We take a look at the new Tikka 5 range of headlamps from Petzl
COROS VERTIX 2 GPS Adventure Watch review
Jon Doran reports on the latest outdoor GPS watch from COROS
Petzl IKO CORE review
The radical new IKO CORE headtorch looks like nothing else out there – well it does, it looks a bit like a Klingon battle cruiser in miniature – but not like any other headtorch…
Promoted Feature: Time Outdoors Is Time Well Spent – Marloe Watch Company
Why do the traditional mechanical timepieces of Marloe Watch Company attract outdoor users? We talk to ‘superfan’ Alan Lewis to find out…
First Look: Leki Black Series Micro Vario Carbon trekking poles £194.95
The new for spring 2019 Leki Black Series Micro Vario Carbon trekking poles, MVC for short, cost almost £200 per pair. That’s a cool £50 than the standard version of the pole and well over twice as expensive as a lightweight Leki alloy pole that weighs only slightly more…
Petzl SWIFT RL Headtorch review
Jon Doran tests a new rechargeable all-round headtorch that uses Petzl’s Reactive Lighting technology…
The Big Question: How do I choose the right headtorch?
How bright does your headtorch need to be? USB rechargeable or normal batteries? What about beam patterns? How much burn time do you really need?
Satmap Active 20 GPS UK Platinum review
Jon Doran tries out a rugged, all-season, outdoors-specific GPS unit running Ordnance Survey mapping…
The big question: GPS unit, Smartphone app or GPS watch?
What’s your best option for an outdoors GPS unit?…
The Big Question: What type of water filter do I need?
Which water filter is best suited to your needs? Jon Doran takes a look at the different types that are currently available…
Success on Aconcagua for Trek & Mountain readers
On 31st January 2015 at 3.30pm the Trek & Mountain Aconcagua 2015 reader expedition achieved success by putting two team members on the summit, with all other team members reaching 6000m in deteriorating conditions. The expedition, sponsored by Haglofs and Powertraveller, began with a trek up the Horcones Valley near Mendoza, Argentina, to Aconcagua Base Camp at 4,300m. From here …
Climb Aconcagua with Trek & Mountain Expeditions!
After two successful reader expeditions to Kilimanjaro (Western Breach) and Mt Elbrus (traverse) in 2013, we’re pleased to announce our next expedition that you, our readers, can join – and this time we’ve chosen the highest peak outside of the Himalaya… ACONCAGUA! On 15th January 2015, 12 Trek & Mountain readers will leave the UK for an attempt to summit …
Mont Blanc Italian Route
For a more ‘off-the-beaten-track’ experience on Mont Blanc, the Italian Route via the Gonella Hut takes some beating, says IFMGA Guide Ben Tibbetts
Preparing for glacial crossing
Preparation for glacier crossing should be meticulously prepared and rehearsed, so that no time is wasted either setting up the basic moving-together system or any of the techniques that may subseqently follow…
Ski mountaineering – packing your bag part 1
Here Mark is looking at what you should pack for a day out ski-touring in the Scottish hills.
Testing the snow pack
There are a number of tests that can be done to assess the state of the snow. None of these should be taken in isolation, but used to help build up a picture of what the snow conditions in that immediate area are likely to be…
Clove hitch
This is an extremely useful knot, and it is used throughout all areas of mountaineering. Its simplicity of tying, allied with its ease of adjustment, make it ideal to secure yourself to an anchor system. It can also be tied with one hand, a useful property when needing to arrange an anchor whilst holding on to the rock or an ice axe for security…
A Beginner’s Guide to Backcountry Ski Touring
With more and more of us exploring the winter mountains on skis, Sophie Nicholson examines the appeal of backcountry skiing and advises on how you can do it too
Kingsley Jones: Alpine Diary, part 7 – Land of Rock and Fire
You’d be excused for thinking this was a blog about Iceland, with a title of ‘Land of Rock and Fire’, but no, it’s a Chamonix and alpine conditions update!
‘The Dawn Wall’ trailer
In January, 2015, American rock climbers Tommy Caldwell and Kevin Jorgeson captivated the world with their effort to climb The Dawn Wall, a seemingly impossible 3,000 foot rock face in Yosemite National Park, California.
Best of British – 20 Epic Mountain Adventures To Do This Year
As the prospects for global travel in the coming months remain uncertain, Rebecca Coles suggests 20 epic homegrown mountain adventures to keep us busy during the year ahead…
Ultimate gifts for trekkers and mountaineers!
Find the perfect gift for the trekker or mountaineer in your life with the Trek & Mountain Festive Gift Guide… MONTANE HI-Q LUXE JACKET £170 Montane’s brand new Hi-Q Luxe Jacket delivers lightweight, highly compressible micro baffle mountain insulation to handle winter’s toughest challenges. It uses new, innovative PrimaLoft Gold Insulation Luxen which blends millions of water repellent PrimaLoft ultra- fine …
Is Social Media killing adventure?
Is the popularity of Facebook, Twitter et al a good or bad thing for the outdoors? Sophie Nicholson investigates… When Tommy Caldwell and Kevin Jorgesen made the first free ascent of the Dawn Wall in Yosemite in January this year, they succeeded in making more than just climbing history. Over the course of 19 days spent on the wall, …
Win a Haglöfs Vojd jacket worth £600!
Winter is a testing time for your outdoor clothing, with the demand for weather protection being balanced with user comfort and breathability to cope with the exertions of ski touring or mountaineering. With this in mind, Haglöfs have introduced the Vojd Jacket for the 2014/2015 season. Developed in association with the late and legendary ski mountaineer Andreas Fransson, the Vojd …
Competition: Meet Ueli Steck and win his Mountain Hardwear Torsun Jacket!
How would you like to interview one of the biggest ever mountaineering stars? You could also walk away wearing the jacket he uses and a couple of tickets to the Kendal Mountain Festival! Ueli Steck, one of the greatest alpinists alive today, invites you to lunch! Well-known for his almost unbelievable speed ascent of Annapurna’s legendary South Face in only …
Competition: Win a limited-edition Sprayway Grendel or Vela Jacket!
Only 400 of these limited edition jackets exist, and we have both a men’s and women’s model to give away this month! This very special, limited-edition jacket from Sprayway has been made to celebrate the brand reaching 40 years of keeping hillwalkers and mountaineers warm, dry and comfortable. The vibrant blue and green colour scheme is a nod to an …
Win £1000 of The North Face gear + Mountain Leader training at Glenmore Lodge!
Trek & Mountain, in partnership with The North Face, Ellis Brigham Mountain Sports and Glenmore Lodge, are offering two lucky winners the chance to win training towards their Summer Mountain Leader Award (SML) – plus £1000 worth of top equipment from The North Face. THE GEAR Our two winners will be able to browse The North Face range at their …
Win! Alan Hinkes' new 8000m book
Alan Hinkes, as we’re sure you all know, is the only Briton to have climbed all of the world’s 14 8,000m peaks and is the 15th person ever to do so. Odds are he has something to say about mountaineering worth reading then? In his new book, ‘8000 Metres: Climbing The World’s Highest Mountains’, he tells of his experiences of …
Win a Marmot Isotherm Hoody
Marmot’s new Isotherm Hoody uses the very latest in breathable insulating technology to give a versatile and comfortable layering piece. And we have not one – but two – of these great-looking jackets to give away. Lightweight, warm and breathable, the Isotherm Hoody pairs an abrasion-resistant Pertex Quantum fabric with a super-breathable mesh lining and is stuffed with the new …
WIN! Water-To-Go purifying bottles
A reliable supply of clean water when on a trek or expedition is vital, and the new Water-to-Go filter bottle makes it that little bit easier to keep topped up. Key to the Water-to-Go bottle are its filters which were developed at the behest of NASA and are constructed utilising nano technology. Nano alumina along with 33 % carbon and …
Berghaus co-founder Davison dies at 85
Gordon Davison, co-founder of outdoor brand Berghaus, has died aged 85. Gordon passed away on the evening of 24th June 2020, after having previously suffered a heart attack.
Man and 11-year-old daughter die in avalanche in French Alps
An avalanche in the Val d’Isere area has claimed the lives of a 43-year-old man and his 11-year-old daughter…
Nepal has record number of tourists in 2017
Tourism in Nepal is on the rise, a relief for those impacted by the fall in tourism after the 2015 earthquake…
The ‘world’s most expensive trek’ returns
The Great Himalaya Trail costs more than £20,000, takes five months to complete, goes on for 1,700km…
Haglöfs launch “world’s toughest” V series Down Jacket
Haglöfs have launched what they call “the world’s toughest down jacket”…
Trek & Mountain Xmas Gift Guide
Find the perfect gift for the trekker or mountaineer in your life with the Trek & Mountain Xmas Gift Guide…
Preparing for glacial crossing
Preparation for glacier crossing should be meticulously prepared and rehearsed, so that no time is wasted either setting up the basic moving-together system or any of the techniques that may subseqently follow…
Testing the snow pack
There are a number of tests that can be done to assess the state of the snow. None of these should be taken in isolation, but used to help build up a picture of what the snow conditions in that immediate area are likely to be…
Clove hitch
This is an extremely useful knot, and it is used throughout all areas of mountaineering. Its simplicity of tying, allied with its ease of adjustment, make it ideal to secure yourself to an anchor system. It can also be tied with one hand, a useful property when needing to arrange an anchor whilst holding on to the rock or an ice axe for security…
Expedition medicine, part 1
Dr Raj Joshi kicks off our series on medical matters for trekkers and mountaineers with a look at some pre-trip basics…
Gully climbing
The ascent of a gully will often be the first introduction to snow climbing for many mountaineers. By their very nature, gullies tend to take lines provided by natural breaks and seams in the cliffs, and these can often be at a reasonably easy angle. As such, many gullies are in the lower grades of climbing difficulty, and provide an excellent way for novices to start to learn about snow-craft, winter ropework and climbing skills…
Safety on a via ferrata circuit
Although it may feel that you are in a clinical environment, you need to keep your wits about you when going round the circuit, and knowing how to deal effectively with all possible hazards is essential…
How to take better outdoor photos, part 1
The world of photography has changed – digital cameras have removed the mystique from the ‘good old days’ of film photography where photographers had to wait often a week after they returned home to see the results. Now, everybody with a phone or pocket camera can take a photograph, instantly examine it, and take the shot again if it isn’t correct…
Figure-of-eight knot
This is an essential knot, and it can be tied in a number of ways. It is the main method that many people use when tying on to a harness, and when tied slightly differently it is a quick and effective method of tying on to anchors…
Knowledge: How to choose a rope
IFMGA Guide Alun Richardson runs through the different types of ropes available and what they are best suited for… The increasing popularity and diversification of climbing has led to a broader selection of climbing ropes, each with its own characteristics. This choice undoubtedly has benefits, but it can make it difficult to decipher what’s on offer and how it relates …
Using fixed lines, part 1
On big peaks it’s routine to make use of fixed lines (or ropes), but how do they work? In this series, Tim Mosedale explains the methods he uses when leading high-altitude expeditions… Whether you love or loathe the idea, a lot of the big mountains usually have sections of what we call ‘fixed ropes’ put in place to allow expedition …
Mont Blanc Italian Route
For a more ‘off-the-beaten-track’ experience on Mont Blanc, the Italian Route via the Gonella Hut takes some beating, says IFMGA Guide Ben Tibbetts
Preparing for glacial crossing
Preparation for glacier crossing should be meticulously prepared and rehearsed, so that no time is wasted either setting up the basic moving-together system or any of the techniques that may subseqently follow…
Clove hitch
This is an extremely useful knot, and it is used throughout all areas of mountaineering. Its simplicity of tying, allied with its ease of adjustment, make it ideal to secure yourself to an anchor system. It can also be tied with one hand, a useful property when needing to arrange an anchor whilst holding on to the rock or an ice axe for security…
Petzl SUM’TEC review
Will Harris tests out the latest version of Petzl’s versatile technical mountaineering axes.
Mountain Equipment Tupilak 37+ review
Mountain Equipment have set out to redefine the standard for alpine backpacks with their new Tupilak range – Will Harris tests out the 37+ model to see if they have achieved their goal…
Fjällräven Bergtagen range review
With their Bergtagen range Fjällräven have developed their first garments designed specifically for use in an alpine setting, with climbing, ski mountaineering and trekking in mind.
Lowe Alpine Ascent Superlight 30 review
As Lowe Alpine celebrate 50 years in the business in 2017, we check out their lightest ever alpine pack which is sure to delight alpinists far and wide with its clean, stripped-down design…
Scarpa Ribelle Mountain Tech OD review
‘Radical’, ‘futuristic’, ‘cutting edge’… we test out Scarpa’s latest lightweight mountaineering boot, the Ribelle Mountain Tech OD
Andy Kirkpatrick: ‘Big E (go)’
The other day a friend emailed me some questions aimed to help people wanting to head off on their own adventures, covering the often overlooked financial side of things as well how you find the gumption to go on one in the first place.
