love to try mont blanc . frm what I've read its not very technical . but people die trying it. and guides are very expensive .. but it looks amazing.
Title: Re: Big Mountains
Post by: GMB on April 23, 2013, 08:27:11 PM
One example of cost is €1000 based on two people to one guide. That would include:

- 5 days of private guiding
- group climbing equipment (ropes, karabiners etc)
- all transport in the Chamonix valley
- all expenses for your guides

You've a stack of other costs, flights, accomodation etc.

I'm going over next year to have a crack at it.
Title: Re: Big Mountains
Post by: Allyc on April 24, 2013, 10:55:45 PM
is that 1000 per person gmb ?
Title: Re: Big Mountains
Post by: twentyclicks on April 25, 2013, 08:43:29 AM
Quote from: Allyc on April 24, 2013, 10:55:45 PM
is that 1000 per person gmb ?

Yes, it would be. Alpine guides are around 250/300 euro a day. They can guide 6 people (typically this is the size of the group) for glacier work, but it is 1:2 once you get into the mountains, which will be most of the days. You will expect to pay extra for lifts/train (15-40euro /day), and the clients will also cover any costs of the guide (lift/hut/provide him/her lunch).
It's not a cheap place, but it is entirely worth it. The alps are mind-blowing.
Airport transfer from Geneva is typically 50euro return, arranged through your company (as they will have deals with certain providers).
I did a winter skills course through Icicle and it was first class.

I should still have their files on my computer about kit lists, fitness, and other preparation. PM me your email address if you want them.
Title: Re: Big Mountains
Post by: GMB on April 25, 2013, 02:46:35 PM
Icicle? I'll have to take a look at that. It's always good to hear positive reviews about different outfits.

As twentyclicks said, that's per person. Just an example though. Company is called 'Mountain Spirit' I think.