Andy Kirkpatrick: ‘Old School’
The other day I found an old book on my shelf when its tatty green spine caught my eye as I thumbed across the shelf looking for something else. Many times before I had passed it by, but this time my eyes fixed on it and my book blindness, caused by its ever-presence, suddenly lifted…
Andy Kirkpatrick: ‘Dehydrated’
I once went climbing with the comedian Ed Bryne, who told me he hated dehydrated food, because it tasted like shit “so I bought myself a dehydrator,” he said “so I could make my own food that tasted like shit”…
Andy Kirkpatrick: ‘Polar Poodles’
Don’t you just hate when someone brings you down to size. When someone bursts your bubble. I do it myself – in fact I relish in giving a kick to an overblown ego. My primary vehicle for this is the language of the extreme…
Andy Kirkpatrick: ‘Piteraq’
I climbed with a remarkable Norwegian last winter called Aleks Gamme, probably best know as the gnarly bloke from the film ‘Crossing the Ice’, in which he raced to be the first person to ski to and from the South Pole without support or kites (he sort of won)…
Arc’teryx Kragg, Sylan GTX and Vertex Alpine shoes
We test out three new technical shoes from Arc’teryx’s spring/summer 2024 range
Testing the snow pack
There are a number of tests that can be done to assess the state of the snow. None of these should be taken in isolation, but used to help build up a picture of what the snow conditions in that immediate area are likely to be…
Issue 25 – February 2012
Kili Summit Guide Rhys Jones of RJ7 Expeditions gives valuable advice on maximising your chances of summiting Kili Ama Dablam Jon Gupta and Bonita Norris give accounts of their recent (separate) climbs on this breathtakingly beautiful Himalayan peak Ben Nevis Top climber Kev Shields recounts his first winter climbing trip on Ben Nevis and explains how the experience helped change …
Issue 23 – December 2011
The John Muir Trail, the Haute Route, training for Antarctica, Scottish Winter Skills course, down jackets and 4-season sleeping bags on test, and much more in the December 2011 edition of Trek & Mountain… The John Muir Trail Mark Richardson recounts his 14-day ‘thru hike’ through California’s stunning Sierra Nevada range Training for Antarctica We catch up with the British …
Issue 22 – November 2011
Trekking in Peru, hiking Norway’s Mt Skala, French guides training week, alpine skills part 1, Everestmax expedition and much more in the November 2011 edition of Trek & Mountain…
Issue 21 – October 2011
Highs of South East Asia, Iceland’s Westfjords, Tour du Monte Rosa, IFMGA mountain guides, Introduction to Alpinism, and much more in the October 2011 edition of Trek & Mountain…
Lowe Alpine Altus 42:47 pack review
I’ve been using the Altus 42:47 ever since Lowe Alpine launched the pack last summer in the Austrian Alps and it’s rapidly become my default, ‘go to’, medium capacity mountain-walking pack…
Berghaus Fast Hike 45 review
Looking for a lightweight pack for multi-day hikes that is comfortable and offers plenty of storage? The Fast Hike 45 could be it, says Chris Kempster…
Berghaus MTN Seeker 32 mountain pack
We test out the smaller model in Berghaus’ new range of mountaineering packs
Exped Black Ice 30 review
We test out a waterproof technical daysack from Swiss brand Exped
Lightweight Backpacking Gear Guide
This month we team up with the experts at Ultralight Outdoor Gear for a look at all the essential kit you need to go lightweight backpacking…
Meet the designer: Lowe Alpine’s Dan Jenkin
We talk to Lowe Alpine pack designer Dan Jenkin about how he got into his line of work and what goes into creating all-new designs such as the latest Altus range…
Pack-buying tips from the designer
We’ve just spent a morning with Lowe Alpine pack designer Dan Jenkin, talking about his background and the story behind the brand’s packs, and we took the opportunity to ask him for his top 5 tips when it comes to deciding which pack you need.
Lowe Alpine Altus 42:47 pack review
I’ve been using the Altus 42:47 ever since Lowe Alpine launched the pack last summer in the Austrian Alps and it’s rapidly become my default, ‘go to’, medium capacity mountain-walking pack…
The BIG Question: What size pack do I need?
Something weird has happened to packs over the past few years, to put it simply, they’ve got smaller. Okay, so they haven’t exactly got smaller, it’s more that the capacity of pack that most of us need and are buying has got smaller…
First Look: Gregory Miwok 12 pack
New for spring 2019 from ‘the other’ US pack specialist, Gregory, the Miwok 12 is a lightweight, multi-sport all-rounder…
Osprey Mutant 22 review
Will Harris tries out the smallest model in the newly-revamped Mutant climbing pack range, but how does it compare with the competition?
Lowe Alpine Altus 42:47 review
When Lowe Alpine invited us out to the Austrian Alps a couple of months back for the mountain-hut launch of the new Altus range of packs, we were told they would be available in February 2019. Turns out though that you can buy them right now from the guys at Ellis Brigham.
Patagonia Capilene Cool Lightweight Tee review
The lightest version of Patagonia’s new Capilene Cool, hot-conditions baselayer collection uses an ultra-fast wicking and drying fabric to cope with hot, sweaty work when the going gets scorchio.
The Big Question: What’s the best baselayer?
Merino wool? Polyester? Polypropylene? A demented mixture of all three maybe? What’s the best baselayer fabric for you and what else do you need to know about baselayers?
‘Breaking 20’ – Running the UTMB in under 20 hours
The North Face team athlete and ultra runner Pau Capell has one mission in mind: run the 106-mile UTMB in under 20 hours
Polartec Family Album Photo Contest
Polartec are celebrating their 30th anniversary with their Family Album Photo Contest
All-Nepali team take the final steps to the summit of K2
Nepalese team at the summit of K2 in winter 2021
Arc’teryx Alpine Academy 2018 Trailer
The Arc’teryx Alpine Academy will be back in Chamonix, July 5 – 8, 2018. Clinic information can be found at chamonix.arcteryxacademy.com
Candide Thovex – Quattro 2
Candide and Audi partner up to Ski the World
Everest 2017 rescue from South Summit
Short documentary showing the rescue of Pakistani climber Abdul Jabbar Bhatti and Sonam Sherpa from the South Summit if Everest by Jangbu Sherpa’s team.
Kingsley Jones: Unlock(down)ing the Lake District
Lake District resident and mountain professional, Kingsley Jones, reflects on the past year and what the future holds for the National Park
Editor’s Blog: Welcome to issue 103…
T&M Editor Chris Kempster welcomes readers to issue 103, Mar/Apr 2021…
Editor’s Blog: Welcome to Issue 102…
T&M Editor Chris Kempster welcomes readers to issue 102, Jan/Feb 2021…
Kingsley Jones: Alpine Diary, part 8 – Chamonix: White Phoenix
After labelling 2018 as a black year for Chamonix in my previous blog post, there was a collective sense of nerves as the winter season approached…
Kingsley Jones: Alpine Diary, part 7 – Land of Rock and Fire
You’d be excused for thinking this was a blog about Iceland, with a title of ‘Land of Rock and Fire’, but no, it’s a Chamonix and alpine conditions update!
Kingsley Jones: Alpine Diary, part 6 – Summits, Snow and Sunburn
As a Canadian mountain guide pithily said after his stint of work in Chamonix, “I leave for Canada tomorrow, with my crampon points rounded, and my elbows sharpened”. His words were said in jest, sort of, but there’s quite an element of truth to them…
Andy Kirkpatrick: ‘Big E (go)’
The other day a friend emailed me some questions aimed to help people wanting to head off on their own adventures, covering the often overlooked financial side of things as well how you find the gumption to go on one in the first place.
Bolivian 3 Peaks Expedition – Illimani, Pequeno Alpamayo and Huayna Potosi
In 2017 Trek & Mountain returns to South America for an amazing trekking and mountaineering trip, and YOU could be on the team! The destination is Bolivia, and our objectives are threefold – Huayna Potosi (6,088m), Pequeno Alpamayo (5,410m) and the mighty Illimani (6,438m). The expedition will be led by Gavin Bate, head honcho at Adventure Alternative, one of the UK’s …
‘The Alpinist’ film review, by Tom Livingstone
Review of The Alpinist by Tom Livingstone
Stunning movie ‘The Alpinist’ coming to cinemas this September
Major film release ‘The Alpinist’ documents the life of Canadian climber Marc-Andre Leclerc
Everest the Film to relaunch with Polartec and Milliken as Global Sponsors
MacGillivray Freeman Films, the world’s foremost independent producer and distributor of original giant-screen 70mm films, will re-release its blockbuster giant-screen documentary Everest in February 2022…
Book review: “The Man Behind the Maps: Legendary Ski Artist James Niehues”
16th January 2021FacebookTwitterPrintemailNoone has commented on this article yet. Have your say…Filed under: News, Treks & Expeditions, K2 first winter ascent, Mingma G, Nims PurjaNews is coming in that a historic first winter ascent of K2 has been completed by an all-Nepali team, led by Mingma G and Nims Purja. According to high-altitude bogger Alan Arnette: “Around 5:00 pm on …
Book Review: ‘The Great Sea Cliffs of Scotland’
Will Harris reviews a lavishly-produced new book from Scottish Mountaineering Press
Book Review: ‘Crack Climbing’ by Pete Whittaker
Will Harris reviews Pete Whittaker’s superb new guide on the art and science of crack climbing
Book Review: ‘Alpenglow’ by Ben Tibbetts
Will Harris’s coffee table groans under the weight of this heavyweight guide to the alpine 4000ers from British Mountain Guide, photographer and illustrator, Ben Tibbetts…
Mountains on Stage Summer Edition 2018 film tour dates announced
Trek and Mountain is sponsoring the 2018 Summer Edition of Mountains on Stage as it travels across 40 cities in Europe…
Boardman Tasker Award shortlist announced
The shortlist for the 2016 Boardman Tasker Award for Mountain Literature has been announced, and includes books by Alex Honnold, Simon McCartney, Steve Olson, Mark Vallance and Robert Wainwright, Interest in the Boardman Tasker (BT) Award for Mountain Literature remains as great as ever and this year’s …
Banff Film Tour dates and films announced
The UK and Ireland Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour is now in its seventh edition, and the 2016 UK and Ireland leg of the Banff World Tour will be the largest Tour to date with more than 50,000 adventure lovers expected to gather together indoors to celebrate the outdoors with 85 screenings and 55 tour locations right across the UK and …
Reel Rock Tour set to kick off across UK
This year’s Reel Rock Tour is about to kick off with 14 screenings across the UK and Ireland. In its 10th year, Reel Rock 10 will once again bring a variety of adventure films to a worldwide audience, with the event taking place in over 450 locations across all seven continents. This year’s festival will feature films about Tommy Caldwell …
Shortlist for Boardman Tasker Prize announced
The shortlist for the prestigious Boardman Tasker Prize for Mountain Literature has been released, and it looks like 2015 could be a vintage year. This year’s judges – Robin Campbell, Graham Desroy and Terry Gifford – have chosen the following five books from the 36 entries received: ‘In Some Lost Place’ by Sandy Allen (Vertebrate Publishing) ‘Snowblind: Tales of Alpine …
Everest movie – 'Cliffhanger' or 'Touching The Void'?
The official trailer of the upcoming Hollywood movie ‘Everest’ was released recently and the big question of ‘will it be any good?’ got a bit closer to being answered. The film, starring Jason Clarke, Josh Brolin, Keira Knightley and Emily Watson among others, focuses on the 1996 disaster on the mountain and follows the summit attempts of the teams led by …
Kendal Mountain Festival announces headliners
Held every November in the Lake District, the Kendal Mountain Festival features hundreds of film screenings plus numerous speakers and guests. Festival organisers have revealed some of the big names that will make an appearance at the festival. Tommy Caldwell, who made headlines last year for free climbing the Dawn Wall with Kevin Jorgeson as well as the completion of …
Sir Chris Bonington climbs the Old Man of Hoy at 80
Sir Chris Bonington, legendary climber, mountaineer & first ascensionist, has proven that age does not have to be a barrier to strength and fitness. Led by British traditional climber, Leo Houlding, Sir Bonington defies age in his ascent of the famous sea stack. The Old Man of Hoy is revered by many, and is a classic sea cliff climb in …
Chamonix Adventure Festival launches new 2015 winter edition
For any aspiring adventure film makers, the opportunity to have your work screened at one of Europe’s best adventure film events is not to be missed! The Chamonix Adventure Festival film programme showcases the latest adventure and environmental films from across the world. Several nights of inspiring tales will be screened in Chamonix and Les Houches, with explorers, athletes & …
'Jeff Lowe's Metanoia' to be shown at Kendal Mountain Festival
Kendal Mountain Festival has secured the second public screening of ‘Jeff Lowe’s Metanoia’, a film about the life and times of the legendary US alpinist. Only two weeks ago, Jeff Lowe’s film was completed and premiered at Banff Mountain Festival on 2nd November. The film has been in production for several years, and to celebrate the screening, Jeff Lowe himself …
Lowe Alpine Mountain Marathon 2014 movie – watch it here!
Running Wild: 20 Years of the Lowe Alpine Mountain Marathon from Lowe Alpine on Vimeo. Last June, in one of the remotest locations in the UK, nearly 1,000 competitors gathered for the 20th Anniversary Lowe Alpine Mountain Marathon (LAMM) and a new film reveals just what a tough event this is. The LAMM is a two-day mountain orienteering competition …
Parrot Anafi
With its low weight and foldable arms, could Parrot’s new Anafi be the best drone yet for capturing action in the mountains? Chris Kempster takes it for a flight to find out…
DJI Mavic Pro review
One of my biggest regrets is having an insufficient camera (cost £60) when sailing the Northwest Passage and not having the adequate means to capture a personal record of what I saw. I lost count of encounters with polar bears, artic foxes, whales and all this alongside spectacular Arctic scenery.
Best Lightweight Down Sleeping Bags 2023
We try out eight of the best lightweight down sleeping bags on the market today
First Look: Sierra Designs Meteor 3000
A two-person tent built for UK conditions and featuring a spacious, freestanding design – Chris Kempster goes wild (camping) for the latest product from California-based Sierra Designs…
Hilleberg Anaris review
Hilleberg just released their first trekking pole-supported tent since 1973. RICHARD HARTFIELD tests how it stands up against the new generation of lightweight backpacking shelters…
Lightweight Backpacking Gear Guide
This month we team up with the experts at Ultralight Outdoor Gear for a look at all the essential kit you need to go lightweight backpacking…
Sea to Summit Ether Light XT Insulated Mat review
Jon Doran tries out a warm, comfortable and decently light sleeping mat from Sea to Summit…
The Big Question: Should I get a down or synthetic sleeping bag?
If you’re in the market for a new sleeping bag, there’s one obvious big question: do you opt for natural down filling or a synthetic alternative?
Deuter Exosphere 0˚C Sleeping Bag review
Jon Doran tries out an unusual synthetic-filled sleeping bag with a gently body-hugging stretch seam construction that really does up both comfort and efficiency – if you’re a restless outdoors sleeper, this could be the bag for you.
How to choose a sleeping bag
Here’s the thing. No-one ever really regretted a sleeping bag that was slightly too warm, but there’s nothing more miserable than shivering all night in a bag that’s simply not warm enough…
Rab Mythic 200/400/600 review
We test out the new range of Rab Mythic sleeping bags, which offer superb warmth-to-weight performance
Vaude Hogan SUL 1-2P review
The Hogan SUL 1-2P is based on a tried-and-tested configuration that has been used by Vaude for a number of years on tents such as the Taurus and Terratrio, namely one pole running lengthwise down the spine of the tent and one pole crossing at the entrance to form a vestibule at one end.
The Canadian Rockies
The Canadian Rockies provide what is perhaps the most extensive collection of quality ice climbs in the world, with the added bonus that the consistently cold temperatures that chill the entire mountain range mean that there is guaranteed to be ice to climb every season.
Cathy O’Dowd: ‘What are you doing next?’
“What are you doing next?” I hate that question. I know why you ask. I’ve asked it myself, talking to climbers or adventurers I admire, and winced inwardly as I heard the words tumble out of my mouth…
Cathy O’Dowd: “New Year’s Resolutions – Use your feet!”
Everything in our culture tells us to look forward, reach upwards, eye on the prize, visualise the path to success, shoot for the moon. No day is more imbued with this vision than the first of the new year, when we embark on the cultural ritual of the New Year’s Resolution.
Cathy O’Dowd: ‘Have you hashtagged your #adventure today?’
#Adventure has been used over 45 million times on Instagram, a platform that hasn’t yet reached its tenth birthday. With every year that the hashtag replicates exponentially, our experience of adventure becomes safer and tamer…
6 Of The Best: Ice Axes
In the market for a new ice axe, or pair of technical tools? Will Harris chooses size models for six different mountain activities – here are his picks…
Petzl Fly harness review
Will Harris puts Petzl’s lightest ever harness through its paces
Petzl Tibloc 2 review
Kevin Avery tries out the new version of the Tibloc…
6 Of The Best: Crampons
Will Harris chooses six crampons for six different occasions, from ice climbing to winter walking…
Petzl SUM’TEC review
Will Harris tests out the latest version of Petzl’s versatile technical mountaineering axes.
Petzl Grigri+ review
With the Grigri+, Petzl have fine-tuned their perennially-popular assisted- braking belay device, making it even easier to use for less experienced climbers.
Grivel Stealth Helmet review
Paul Smith tests out the latest lightweight helmet from Grivel
Outdoor Show 2014 highlights: Salomon S-Lab X Alp Carbon GTX
Trek & Mountain has just returned from the massive Outdoor show in Friedrichshafen, Germany, where the outdoor industry shows off its upcoming ranges for spring/summer 2015
Black Diamond Vapor review
Kathryn James tries out Black Diamond’s lightest-ever helmet
Berghaus MTN Seeker 32 mountain pack
We test out the smaller model in Berghaus’ new range of mountaineering packs
Exped Black Ice 30 review
We test out a waterproof technical daysack from Swiss brand Exped
Osprey Mutant 22 review
Will Harris tries out the smallest model in the newly-revamped Mutant climbing pack range, but how does it compare with the competition?
Mountain Equipment Tupilak 37+ review
Mountain Equipment have set out to redefine the standard for alpine backpacks with their new Tupilak range – Will Harris tests out the 37+ model to see if they have achieved their goal…
Lowe Alpine Ascent Superlight 30 review
As Lowe Alpine celebrate 50 years in the business in 2017, we check out their lightest ever alpine pack which is sure to delight alpinists far and wide with its clean, stripped-down design…
ePE: GORE-TEX’s quiet fabric revolution
Jon Doran reports from a recent event focused on Gore-Tex’s new ePE membranes
Montane Icarus Jacket featuring PrimaLoft Thermoplume insulation
The new version of the Montane Icarus Jacket has some clever tricks up its sleeves
First Look: Rab Khroma Collection
We take a look at Rab’s first ever skiing apparel range, the Khroma collection…
Arc’teryx Gamma SL Hoody Men’s review
We test a summer-weight softshell jacket from the Canadian uber brand Arc’teryx…
Montane Protium Hoodie review
We test a new fleece midlayer from Montane in the Scottish Highlands….
Lightweight Backpacking Gear Guide
This month we team up with the experts at Ultralight Outdoor Gear for a look at all the essential kit you need to go lightweight backpacking…
First Look: Mammut Rime Light Flex Hooded Jacket, Crater Hooded Jacket & Ducan Pro High GTX Boot
Jon Doran tries out three of Mammut’s new autumn/winter products to see if the Swiss brand’s ‘Absolute Alpine’ ethos translates into damp British conditions…
Patagonia Macro Puff Hoody review
Jon Duran tests a new jacket from Patagonia that combines the warmth-to-weight ratio of high-loft down, but the water-resistance of heavier synthetic filled jackets…
The Big Question: Has Synthetic Insulation finally caught up with Down?
It was a sort of outdoor industry pipe-dream: a synthetic fill that was a light and warm and compressible as down, but didn’t collapse in the face of rain. Is that dream finally a reality, asks Jon Doran?
First look: Rab Ladakh GTX Jacket review
Jon Doran tries out an all-round waterproof mountain shell with helmet hood that’ll cope with anything from UK mountain walking through to the Alps and beyond…
Maps International
Maps International creates stunning maps with a strong focus on design. They are the perfect addition to any home or office, or to take with you on your next travel adventure.
Edelweiss
Edelweiss has accompanied the pioneers of mountaineering and climbing by making ropes to match their ambitions.
Lorpen
Spanish company Lopen produces some of the most advanced and technical socks in the industry and have been doing so since the 1980’s.
Grivel
In 1818 the Grivel family of blacksmiths started to transform their production of agricultural tools to satisfy the rather peculiar demands of a new breed of wealthy tourists who, for unfathomable reasons, wanted to climb mountains! And so, the Grivel Ice Axe and Crampons came into being.
Sea To Summit
The rich and rugged landscape of Australia reflects the nature of Sea To Summit. Making a host of items and accessories to equip you for wild coastlines, rivers, forests, cliffs, and mountains.
Deuter
From postbags to mountain peaks, Deuter has been creating bags for over 100 years. A market leader in Hiking, Mountaineering, Travel, and Bike packs, Deuter has redefined the rucksack market with its back-system technologies and use of quality materials.
Scarpa
SCARPA, literally the Italian for ‘shoe’. Footwear innovation and tradition share equally deep roots at Scarpa, which today remains a family-owned company with its headquarters and performance footwear manufacturing facilities in the same regions of northern Italy where it all started in 1938.
Satmap
The Satmap brand is about delivering outstanding digital mapping solutions to serious Outdoor folk. Great mapping is our first priority, followed by superb GPS performance on robust and durable hardware.
Petzl
Petzl designs and manufactures tough, reliable products with maximum versatility for all vertical terrain: climbing, mountaineering, ice climbing, etc. By being at the heart of these activities, Petzl have accumulated a wide range of experience that today directly benefits the entire line of Petzl products.
WIN! One of 10 GP Batteries BEAM PR52 rechargeable torches worth £69.99 each
In this week’s big competition we have 10 of the latest rechargeable torches from GP Batteries up for grabs, offering more power and longer run time than traditional torches.
Win winter training and £500 of kit from Rab!
The T&M Scottish Winter Weekend, in association with Rab, Lowe Alpine and Polartec combines winter mountaineering instruction during the day and social activities in the evenings. This year’s weekend is now sold out, but we have one last place on the weekend to give away… thanks to event sponsors Rab. THE COURSES Our lucky winner will be able to choose …
Win a Quick Screw!
We recently travelled to Germany to try out the latest climbing innovation from Salewa, the brilliantly-named Quick Screw (so named because it combines an ice screw and a quickdraw) and now we have five of these cutting-edge ice screws to give away! So what exactly does the Quick Screw do? This is our Web Editor, Joe Innes’, take on the …
Win a Millet Trilogy Down Tek Hoodie
Millet is the choice of the Guides Company of Chamonix, and in fact the Guides are an integral part of the testing process and development of Millet’s product range. Trilogy is the name given to Millet’s top-of-the-range pieces, and they take their inspiration from the winter ascents by Eric Escoffier in the 1980s of the three major north faces in …
Win a Haglöfs Vojd jacket worth £600!
Winter is a testing time for your outdoor clothing, with the demand for weather protection being balanced with user comfort and breathability to cope with the exertions of ski touring or mountaineering. With this in mind, Haglöfs have introduced the Vojd Jacket for the 2014/2015 season. Developed in association with the late and legendary ski mountaineer Andreas Fransson, the Vojd …
Competition: Meet Ueli Steck and win his Mountain Hardwear Torsun Jacket!
How would you like to interview one of the biggest ever mountaineering stars? You could also walk away wearing the jacket he uses and a couple of tickets to the Kendal Mountain Festival! Ueli Steck, one of the greatest alpinists alive today, invites you to lunch! Well-known for his almost unbelievable speed ascent of Annapurna’s legendary South Face in only …
Competition: Win a limited-edition Sprayway Grendel or Vela Jacket!
Only 400 of these limited edition jackets exist, and we have both a men’s and women’s model to give away this month! This very special, limited-edition jacket from Sprayway has been made to celebrate the brand reaching 40 years of keeping hillwalkers and mountaineers warm, dry and comfortable. The vibrant blue and green colour scheme is a nod to an …
Win £1000 of The North Face gear + Mountain Leader training at Glenmore Lodge!
Trek & Mountain, in partnership with The North Face, Ellis Brigham Mountain Sports and Glenmore Lodge, are offering two lucky winners the chance to win training towards their Summer Mountain Leader Award (SML) – plus £1000 worth of top equipment from The North Face. THE GEAR Our two winners will be able to browse The North Face range at their …
WIN KEEN Durand Mid WP hiking boots!
In this month’s competition, we have THREE pairs of KEEN’s fantastic Durand Mid WP boots worth £139.99 (each) to give away – read on to find out how YOU could walk away with a pair… For comfort and style, KEEN walking shoes and boots have always been hard to beat, but with the new Durand Mid WP the brand …
Win an Edelweiss rope and rope bag!
In this month’s competition, we have two ropes from Edelweiss to give away, plus a ropebag for each of the lucky winners. The Edelweiss Performance Unicore 9.2 rope is a versatile rope that you can use for almost all your mountain activities; from alpine and winter mountaineering, to sport climbing and ice climbing. You can also pair it with another …
WIN a pair of tickets to Base Camp Festival 2025!
A chance to win yourself two tickets to next year’s Base Camp Festivall
WIN! a Gregory Stout 70 or Amber 68 pack worth £200
Win a superb Gregory trekking pack in this month’s big competiton
WIN! a Grüezi bag 185 DownWool Subzero sleeping bag worth £340
Up for grabs in our latest competition is a top-quality sleeping bag from Gruezi bag
WIN! a Biolite CampStove Complete Cook Kit worth £259
Win a top-notch cooking set-up courtesy of Biolite
WIN! One of 2 Petzl Eashook Via Ferrata sets worth £240 each
A chance to win one of two Petzl Eashook via ferrata sets we have up for grabs
WIN! Tickets to Ellis Brigham’s Explore Weekend + £500 of Rab gear
Win tickets to Ellis Brigham’s Explore Weekend plus £500 of Rab gear
WIN! A Gregory Alpinisto LT 28 pack worth £140
Enter for the chance to win Gregory’s technical mountain pack
WIN a Rab Mythic Ultra Down Jacket worth £380!
Win an awesome Rab Mythic Ultra Down Jacket in this month’s big competition
WIN! The North Face Torre Egger Jacket and Pant worth £985
The North Face Torre Egger Jacket and Pant up for grabs
An Teallach to receive £100,000 for path repair
An Teallach to receive a grant of £100k towards path repair
BMC announces major climate initiative
The British Mountaineering Council (BMC) has launched a major new campaign to promote the health of the UK’s wild moorland areas in order to combat climate change
Patagonia launch campaign to protect Balkan rivers
Patagonia have launched their biggest ever European conservation campaign, “Save The Blue Heart of Europe”, with a website and petition to protect Europe’s last wild rivers from devastating hydropower projects.
Corsica GR20
The GR 20 is a long-distance trail that runs roughly north-south along the spine of Corsica. It has been described as ‘Europe’s toughest trek’ and came in at number 8 in Trek & Mountain’s Top 100 Treks poll.
Tour du Mont Blanc
The Tour du Mont Blanc, which takes hikers on a spectacular circuit of Western Europe’s highest peak, is one of the best long-distance treks in the world and ranks at number 3 in Trek & Mountain’s Top 100 Treks poll.
Denali (Mt McKinley)
The highest peak in North America, Denali is an awe-inspiring hulk of a mountain set in the stunningly beautiful Alaskan wilderness.
Ama Dablam
Often judged to be one of the world’s most beautiful mountains, Ama Dablam stands proud from its Himalayan neighbours, an austere pyramid of rock and ice.
North Wales
There are few areas that have as large a quantity of diverse climbing venues in such a small geographical area as North Wales. From adventurous sea cliff climbing to bolted limestone sport routes, through multi-pitch mountain missions to steep roadside bouldering, all can be easily accessed within an hour from the central mountain town of Llanberis.
Peak District
The Peak District is home to the UK’s oldest national park and is steeped in climbing history, with some of the World’s earliest recorder rock climbs established on its crags and the legacy of the Kinder Trespass reminding us of the price paid by previous generations to secure open access for all to our wild spaces.
The Canadian Rockies
The Canadian Rockies provide what is perhaps the most extensive collection of quality ice climbs in the world, with the added bonus that the consistently cold temperatures that chill the entire mountain range mean that there is guaranteed to be ice to climb every season.
Kilimanjaro
Kilimanjaro is the largest free-standing mountain in the world, the highest peak in Africa, and one of the Seven Summits.
Grandes Jorasses
This majestic ridge crest east of the bulky Mont Blanc massif though not of such great height, surpasses it in its northern and western aspects, with its wildness and elegance. The south side, though not elegant, is certainly wild, being defended by disrupted glaciers and thrusting bastions of distorted rock.
Matterhorn
The Matterhorn (Cervin or Monte Cervino) is the epitome of the majestic peak, among the most famous mountains in the world but correspondingly overcrowded. This does not deter most climbers, and even those who think they can resist its popularity usually change their views when they actually see the mountain.
Icicle Mountaineering
Icicle was founded back in 2000, and we offer guided adventures to climb, trek, ski, and run, in mountains all around the world. We are based in Windermere, in the heart of the Lake District National Park, where we have a course base and shop. We focus on offering instructional courses to help build people’s autonomy, and are proud to be a small specialist company which has a very personal approach.
6 Of The Best: Crampons
Will Harris chooses six crampons for six different occasions, from ice climbing to winter walking…
Hillsound Trail Crampons review
There’s been a steady stream of lightweight alternatives to full crampons over the last few years, and if something like the Yaktrax Walk sits at the most basic end of the spectrum, then these Hillsound Trail Crampons err towards the more sophisticated end.
Berghaus MTN Seeker 32 mountain pack
We test out the smaller model in Berghaus’ new range of mountaineering packs
First Look: Gregory Miwok 12 pack
New for spring 2019 from ‘the other’ US pack specialist, Gregory, the Miwok 12 is a lightweight, multi-sport all-rounder…
Lowe Alpine Altus 42:47 review
When Lowe Alpine invited us out to the Austrian Alps a couple of months back for the mountain-hut launch of the new Altus range of packs, we were told they would be available in February 2019. Turns out though that you can buy them right now from the guys at Ellis Brigham.
Marloe Watch Company
Taking their name from the town of Marlow in Buckinghamshire, Marloe Watch Company is built upon two key values, rooted deeply within both founders’ lives; honesty and integrity.
The Mountain Company
The Mountain Company is an award-winning adventure travel operator specialising in cultural tours, treks and expeditions to the Himalaya and Karakoram.
Maps International
Maps International creates stunning maps with a strong focus on design. They are the perfect addition to any home or office, or to take with you on your next travel adventure.
Mountain Kingdoms
Mountain Kingdoms is an independent, UK based, small group adventure holiday specialist with over 30 years’ experience. Primarily offering worldwide walking holidays, pioneering and classic treks, and trekking peak expeditions.
Edelweiss
Edelweiss has accompanied the pioneers of mountaineering and climbing by making ropes to match their ambitions.
Lorpen
Spanish company Lopen produces some of the most advanced and technical socks in the industry and have been doing so since the 1980’s.
Grivel
In 1818 the Grivel family of blacksmiths started to transform their production of agricultural tools to satisfy the rather peculiar demands of a new breed of wealthy tourists who, for unfathomable reasons, wanted to climb mountains! And so, the Grivel Ice Axe and Crampons came into being.
Sea To Summit
The rich and rugged landscape of Australia reflects the nature of Sea To Summit. Making a host of items and accessories to equip you for wild coastlines, rivers, forests, cliffs, and mountains.
The Big Question: Has Synthetic Insulation finally caught up with Down?
It was a sort of outdoor industry pipe-dream: a synthetic fill that was a light and warm and compressible as down, but didn’t collapse in the face of rain. Is that dream finally a reality, asks Jon Doran?
Rab Microlight Summit Jacket review
Rab’s new top-tier Microlight Down Jacket has a secret weapon in the shape of futuristic Pertex Infinity Weave fabric straight out of The Matrix. It eliminates stitch-lines between baffles, which in turn improves wind resistance in bitter arctic gales.
The Big Question: Big down jacket or light down jacket?
It’s one of the great winter dilemmas – do you need a lightweight, micro-baffled down jacket or something chunkier and warmer? What are the pros and cons of both?
The Big Question: Down or Synthetic?
Should you choose a down or synthetic insulated jacket this winter? It used to be an easy one: down was for cold, dry conditions where pack size and weight mattered and getting it wet was unlikely. It also helped if you had a bulging wallet.
Group Test: Best Down Insulated Jackets Winter 2017/18
We test out 14 midweight down jackets to find out which are best for all-round use, from hanging around camp to tackling summits on freezing days…
Editor’s Blog: Welcome to issue 103…
T&M Editor Chris Kempster welcomes readers to issue 103, Mar/Apr 2021…
Editor’s Blog: Welcome to Issue 102…
T&M Editor Chris Kempster welcomes readers to issue 102, Jan/Feb 2021…
Elbrus '13 team complete traverse
A as we were going to press, our team of intrepid readers on the Trek & Mountain Elbrus ‘13 expedition were arriving back from Russia having completed a north-south traverse of the mountain. The summit eluded them unfortunately due to white-out conditions on summit day, but the team made a magnificent effort to cross the saddle and make it down …
Elbrus 2013 – Meet The Team
The countdown is on to Trek & Mountain’s second Reader Expedition – Elbrus 2013 – sponsored by Berghaus. Below we meet the team and ask them what they are most looking forward to about the trip… Andy Teall Best trekking trip or moment so far: Camping at 5,200m, below the Renjo La in Everest region. Stunning views, freezing cold and …
Elbrus 2013 – The Challenge
Hot on the heels of Trek & Mountain’s successful ‘Kili The Hard Way’ expedition in January ’13 comes our next adventure featuring you, our readers! On August 9th-19th 2013, a team of 12 readers plus Trek & Mountain will be heading to Russia to climb Europe’s highest peak, Mt Elbrus. Normally climbed from either the north or the south …
Fort William Mountain Festival
Fort William Mountain Festival returns as a live event on 16-20 February, 2022
Mountains on Stage Summer Edition 2018 film tour dates announced
Trek and Mountain is sponsoring the 2018 Summer Edition of Mountains on Stage as it travels across 40 cities in Europe…
OMM celebrates 50
The original mountain marathon continues to grow as athletes enter for the race’s 50th year. The extreme two-day race, held at the end of October, tests competitors on their endurance and self-reliance. In OMM tradition the UK race location will be kept a secret until August. The event, which started in 1968, aimed to combine fell running, orienteering, hill walking and …
The North Face launch new mountain festival
The North Face have announced the launch of a new festival, The North Face Mountain Festival, set in Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland, at the foot of the Eiger. The festival will run from the 16th to 18th of September and let’s festival goers trial outdoor activities such as running mountainous trails for the first time, following a pro athlete up a rock-face, …
Arc'teryx Academy registration date announced
Registration for this year’s Arc’teryx Academy, held from June 16-19 in Chamonix, will open on Tuesday, March 15th from 11am GMT. You may have read about last year’s Arc’teryx Academy in Trek & Mountain, when we accompanied participants on the ‘Basic Mountaineering’, ‘Advanced Technical Alpinism’, and ‘Overnight Bivy’ clinics. The four day event starts on Thursday with a with a …
Winter Meet 2016 – join up here!
It’s back and better than ever… read on to find out about the 2016 edition of Trek & Mountain’s famous Winter Meet, to be held on March 12-14 For the third year running Trek & Mountain is delighted to be running our famous Scottish winter weekend and, for 2016, this action packed weekend will be based in the East Highlands Mecca …
Ueli Steck to share his Magic Moments of 2015 in London lecture
Mountain Hardwear and Snow+Rock will be hosting a night with Ueli Steck during which he will be sharing his latest line of feats, including his reclaimed Eiger record, in only 2 hours, 22 minutes. The lecture titled ‘Ueli Steck/Magic Moments’ will be held at the London Geographical Society on 22 January. 2015 proved to be a big year for Steck, including his …
Alan Hinkes set to kick off UK lecture tour
Fjallraven ambassador Alan Hinkes is about to kick off his UK-wide lecture tour, ‘An Evening with Alan Hinkes OBE’, taking place at Cotswold Outdoor stores this month.
Stephen Venables announces 'Life After Everest' tour dates
Community Action Nepal are proud to present a new lecture series by Stephen Venables entitled ‘Life After Everest – The Adventure Continues!’ During the show, which will be illustrated with stunning images, Venables will tell tales of adventures around the world, including his escape from death in the Indian Himalaya when an abseil anchor failed and he fell 300 feet, finding …
Reinhold Messner opens sixth – and final – mountain museum
On 23rd July the sixth and final Reinhold Messner Mountain Museum opened its doors in Kronplatz, South Tyrol. The world famous explorer and mountaineer set out for great heights for his final project which sits at 2,275m and is the highest of the six. The museum also features a dramatic viewing platform jutting out from the mountain. Devoted to alpinism’s supreme …
Expedition medicine, part 1
Dr Raj Joshi kicks off our series on medical matters for trekkers and mountaineers with a look at some pre-trip basics…
Mont Blanc Italian Route
For a more ‘off-the-beaten-track’ experience on Mont Blanc, the Italian Route via the Gonella Hut takes some beating, says IFMGA Guide Ben Tibbetts
Exped Adventurer 2020 trip report: Journey to the source of the River Dove
With recent travel restrictions meaning that most of us have had to seek out adventure closer to home, Exped Adventurer 2020 winner Laura Jacklin set off on a multi-day hiking trip to the source of the River Dove near her home in the Peak District…
Stok Kangri and Ladakh
After many months of preparation, training, researching, attending our early summer training weekend, a few hundred emails and some extreme bag packing, the Trek & Mountain Stok Kangri 2015 Expedition team were ready to go…
Avalanche thwarts Aconcagua record attempt
Speed climber Karl Egloff has broken off his attempt to break the world record for ascending Aconcagua due to an avalanche blocking his planned route.
Test Gallery Post
Test Gallery Post Excerpt
Bolivian 3 Peaks Expedition – Illimani, Pequeno Alpamayo and Huayna Potosi
In 2017 Trek & Mountain returns to South America for an amazing trekking and mountaineering trip, and YOU could be on the team! The destination is Bolivia, and our objectives are threefold – Huayna Potosi (6,088m), Pequeno Alpamayo (5,410m) and the mighty Illimani (6,438m). The expedition will be led by Gavin Bate, head honcho at Adventure Alternative, one of the UK’s …
VIDEO: Stok Kangri training weekend
The Peak District was the venue for the recent Trek & Mountain Stok Kangri Expedition 2015 training weekend, and our team of readers met up to find out more about the trek from the trek organisers Peak Mountaineering and of course meet their team mates for the first time! The expedition sponsors Rab and Lowe Alpine were also on hand to talk about …
Trek & Mountain 'Khumbu 3 Peaks 2016 Expedition' announced
Trek & Mountain has announced its most ambitious expedition for readers of the magazine yet: to climb not one – but THREE – 6,000m trekking peaks in the Khumbu Valley in spring 2016. The triple crown of the Khumbu Valley is an enviable mission taking on Mera Peak, Island Peak and Lobuche in one fantastic adventure of a lifetime. All three of …
2015 Expeditions – Sign up here!
Ready for adventure? Then join us in 2015 on one of our superb trekking expeditions to the Himalayas, Andes and High Atlas… Our treks are organised by 360 Expeditions and Peak Mountaineering, and you will be in the hands of experienced Western guides and some of the best ground crew in the business. And as part of your package, you …
Join the team here!
Up for a challenge? Then join us on the first ever Trek & Mountain reader expedition… In January 2013, Trek & Mountain will be embarking on its first ever expedition, to climb Kili… the hard way. Taking place on 19-30th January, 2013, the expedition will be tackling the Umbwe/Western Breach route – the steepest and least-trekked route on Kilimanjaro. This …
The Phantom Line/Jugal Spire: the Piolets d’Or-winning climb by Tim Miller and Paul Ramsden
Film of Paul Ramsden and Tim Miller’s new route The Phantom Line on Jugal Spire
Fjällräven Polar 2017 – Full version
Fjällräven Polar is the ultimate proof of the notion that anyone can sustain and enjoy a full on winter expedition, without any necessary prior experience…
Norway by Train
Völkl athletes Stian Hagen, Austin Ross and Nadine Wallner ski tour across Norway, traveling via train.
Video: ‘Mirror Wall’ with Leo Houlding
Mirror Wall documents the latest expedition from world class climber Leo Houlding and his team as they take on the imposing Mirror Wall, a 1200m vertical tower in the polar mountains of Greenland.
Damavand – An Iranian Dream
A ski mountaineering team from the UK set out to climb Iran’s highest mountain, Mount Damavand (5610 m). The team is lead by Shirin Shabestari, an Iranian woman now resident in London. As the team ascend the mountain the film examines the pivotal role mountaineering played in Shirin’s upbringing and discover just how much this summit means to her.
Elbrus ’13 – The Movie
If you want to know what it’s like coming on a Trek & Mountain Expedition – or what it takes to climb Europe’s highest peak, for that matter – check out the film we shot on our Reader Expedition to Mt Elbrus last year.
Featured Trek: Unclimbed Peak Expedition 2017
Imagine standing on a summit that no one has stood on before, looking out over the incredible mountains of the Himalayas! This is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to climb an unclimbed peak in the remote region of Rolwaling, a truly ‘off the beaten track’ region of Nepal. This is one of the seven hidden valleys of the Himalaya, on the border with Tibet …
Featured trek: Great Wall of China, with Expedition Wise
Like a dragon in slumber, the Great Wall of China winds across deserts, plateaus, mountains & grasslands and is the longest ever structure built by humans. Our Great Wall of China Trek starts on the ancient wall of Badaling before continuing on to the different sections, providing each day with extensive views of the incredible wall itself and surrounding mountains. …
Featured Trek: Phongun Razi and the Burmese Ice Mountains
Be one of the few Westerners to trek in northern Burma where pristine jungle, remote trails, curious tribal people and a challenging high mountain ascent will make you feel like a true pioneer. Starting from the remote village of Putao, in the foothills of the Himalaya, Mountain Kingdoms’ 10-day trek crosses fast-flowing streams by bamboo suspension bridges, rises through untouched …
Featured Trek: Climb Mt Elbrus, with Adventure Consultants
Elbrus is a giant dormant volcano that separates Europe from Asia. It has become one of the coveted Seven Summits as it is the highest peak in Europe at 5,642m. Being relatively high, Elbrus certainly demands respect and we approach this by climbing to higher elevations each day during our acclimatisation phase whilst sleeping at lower elevations at night. A …
Featured Trek: Aconcagua summit trek, with Jagged Globe
Aconcagua is the highest mountain outside of the Himalaya. At 6,959m, the 1000m climb from high camp to the summit is notoriously tough. The unrelenting, lung-busting Canaleta, a steep scree-filled gully, is the physical, emotional and mental crux for many who attempt to reach the top. However, there is no technical climbing on the Horcones Route, and no ropes are …
Featured Trek: Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar, with Expedition Wise
Trek to one of the most iconic base camps in the world surrounded by the beautiful landscape of Nepal and see the mighty Mount Everest. Join us in 2017 on our Everest Base Camp Trek where your will trek to the place where many mountaineers have spent much time in preparation and anticipation of their Everest summit attempt. Witness for …
Featured Trek: Manaslu Circuit, Nepal, with Mountain Kingdoms
This ‘featured trek’ from Mountain Kingdoms is a distinctive and improved version of the classic Manaslu Circuit. Staying in teahouses, this strenuous trek is an excellent alternative to the Annapurna Circuit, with spectacular scenery from beginning to end. The high point and a highlight of this trek is Larkya La (5,134m), a dramatic mountain pass with sensational views. This well-considered …
Featured Trek: Guided Mont Blanc Walk
The historic Tour du Mont Blanc is easily one of the most spectacular walks of the world. Brimming with incredible vistas from high mountain passes, lush valleys and highway sized glaciers, alpine scenery does not get much better than this. Joining an international group led by a bilingual mountain guide, the emphasis is on full immersion into the sublime …
Featured Trek: Druk Path Trek, Bhutan
The Druk Path Trek is the perfect two-week holiday to Bhutan combining an excellent short trek with the chance to experience the fascinating culture, people and places of the Thunder Dragon Kingdom. The Druk Path trek takes in the most varied and beautiful sections of an ancient trail through the high mountains from Paro to Thimphu. Highlights include sacred lakes teeming …
Featured trek: Annapurna Sanctuary Trek
Annapurna Sanctuary remains one of the most spectacular treks in the Himalaya, and Mountain Kingdoms’ well-planned trek ensures you enjoy the best route, services and acclimatisation. Following a scenic river gorge, your trail ascends gradually over several days through bamboo forests and pretty terraced villages until reaching the Sanctuary – a hidden amphitheatre of towering Himalayan peaks including the awesome …
Mont Blanc Italian Route
For a more ‘off-the-beaten-track’ experience on Mont Blanc, the Italian Route via the Gonella Hut takes some beating, says IFMGA Guide Ben Tibbetts
Best of British – 20 Epic Mountain Adventures To Do This Year
As the prospects for global travel in the coming months remain uncertain, Rebecca Coles suggests 20 epic homegrown mountain adventures to keep us busy during the year ahead…
Peak Profile: Creag Meagaidh
Will Harris profiles a rugged and complex mountain that boasts some of Scotland’s best ice climbs…
The Interview: Hari Budha Magar – The first ever double above-knee amputee to summit Everest
We meet the ex Gurkha who became the first double above-knee amputee to summit Everest
Exped Adventurer 2020 trip report: Journey to the source of the River Dove
With recent travel restrictions meaning that most of us have had to seek out adventure closer to home, Exped Adventurer 2020 winner Laura Jacklin set off on a multi-day hiking trip to the source of the River Dove near her home in the Peak District…
Peak Profile: Elbrus
Will Harris takes a look at the main routes and logistics for climbing Mount Elbrus
The Skye Trail – Expert Guide
One of the very best backpacking adventures to be had in the British Isles, Alex Kendall gives a day-by-day guide to trekking the stunning Skye Trail…
The Lockdown Q&A – #9: Jon Gupta
As we all continue to live with restrictions on our outdoor activities, we talk to some of the world’s best mountaineers and mountain athletes about what they are doing to stay fit and focused during the Covid crisis…
The Lockdown Q&A – #8: Andy Cave
As we all continue to live with restrictions on our outdoor activities, we talk to some of the world’s best mountaineers and mountain athletes about what they are doing to stay fit and focused during the Covid crisis…
Mont Blanc Italian Route
For a more ‘off-the-beaten-track’ experience on Mont Blanc, the Italian Route via the Gonella Hut takes some beating, says IFMGA Guide Ben Tibbetts
The Interview: Hari Budha Magar – The first ever double above-knee amputee to summit Everest
We meet the ex Gurkha who became the first double above-knee amputee to summit Everest
A Beginner’s Guide to Backcountry Ski Touring
With more and more of us exploring the winter mountains on skis, Sophie Nicholson examines the appeal of backcountry skiing and advises on how you can do it too
Q&A: Tania Noakes
We talk to British Mountain Guide Tania Noakes about her recent 2500km traverse of Norway on skis…
Ueli Steck 1976-2017
We take a look back on the life of Ueli Steck, one of the greatest alpinists of his era and a much-loved character among mountaineering communities around the world…
The Interview: David Hamilton
David Hamilton has spent his entire career making the climbing dreams of others, and himself, come true, while leading for Jagged Globe and on his own privately-organised expeditions.
The Interview: Jeff Lowe
As Lowe Alpine celebrates its 50th anniversary, Dan Aspel talks to the brand’s former ‘chief gear tester’, the legendary Jeff Lowe…
The Sanctity Of Space trailer
Join renowned climbers Renan Ozturk and Freddie Wilkinson in the ultimate adventure
The Alpinist – teaser
Alex Honnold and Barry Blanchard talk about Marc-Andre Leclerc
The Alpinist – Official UK Trailer
Official UK trailer of the stunning new film about Canadian climber Marc-Andre Leclerc
‘The Dawn Wall’ trailer
In January, 2015, American rock climbers Tommy Caldwell and Kevin Jorgeson captivated the world with their effort to climb The Dawn Wall, a seemingly impossible 3,000 foot rock face in Yosemite National Park, California.
Patagonia ‘Blue Heart’ trailer
Trailer for Patagonia’s “Blue Heart” film which highlights the threat to Europe’s last wild rivers in the Balkans posed by unbridled hydropower development.
Mountains On Stage – Summer Edition 2018 trailer
Trailer for the Mountains On Stage film tour that’s coming to the UK in March, April and May 2018.
Kilian Jornet: ‘Path to Everest’ trailer
Surrounded by the mountains and people who are his inspiration, in ‘Path to Everest’, the Kilian Jornet reveals his most intimate fears, contradictions and passions.
Banff Mountain Film Festival – 2018 UK and Ireland tour trailer
The 2018 UK and Ireland Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour Trailer is been released! Watch it now for a taste of the exhiliration, exploration and adventure that you can expect to experience at a Banff screening.
Expedition medicine, part 1
Dr Raj Joshi kicks off our series on medical matters for trekkers and mountaineers with a look at some pre-trip basics…
Arc’teryx Kragg, Sylan GTX and Vertex Alpine shoes
We test out three new technical shoes from Arc’teryx’s spring/summer 2024 range
The North Face Summit Breithorn Futurelight Hiking Boots
We take a look at TNF’s latest light mountaineering boot, the Breithorn
Keen NXIS EVO Waterproof Boot review
Keen’s latest boot is aimed at fast hikers and combines durable materials with a lightweight design…
First Look: La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX
La Sportiva’s Ultra Raptor trail running shoe has always been popular with fast hikers, and now the Italian brand has come up with a mid boot version specifically for hiking – Chris Kempster takes it for a spin…
Keen Ridge Flex Waterproof Hiking Boots review
Chris Kempster tries out a hiking boot that features Keen’s new bellows flex technology…
Hanwag Banks GTX review
With the warmer months finally here, Chris Kempster tries out a lightweight 3-season walking boot that offers superb comfort and stability combined with a stylish design…
Lightweight Backpacking Gear Guide
This month we team up with the experts at Ultralight Outdoor Gear for a look at all the essential kit you need to go lightweight backpacking…
First Look: Mammut Rime Light Flex Hooded Jacket, Crater Hooded Jacket & Ducan Pro High GTX Boot
Jon Doran tries out three of Mammut’s new autumn/winter products to see if the Swiss brand’s ‘Absolute Alpine’ ethos translates into damp British conditions…
La Sportiva Nepal Cube GTX
Will Harris takes a look at the latest version of La Sportiva’s popular winter and alpine workhorse, the Nepal…
Keen Karraig Women’s boot review
Amanda Travis tests Keen’s new, more technical women’s trekking boots…
Corsica GR20
The GR 20 is a long-distance trail that runs roughly north-south along the spine of Corsica. It has been described as ‘Europe’s toughest trek’ and came in at number 8 in Trek & Mountain’s Top 100 Treks poll.
Tour du Mont Blanc
The Tour du Mont Blanc, which takes hikers on a spectacular circuit of Western Europe’s highest peak, is one of the best long-distance treks in the world and ranks at number 3 in Trek & Mountain’s Top 100 Treks poll.
Grandes Jorasses
This majestic ridge crest east of the bulky Mont Blanc massif though not of such great height, surpasses it in its northern and western aspects, with its wildness and elegance. The south side, though not elegant, is certainly wild, being defended by disrupted glaciers and thrusting bastions of distorted rock.
A Cold Embrace, with Sir Chris Bonington
Sir Chris Bonington talks about enduring and enjoying the cold in high places
Mick Fowler: Taxman, Cancer Survivor and The World’s Greatest Amateur Climber
Lovely film about the ‘climbing taxman’, Mick Fowler, one of Britain’s great climbers
Ascend: Forced to flee the Taliban, Afghan women find a home in climbing
Forced to flee the Taliban, Afghan women find a home in climbing in this film from Patagonia Films
Petzl RocTrip 2022: A Story of Manikia
The Petzl ROC Trip is back and in 2022 visits Manikia in Greece
The Longest Line – full film
Join Calum Maclean and Jenny Graham as they walk The Longest Line
Ocean to Asgard – Bronwyn Hodgins and Jacob Cook
Last summer Bronwyn Hodgins, Jacob Cook, Thor Stewart and Zack Goldberg-Poch set out on a six week multi-sport expedition to Baffin Island in northern Canada
Over The Edge – Women’s Trad Fest
To celebrate five years of the Women’s Trad Festival, Rab commissioned ‘Over the Edge’ to tell the story of the women behind the sell-out climbing festival
A Feather In The West – rock climbing on the sea cliffs of Owey Island
‘A Feather in the West’ is about Owey, the eponymous wild, Atlantic frontier island just off the west coast of County Donegal.
The North Face presents… Lhotse
In 2018, Hilaree Nelson and Jim Morrison completed the first ski descent of the 27,940-foot Lhotse, the fourth-highest mountain in the world. This is their story.
Keen Ridge Flex Waterproof Hiking Boots review
Chris Kempster tries out a hiking boot that features Keen’s new bellows flex technology…
Avalanche thwarts Aconcagua record attempt
Speed climber Karl Egloff has broken off his attempt to break the world record for ascending Aconcagua due to an avalanche blocking his planned route.
Test Gallery Post
Test Gallery Post Excerpt
Bolivian 3 Peaks Expedition – Illimani, Pequeno Alpamayo and Huayna Potosi
In 2017 Trek & Mountain returns to South America for an amazing trekking and mountaineering trip, and YOU could be on the team! The destination is Bolivia, and our objectives are threefold – Huayna Potosi (6,088m), Pequeno Alpamayo (5,410m) and the mighty Illimani (6,438m). The expedition will be led by Gavin Bate, head honcho at Adventure Alternative, one of the UK’s …
VIDEO: Stok Kangri training weekend
The Peak District was the venue for the recent Trek & Mountain Stok Kangri Expedition 2015 training weekend, and our team of readers met up to find out more about the trek from the trek organisers Peak Mountaineering and of course meet their team mates for the first time! The expedition sponsors Rab and Lowe Alpine were also on hand to talk about …
Trek & Mountain 'Khumbu 3 Peaks 2016 Expedition' announced
Trek & Mountain has announced its most ambitious expedition for readers of the magazine yet: to climb not one – but THREE – 6,000m trekking peaks in the Khumbu Valley in spring 2016. The triple crown of the Khumbu Valley is an enviable mission taking on Mera Peak, Island Peak and Lobuche in one fantastic adventure of a lifetime. All three of …
2015 Expeditions – Sign up here!
Ready for adventure? Then join us in 2015 on one of our superb trekking expeditions to the Himalayas, Andes and High Atlas… Our treks are organised by 360 Expeditions and Peak Mountaineering, and you will be in the hands of experienced Western guides and some of the best ground crew in the business. And as part of your package, you …
Join the team here!
Up for a challenge? Then join us on the first ever Trek & Mountain reader expedition… In January 2013, Trek & Mountain will be embarking on its first ever expedition, to climb Kili… the hard way. Taking place on 19-30th January, 2013, the expedition will be tackling the Umbwe/Western Breach route – the steepest and least-trekked route on Kilimanjaro. This …
Keen Ridge Flex Waterproof Hiking Boots review
Chris Kempster tries out a hiking boot that features Keen’s new bellows flex technology…
Rab Mythic Ultra sleeping bag
Preview of the new Rab Mythic Ultra lightweight sleeping bags
Hanwag’s new Ferrata II in action
Preview of Hanwag’s new Ferrata II lightweight mountaineering boot
Scottish Winter Layering Guide with Dave MacLeod
Mountain Equipment athlete Dave MacLeod takes us through his go-to Scottish winter climbing kit, and the principles behind each layer.
Arc’teryx: Canadian Mountain Workshop
Makers of things can be a curious bunch. On the doorstep of the Coast Mountains in North Vancouver, a team of designers, developers, athletes, tool and pattern makers flew to a remote glacier near Bella Coola, BC to live for a week in the middle of nowhere.
Trek & Mountain Xmas Gift Guide 2024
16 great Xmas gift ideas for trekkers and mountaineers
Arc’teryx Kragg, Sylan GTX and Vertex Alpine shoes
We test out three new technical shoes from Arc’teryx’s spring/summer 2024 range
Berghaus MTN Seeker 32 mountain pack
We test out the smaller model in Berghaus’ new range of mountaineering packs
ePE: GORE-TEX’s quiet fabric revolution
Jon Doran reports from a recent event focused on Gore-Tex’s new ePE membranes
Montane Icarus Jacket featuring PrimaLoft Thermoplume insulation
The new version of the Montane Icarus Jacket has some clever tricks up its sleeves
Trek & Mountain GREEN GEAR GUIDE 2023
A selection of this year’s greenest outdoor products selected by Trek & Mountain
Best Lightweight Down Sleeping Bags 2023
We try out eight of the best lightweight down sleeping bags on the market today
Trek & Mountain Spring ’23 Product Showcase
We round up some of this spring’s hottest new outdoor products
The North Face Summit Breithorn Futurelight Hiking Boots
We take a look at TNF’s latest light mountaineering boot, the Breithorn
Petzl Tikkina, Tikka and Actik CORE headtorches review
We take a look at the new Tikka 5 range of headlamps from Petzl
Preparing for glacial crossing
Preparation for glacier crossing should be meticulously prepared and rehearsed, so that no time is wasted either setting up the basic moving-together system or any of the techniques that may subseqently follow…
Outdoor Research BitterBlaze Gloves preview
If you’ve climbed, technical water ice, you’ll know that gloves that work ‘just right’ are super hard to come by. They need to be warm enough that your hands don’t freeze and lose dexterity. But also dexterous enough that you can, say, place and ice-screw and clip it, then set up a belay, without taking them off.
Satmap Active 20 GPS UK Platinum review
Jon Doran tries out a rugged, all-season, outdoors-specific GPS unit running Ordnance Survey mapping…
The big question: GPS unit, Smartphone app or GPS watch?
What’s your best option for an outdoors GPS unit?…
Great British Mountain Days: The Ogwen Triple
Paul Lewis describes a brilliant day out in North Wales, that links up three scrambling routes around Cwm Idwal…
Great British Mountain Days: Curved Ridge
Alun Richardson describes a day out on the classic winter route, Curved Ridge, on Buachaille Etive Mor…
Great British Mountain Days: The Ogwen Triple
Paul Lewis describes a brilliant day out in North Wales, that links up three scrambling routes around Cwm Idwal…
Petzl Fly harness review
Will Harris puts Petzl’s lightest ever harness through its paces
Petzl Tikkina, Tikka and Actik CORE headtorches review
We take a look at the new Tikka 5 range of headlamps from Petzl
Petzl IKO CORE review
The radical new IKO CORE headtorch looks like nothing else out there – well it does, it looks a bit like a Klingon battle cruiser in miniature – but not like any other headtorch…
Petzl SWIFT RL Headtorch review
Jon Doran tests a new rechargeable all-round headtorch that uses Petzl’s Reactive Lighting technology…
The Big Question: How do I choose the right headtorch?
How bright does your headtorch need to be? USB rechargeable or normal batteries? What about beam patterns? How much burn time do you really need?
Suprabeam V3r review
The Suprabeam weighs in at 184g but offers a massive 300 lumens of power. For your money you get the headtorch, a long cable, a spare Li-Poly battery, a carry case and a USB and car charger. I have found that it sits well on my head and have also used it on top of a climbing helmet…
Petzl Nao review
Over the years headtorches have come on in leaps and bounds but when we first saw a demo of Petzl’s Nao at the ISPO trade show earlier in the year it was clear that this was another big leap forward…
Grivel Stealth Helmet review
Paul Smith tests out the latest lightweight helmet from Grivel
Black Diamond Vapor review
Kathryn James tries out Black Diamond’s lightest-ever helmet
Arc’teryx Norvan 14 Hydration Vest review
The Arc’teryx Norvan range of products are positioned as “high performance trail running systems for extended high output in challenging terrain”. The Norvan 14 Hydration Vest, like other products in the range, appears to have been designed to occupy a slightly different space in the competitive ultra distance running market.
Geigerrig Rig 500 review
The big talking point about the new range of Geigerrig hydration bladders is that they use a pressurised system. As well as the normal tube that transports water from the bladder to your mouth, there’s a second tube that ends in a ‘power bulb’ which you squeeze to push air into the reservoir…
Preparing for glacial crossing
Preparation for glacier crossing should be meticulously prepared and rehearsed, so that no time is wasted either setting up the basic moving-together system or any of the techniques that may subseqently follow…
Testing the snow pack
There are a number of tests that can be done to assess the state of the snow. None of these should be taken in isolation, but used to help build up a picture of what the snow conditions in that immediate area are likely to be…
Clove hitch
This is an extremely useful knot, and it is used throughout all areas of mountaineering. Its simplicity of tying, allied with its ease of adjustment, make it ideal to secure yourself to an anchor system. It can also be tied with one hand, a useful property when needing to arrange an anchor whilst holding on to the rock or an ice axe for security…
Ueli Steck 1976-2017
We take a look back on the life of Ueli Steck, one of the greatest alpinists of his era and a much-loved character among mountaineering communities around the world…
Climbing and protecting steeper mixed ground
Winter skills 4.4: climbing and protecting steeper mixed ground. Expert tips for winter climbing. Climbing and protecting steeper mixed ground.
Deuter
From postbags to mountain peaks, Deuter has been creating bags for over 100 years. A market leader in Hiking, Mountaineering, Travel, and Bike packs, Deuter has redefined the rucksack market with its back-system technologies and use of quality materials.
Scarpa
SCARPA, literally the Italian for ‘shoe’. Footwear innovation and tradition share equally deep roots at Scarpa, which today remains a family-owned company with its headquarters and performance footwear manufacturing facilities in the same regions of northern Italy where it all started in 1938.
Houlding and team tame the Spectre
Leo Houlding and his teammates Jean Burgun and Mark Sedon have successfully climbed the Spectre in the Gothic Mountains in Antarctica. They achieved this via a route on the north side of the mountain and have now sent back images and a report to expedition partner Berghaus which can be viewed here.
6 Of The Best: Ice Axes
In the market for a new ice axe, or pair of technical tools? Will Harris chooses size models for six different mountain activities – here are his picks…
Petzl SUM’TEC review
Will Harris tests out the latest version of Petzl’s versatile technical mountaineering axes.
Montane Icarus Jacket featuring PrimaLoft Thermoplume insulation
The new version of the Montane Icarus Jacket has some clever tricks up its sleeves
First Look: Mammut Rime Light Flex Hooded Jacket, Crater Hooded Jacket & Ducan Pro High GTX Boot
Jon Doran tries out three of Mammut’s new autumn/winter products to see if the Swiss brand’s ‘Absolute Alpine’ ethos translates into damp British conditions…
Patagonia Macro Puff Hoody review
Jon Duran tests a new jacket from Patagonia that combines the warmth-to-weight ratio of high-loft down, but the water-resistance of heavier synthetic filled jackets…
The Big Question: Has Synthetic Insulation finally caught up with Down?
It was a sort of outdoor industry pipe-dream: a synthetic fill that was a light and warm and compressible as down, but didn’t collapse in the face of rain. Is that dream finally a reality, asks Jon Doran?
Montane Phoenix Jacket review
Montane’s Phoenix – and its men’s variant, the Icarus – looks suspiciously like a classic, lightweight, micro-baffled down jacket…
The Big Question: What’s with down-like insulation?
This year’s must have is a jacket that looks and feels like down, with baffled construction, but is actually filled with a 100% bird-friendly synthetic that’s designed to mimic the way down works.
Berghaus Aonach AX Insulated Jacket review
Berghaus’s weird tech results in a down-filled jacket that’s designed for use as a mid-layer in really cold conditions. The big surprise is that it works improbably well, though it could be lighter.
The Big Question: Down or Synthetic?
Should you choose a down or synthetic insulated jacket this winter? It used to be an easy one: down was for cold, dry conditions where pack size and weight mattered and getting it wet was unlikely. It also helped if you had a bulging wallet.
Montane Icarus (and Phoenix) Jacket review
For all the advances in water-resistant down insulation in recent years, synthetic still reigns supreme when you know that you will be experiencing particularly damp conditions – and we British know that better than anyone!
Snowcard Insurance
Snowcard has been insuring mountain sports adventure holidays since 1990 and as one of the UK’s longest running specialists in activity holiday travel insurance, Snowcard is regarded as one of the leading choices for insurance in the mountain sports community.
The Lockdown Q&A – #9: Jon Gupta
As we all continue to live with restrictions on our outdoor activities, we talk to some of the world’s best mountaineers and mountain athletes about what they are doing to stay fit and focused during the Covid crisis…
The Lockdown Q&A – #8: Andy Cave
As we all continue to live with restrictions on our outdoor activities, we talk to some of the world’s best mountaineers and mountain athletes about what they are doing to stay fit and focused during the Covid crisis…
The Lockdown Q&A – #7: Steve Bate
As we all continue to live with restrictions on our outdoor activities, we talk to some of the world’s best mountaineers and mountain athletes about what they are doing to stay fit and focused during the Covid crisis…
The Lockdown Q&A – #6: Will Copestake
As we all continue to live with restrictions on our outdoor activities, we talk to some of the world’s best mountaineers and mountain athletes about what they are doing to stay fit and focused during the Covid crisis…
The Lockdown Q&A – #5: Tom Livingstone
As we all continue to live with restrictions on our outdoor activities, we talk to some of the world’s best mountaineers and mountain athletes about what they are doing to stay fit and focused during the Covid crisis…
The Lockdown Q&A – #4: Florian Reichert
As we all continue to live with restrictions on our outdoor activities, we talk to some of the world’s best mountaineers and mountain athletes about what they are doing to stay fit and focused during the Covid crisis…
The Lockdown Q&A – #3: Alan Hinkes
As we all continue to live with restrictions on our outdoor activities, we talk to some of the world’s best mountaineers and mountain athletes about what they are doing to stay fit and focused during the Covid crisis…
Q&A: Tania Noakes
We talk to British Mountain Guide Tania Noakes about her recent 2500km traverse of Norway on skis…
The Performance Edge, Episode 6 – Jon Gupta
Montane athlete Jon Gupta talks about the reward of success and managing risk whilst on the Denali leg of his and Steve Plain’s ‘7in4’ expedition.
Face 2 Face… with Calum Muskett
The first in our new series of interviews with climbers and mountaineers, talking about their passion for the outdoors and describing some of their favourite routes.
Interview: Sir Ranulph Fiennes
Trek and Mountain brings you an interview with Sir Ranulph Fiennes at The Transglobe Expedition Trust and Berghaus Campfire 2017.
Tommy Caldwell interview, Piolets d’Or
We caught up with Yosemite legend Tommy Caldwell at the 2015 Piolets d’Or ceremony in Chamonix, where he received one of the coveted axes for his and Alex Honnold’s traverse of the Fitz Roy range in Patagonia.
EXCLUSIVE! Leo Houlding Ulvetanna interview
With the premiere of ‘The Last Great Climb’ this week, Leo Houlding and Alastair Lee have – in Doug Scott’s words – “taken climbing films to a whole new level”. We spoke to Houlding over the summer about the incredible logistics and skill required to not only climb the fearsome north east ridge of Ulvetanna, but to film the whole adventure as well.
The Interview: Hari Budha Magar – The first ever double above-knee amputee to summit Everest
We meet the ex Gurkha who became the first double above-knee amputee to summit Everest
The Lockdown Q&A – #9: Jon Gupta
As we all continue to live with restrictions on our outdoor activities, we talk to some of the world’s best mountaineers and mountain athletes about what they are doing to stay fit and focused during the Covid crisis…
The Lockdown Q&A – #8: Andy Cave
As we all continue to live with restrictions on our outdoor activities, we talk to some of the world’s best mountaineers and mountain athletes about what they are doing to stay fit and focused during the Covid crisis…
The Lockdown Q&A – #7: Steve Bate
As we all continue to live with restrictions on our outdoor activities, we talk to some of the world’s best mountaineers and mountain athletes about what they are doing to stay fit and focused during the Covid crisis…
The Lockdown Q&A – #6: Will Copestake
As we all continue to live with restrictions on our outdoor activities, we talk to some of the world’s best mountaineers and mountain athletes about what they are doing to stay fit and focused during the Covid crisis…
The Lockdown Q&A – #5: Tom Livingstone
As we all continue to live with restrictions on our outdoor activities, we talk to some of the world’s best mountaineers and mountain athletes about what they are doing to stay fit and focused during the Covid crisis…
The Lockdown Q&A – #4: Florian Reichert
As we all continue to live with restrictions on our outdoor activities, we talk to some of the world’s best mountaineers and mountain athletes about what they are doing to stay fit and focused during the Covid crisis…
The Lockdown Q&A – #3: Alan Hinkes
As we all continue to live with restrictions on our outdoor activities, we talk to some of the world’s best mountaineers and mountain athletes about what they are doing to stay fit and focused during the Covid crisis…
Tour du Mont Blanc
The Tour du Mont Blanc, which takes hikers on a spectacular circuit of Western Europe’s highest peak, is one of the best long-distance treks in the world and ranks at number 3 in Trek & Mountain’s Top 100 Treks poll.
Gran Paradiso
Gran Paradiso is the highest summit of the Graian Alps which lie between Mont Blanc to the north and Dauphiné range to the south.
Trek & Mountain 'Khumbu 3 Peaks 2016 Expedition' announced
Trek & Mountain has announced its most ambitious expedition for readers of the magazine yet: to climb not one – but THREE – 6,000m trekking peaks in the Khumbu Valley in spring 2016. The triple crown of the Khumbu Valley is an enviable mission taking on Mera Peak, Island Peak and Lobuche in one fantastic adventure of a lifetime. All three of …
Kilimanjaro Kitlist
Whichever route you’re planning to trek, Kilimanjaro requires a range of essential gear to keep you warm and comfortable… Because of the different temperate zones on Kili, you need a range of clothing to cope as you may encounter everything from hot and sunny weather to wind and rain, to sub-zero temperatures. Luckily, you’ll have porters to carry your kitbag …
T&M team summits Kili via Western Breach
The first Trek & Mountain reader expedition ended in success this week, with all 6 members of the team summiting Kilimanjaro’s Uhuru peak on 29th January. The expedition, sponsored by leading outdoor brand Helly Hansen, took the most direct and toughest route up the mountain, the Umbwe route, before ascending to the crater rim by the infamous Western Breach, the …
Trek & Mountain readers begin Kili The Hard Way trek
Having escaped a snowbound UK on Friday 18th, Trek & Mountain’s ‘Kili The Hard Way 2013’ team begin their adventure on Sunday with an acclimatisation trek up nearby Mt Meru, before readying themselves to tackle Kilimanjaro itself. Why ‘the hard way’, you may ask? Well, the route we have chosen for our first ever reader expedition is the little-trekked Umbwe …
Kili The Hard Way blog – Brecon Beacons Training Weekend
Team member Liz Miall writes about the last training weekend before the team heads off for Tanzania… Friday 4th January Christmas is all but done and dusted, the decorations are mostly down and only remnants of Christmas cake and the odd strawberry Quality Street remain. 2013 is heralded in with gusto and for me, a certain amount of trepidation because …
Kili The Hard Way blog – Snowdonia training weekend
By Kili team-member Liz Miall MINUS 2 MONTHS – 17TH–18TH NOVEMBER I thought this was going to be a bit of an assessment/selection weekend for Kili The Hard Way 2013 sponsored by Helly Hansen, but it turns out no – we’re in! The itinerary for the weekend starts at 7pm with a briefing, meet our leader for the weekend …
Kingsley Jones: Unlock(down)ing the Lake District
Lake District resident and mountain professional, Kingsley Jones, reflects on the past year and what the future holds for the National Park
Kingsley Jones: Alpine Diary, part 8 – Chamonix: White Phoenix
After labelling 2018 as a black year for Chamonix in my previous blog post, there was a collective sense of nerves as the winter season approached…
Kingsley Jones: Alpine Diary, part 7 – Land of Rock and Fire
You’d be excused for thinking this was a blog about Iceland, with a title of ‘Land of Rock and Fire’, but no, it’s a Chamonix and alpine conditions update!
Kingsley Jones: Alpine Diary, part 6 – Summits, Snow and Sunburn
As a Canadian mountain guide pithily said after his stint of work in Chamonix, “I leave for Canada tomorrow, with my crampon points rounded, and my elbows sharpened”. His words were said in jest, sort of, but there’s quite an element of truth to them…
Kingsley Jones: ‘Alpine diary, part 5 – Cold from the East’
Polar Vortices and the North Atlantic Oscillation weren’t vocabulary in the forefront in my brain just a month ago, but having worked the last month in the Alps, with temperatures dipping to -28C, I feel overly well acquainted with the Beast from the East…
Kingsley Jones: ‘Alpine diary, part 3 – Snowmageddon!’
‘Avalanche hits forty chalets in Les Houches’, screams the headline of the Dauphiné Libéré, about yesterday’s avalanche into the Chamonix valley, at the foot of Mont Blanc in the French Alps.
Kilimanjaro Kitlist
Whichever route you’re planning to trek, Kilimanjaro requires a range of essential gear to keep you warm and comfortable… Because of the different temperate zones on Kili, you need a range of clothing to cope as you may encounter everything from hot and sunny weather to wind and rain, to sub-zero temperatures. Luckily, you’ll have porters to carry your kitbag …
Monch Kitlist
Here’s our suggested kitlist for ‘easy’ classic alpine climbs such as the Bernese peak, the Monch BASIC KIT Lightweight mountaineering boots – La Sportiva Trango Extreme Evo Semi-rigid crampons – Grivel G12 General mountaineering ice axe – Black Diamond Raven Backpack – Deuter Guide 30+ SL Softshell pants – Rab Vapour-Rise Guide Pants Softshell jacket – The North Face …
Corsica GR20 Kitlist
Planning to trek Corsica’s GR20? Here’s our complete list of gear to take… When planning your kit for the GR20, one decision to make is whether to carry camping gear or to sleep in refuges. If you’re going in the peak months (July and August) you should definitely carry a tent as you can’t pre-book refuges and so a bed …
Clove hitch
This is an extremely useful knot, and it is used throughout all areas of mountaineering. Its simplicity of tying, allied with its ease of adjustment, make it ideal to secure yourself to an anchor system. It can also be tied with one hand, a useful property when needing to arrange an anchor whilst holding on to the rock or an ice axe for security…
Figure-of-eight knot
This is an essential knot, and it can be tied in a number of ways. It is the main method that many people use when tying on to a harness, and when tied slightly differently it is a quick and effective method of tying on to anchors…
Knowledge: How to choose a rope
IFMGA Guide Alun Richardson runs through the different types of ropes available and what they are best suited for… The increasing popularity and diversification of climbing has led to a broader selection of climbing ropes, each with its own characteristics. This choice undoubtedly has benefits, but it can make it difficult to decipher what’s on offer and how it relates …
Issue 26 – March 2012
Patagonia Steve Razzetti explores the wild and remote Tierra del Fuego, as well as the more frequented Torres Del Paine and Los Glaciares national parks 10 Of The Best… Scottish Winter Ridges Dan Bailey picks out ten of his favourite ridges to climb in winter conditions, with a variety of grades Everest Base Camp Laura Crick gives an account of …
Mont Blanc Italian Route
For a more ‘off-the-beaten-track’ experience on Mont Blanc, the Italian Route via the Gonella Hut takes some beating, says IFMGA Guide Ben Tibbetts
Best of British – 20 Epic Mountain Adventures To Do This Year
As the prospects for global travel in the coming months remain uncertain, Rebecca Coles suggests 20 epic homegrown mountain adventures to keep us busy during the year ahead…
Peak Profile: Creag Meagaidh
Will Harris profiles a rugged and complex mountain that boasts some of Scotland’s best ice climbs…
The Interview: Hari Budha Magar – The first ever double above-knee amputee to summit Everest
We meet the ex Gurkha who became the first double above-knee amputee to summit Everest
Exped Adventurer 2020 trip report: Journey to the source of the River Dove
With recent travel restrictions meaning that most of us have had to seek out adventure closer to home, Exped Adventurer 2020 winner Laura Jacklin set off on a multi-day hiking trip to the source of the River Dove near her home in the Peak District…
Peak Profile: Elbrus
Will Harris takes a look at the main routes and logistics for climbing Mount Elbrus
The Skye Trail – Expert Guide
One of the very best backpacking adventures to be had in the British Isles, Alex Kendall gives a day-by-day guide to trekking the stunning Skye Trail…
The Lockdown Q&A – #9: Jon Gupta
As we all continue to live with restrictions on our outdoor activities, we talk to some of the world’s best mountaineers and mountain athletes about what they are doing to stay fit and focused during the Covid crisis…
The Lockdown Q&A – #8: Andy Cave
As we all continue to live with restrictions on our outdoor activities, we talk to some of the world’s best mountaineers and mountain athletes about what they are doing to stay fit and focused during the Covid crisis…
Marloe Watch Company
Taking their name from the town of Marlow in Buckinghamshire, Marloe Watch Company is built upon two key values, rooted deeply within both founders’ lives; honesty and integrity.
Haglöfs awarded Sustainability Brand of the Year
Passionate about manufacturing products ethically, Haglöfs is one of today’s most sustainable developers of well-made clothing and equipment for the mountains. During 2013, Haglöfs defined an array of tough sustainability goals. They aim to ensure that 50% of clothing products sold are made from recycled material, and 80% of clothing manufactured with bluesign®-approved materials. In addition, 50% of their hardware will be manufactured …
Montane Protium Hoodie review
We test a new fleece midlayer from Montane in the Scottish Highlands….
Haglöfs Kabi (K2) Jacket & Aran (Valley) Jacket review
Amanda Travis tests two pieces from Haglöfs’ new Edurne Pasaban collection, named after the first woman to climb the world’s 8,000m peaks…
Kingsley Jones: Alpine Diary, part 7 – Land of Rock and Fire
You’d be excused for thinking this was a blog about Iceland, with a title of ‘Land of Rock and Fire’, but no, it’s a Chamonix and alpine conditions update!
Adam Campbell: ‘In Constant Motion’
Adam Campbell’s life has revolved around motion. As one of the world’s top ultra runners, his mantra has been simple: ‘If you’re not moving, you’re dead’.
Ueli Steck 1976-2017
We take a look back on the life of Ueli Steck, one of the greatest alpinists of his era and a much-loved character among mountaineering communities around the world…
Avalanche thwarts Aconcagua record attempt
Speed climber Karl Egloff has broken off his attempt to break the world record for ascending Aconcagua due to an avalanche blocking his planned route.
The Montane Spine Race is go!
They call it the UK’s most brutal race, and this weekend saw the start of the Montane Spine Race which organisers say features the most competitive line-up yet in its seven-year history.
Deuter
From postbags to mountain peaks, Deuter has been creating bags for over 100 years. A market leader in Hiking, Mountaineering, Travel, and Bike packs, Deuter has redefined the rucksack market with its back-system technologies and use of quality materials.
Mont Blanc Italian Route
For a more ‘off-the-beaten-track’ experience on Mont Blanc, the Italian Route via the Gonella Hut takes some beating, says IFMGA Guide Ben Tibbetts
Preparing for glacial crossing
Preparation for glacier crossing should be meticulously prepared and rehearsed, so that no time is wasted either setting up the basic moving-together system or any of the techniques that may subseqently follow…
Testing the snow pack
There are a number of tests that can be done to assess the state of the snow. None of these should be taken in isolation, but used to help build up a picture of what the snow conditions in that immediate area are likely to be…
Clove hitch
This is an extremely useful knot, and it is used throughout all areas of mountaineering. Its simplicity of tying, allied with its ease of adjustment, make it ideal to secure yourself to an anchor system. It can also be tied with one hand, a useful property when needing to arrange an anchor whilst holding on to the rock or an ice axe for security…
Kingsley Jones: Alpine Diary, part 7 – Land of Rock and Fire
You’d be excused for thinking this was a blog about Iceland, with a title of ‘Land of Rock and Fire’, but no, it’s a Chamonix and alpine conditions update!
Mountain Kingdoms
Mountain Kingdoms is an independent, UK based, small group adventure holiday specialist with over 30 years’ experience. Primarily offering worldwide walking holidays, pioneering and classic treks, and trekking peak expeditions.
Ueli Steck 1976-2017
We take a look back on the life of Ueli Steck, one of the greatest alpinists of his era and a much-loved character among mountaineering communities around the world…
The North Face Summit Breithorn Futurelight Hiking Boots
We take a look at TNF’s latest light mountaineering boot, the Breithorn
La Sportiva Nepal Cube GTX
Will Harris takes a look at the latest version of La Sportiva’s popular winter and alpine workhorse, the Nepal…
Scarpa Ribelle Mountain Tech OD review
‘Radical’, ‘futuristic’, ‘cutting edge’… we test out Scarpa’s latest lightweight mountaineering boot, the Ribelle Mountain Tech OD
Millet Everest Summit GTX review
Expedition leader Tim Mosedale tests out the latest version of Millet’s high-altitude boots, on Ama Dablam…
Scarpa Jorasses Pro GTX review
The Alps provides the perfect testing ground for Scarpa’s latest hi-tech mountaineering boots
Calculating distance
Being able to calculate distance is an important skill in poor visibility or when an objective is not obvious…
Walking on a bearing
Hold the compass firmly in your hand in front of your body, making sure that there are no metal objects nearby. Rotate yourself until the needle sits in the correct manner over the arrow on the bottom of the housing, ensuring that you have the north end of the needle, often painted red, over the pointed part of the arrow…
Ama Dablam
Often judged to be one of the world’s most beautiful mountains, Ama Dablam stands proud from its Himalayan neighbours, an austere pyramid of rock and ice.
Everest
Known as Sargamatha (Nepal), Chomolungma (Tibet) or just ‘the world’s highest peak’, Everest rises to 8848m at its summit.
WIN a pair of tickets to Base Camp Festival 2025!
A chance to win yourself two tickets to next year’s Base Camp Festivall
Trek & Mountain Xmas Gift Guide 2024
16 great Xmas gift ideas for trekkers and mountaineers
British mountaineer Adriana Brownlee becomes youngest woman to summit all 14 8000m peaks
British mountaineer Adriana Brownlee becomes youngest woman to summit all 8000ers
Trek & Mountain presents… Base Camp Festival 2025!
Trek & Mountain announces the acquisition of Base Camp Festival
Victor Saunders and Mick Fowler make first ascent of Yawash Sar
Veteran duo Mick Fowler and Victor Saunders make first ascent in Karakoram
The ultimate wild camping breakfast!
Check out our favourite wild camping breakfast, easily made in four simple steps
Montane unveils new waterproof fabric technology
Montane unveils new waterproof fabric technology called Petrichor
Sir Chris Bonington turns 90 and vows to fulfil promise to Doug Scott
Sir Chris Bonington marks 90th birthday with promise to his late friend Doug Scott
BMC unveils ‘brand reset’ after recent troubles
British Mountaineering Council unveils ‘brand reset’ after recent troubles
WIN! a Gregory Stout 70 or Amber 68 pack worth £200
Win a superb Gregory trekking pack in this month’s big competiton
La Sportiva’s Alpine Tech range comes to the UK
La Sportiva Alpine Tech capsule collection available in the UK for first time
Join the Big Hike 2023 with Cancer Research UK
Sign up for a walking challenge in 2023 with Cancer Research UK
Expedition News round-up
As climbers start arriving for the Himalayan spring season, the Eiger witnesses a significant female ascent.
Climb2Recovery veterans complete Alps climb
Successful week in the Alps for Climb2Recovery veterans
Stunning movie ‘The Alpinist’ coming to cinemas this September
Major film release ‘The Alpinist’ documents the life of Canadian climber Marc-Andre Leclerc
T&M Festive Gift Guide
In the run up to Xmas, we showcase some of the season’s best gifts for trekkers and mountaineers…
Sierra Designs launch Meteor 3000 backpacking tent
Colorado-based camping and apparel brand Sierra Designs have announced the Meteor 3000 backpacking tent, a well-featured model which comes in three sizes and appears to offer excellent value-for-money.
Joe Brown 1930-2020
We pay tribute to climbing legend Joe Brown who passed away this week
10th Anniversary Reader Survey & Competition!
Complete our short survey online for a great chance of winning one of £2,000 worth of prizes on offer in our special anniversary competition…
The ultimate wild camping breakfast!
Check out our favourite wild camping breakfast, easily made in four simple steps
How to… Make Your Own Dehydrated Meals
Shop-bought dehydrated meals are expensive and don’t always taste that great – but what’s involved in making your own?…
Nutrition tips for big mountain days
This article refers to those long back to back mountain days that are not an expedition but perhaps a weekend trip or consecutive days out on the mountain but back to accommodation daily, where it is possible to take food supplies and/or purchase from a local shop.
Peak Profile: Creag Meagaidh
Will Harris profiles a rugged and complex mountain that boasts some of Scotland’s best ice climbs…
Peak Profile: Elbrus
Will Harris takes a look at the main routes and logistics for climbing Mount Elbrus
Peak Profile: Ama Dablam
Often described as the most beautiful mountain in the world, the ‘Mother’s Necklace’ doesn’t allow mountaineers easy passage to her highly-prized summit…
How to take better outdoor photos, part 1
The world of photography has changed – digital cameras have removed the mystique from the ‘good old days’ of film photography where photographers had to wait often a week after they returned home to see the results. Now, everybody with a phone or pocket camera can take a photograph, instantly examine it, and take the shot again if it isn’t correct…
Trek & Mountain Xmas Gift Guide 2024
16 great Xmas gift ideas for trekkers and mountaineers
The ultimate wild camping breakfast!
Check out our favourite wild camping breakfast, easily made in four simple steps
Montane unveils new waterproof fabric technology
Montane unveils new waterproof fabric technology called Petrichor
Spring ’24 Product Showcase
We present 16 of the best new outdoor products available this spring
ePE: GORE-TEX’s quiet fabric revolution
Jon Doran reports from a recent event focused on Gore-Tex’s new ePE membranes
La Sportiva’s Alpine Tech range comes to the UK
La Sportiva Alpine Tech capsule collection available in the UK for first time
Hilleberg announce two new models for 2024 – the Saivo 4 and Rogen 3
Two new products from Swedish tentmakers Hilleberg set to land in 2024
Circaloft Jacket latest product in The North Face’s Circular Design initiative
Circaloft Jacket is latest product to come from The North Face’s circular design initiative
Rab to provide Material Facts for its products from this Autumn
Rab to introduce Material Facts info on their products from Autumn 2023
World Backpacker
At World Backpacker we aim to supply a comprehensive range of products to support your adventures, from a long weekend backpacking in the Lake District to an unsupported ‘by any means’ journey through South America – and everything in between. So whether you travel by plane, boat, bus, bike or on foot – we’ve got the kit that you need.
Basecamp Gear
Basecamp Gear is a venture concerned with the supply of camping equipment designed to be used in remote places where quality and reliability are paramount. As our name suggests we supply equipment designed for extended stays in places accessed using vehicles or with limited trekking involved, from the Lake District to the Himalayas.
Ultralight Outdoor Gear
Ultralight Outdoor Gear Ltd. is a venture concerned with the supply of outdoor clothing and equipment for backpacking, trekking, adventure racing and adventure travel. As our name suggests we are only interested in supplying lightweight, functional, best quality gear that supports the concept of backpacking, trekking and travelling unhindered by traditional heavy loads and masses of equipment.
Ellis Brigham
Over 80 years on and Ellis Brigham Mountain Sports is still going strong and is still proudly family owned. We’ve got the world’s best brands and the products that will make your time spent in the mountains even more rewarding. Across the UK we have a network of fantastic shops with friendly, knowledgeable staff that are all enthusiastic about the outdoors and inherently understand your needs.
Clove hitch
This is an extremely useful knot, and it is used throughout all areas of mountaineering. Its simplicity of tying, allied with its ease of adjustment, make it ideal to secure yourself to an anchor system. It can also be tied with one hand, a useful property when needing to arrange an anchor whilst holding on to the rock or an ice axe for security…
‘The Dawn Wall’ trailer
In January, 2015, American rock climbers Tommy Caldwell and Kevin Jorgeson captivated the world with their effort to climb The Dawn Wall, a seemingly impossible 3,000 foot rock face in Yosemite National Park, California.
Cathy O’Dowd: “New Year’s Resolutions – Use your feet!”
Everything in our culture tells us to look forward, reach upwards, eye on the prize, visualise the path to success, shoot for the moon. No day is more imbued with this vision than the first of the new year, when we embark on the cultural ritual of the New Year’s Resolution.
Deuter
From postbags to mountain peaks, Deuter has been creating bags for over 100 years. A market leader in Hiking, Mountaineering, Travel, and Bike packs, Deuter has redefined the rucksack market with its back-system technologies and use of quality materials.
Scarpa
SCARPA, literally the Italian for ‘shoe’. Footwear innovation and tradition share equally deep roots at Scarpa, which today remains a family-owned company with its headquarters and performance footwear manufacturing facilities in the same regions of northern Italy where it all started in 1938.
Houlding and team tame the Spectre
Leo Houlding and his teammates Jean Burgun and Mark Sedon have successfully climbed the Spectre in the Gothic Mountains in Antarctica. They achieved this via a route on the north side of the mountain and have now sent back images and a report to expedition partner Berghaus which can be viewed here.
The Interview: Jeff Lowe
As Lowe Alpine celebrates its 50th anniversary, Dan Aspel talks to the brand’s former ‘chief gear tester’, the legendary Jeff Lowe…
Andy Kirkpatrick: ‘Old School’
The other day I found an old book on my shelf when its tatty green spine caught my eye as I thumbed across the shelf looking for something else. Many times before I had passed it by, but this time my eyes fixed on it and my book blindness, caused by its ever-presence, suddenly lifted…
Petzl Grigri+ review
With the Grigri+, Petzl have fine-tuned their perennially-popular assisted- braking belay device, making it even easier to use for less experienced climbers.
The Skye Trail – Expert Guide
One of the very best backpacking adventures to be had in the British Isles, Alex Kendall gives a day-by-day guide to trekking the stunning Skye Trail…
Corsica GR20
The GR 20 is a long-distance trail that runs roughly north-south along the spine of Corsica. It has been described as ‘Europe’s toughest trek’ and came in at number 8 in Trek & Mountain’s Top 100 Treks poll.
Tour du Mont Blanc
The Tour du Mont Blanc, which takes hikers on a spectacular circuit of Western Europe’s highest peak, is one of the best long-distance treks in the world and ranks at number 3 in Trek & Mountain’s Top 100 Treks poll.
Denali (Mt McKinley)
The highest peak in North America, Denali is an awe-inspiring hulk of a mountain set in the stunningly beautiful Alaskan wilderness.
Ama Dablam
Often judged to be one of the world’s most beautiful mountains, Ama Dablam stands proud from its Himalayan neighbours, an austere pyramid of rock and ice.
North Wales
There are few areas that have as large a quantity of diverse climbing venues in such a small geographical area as North Wales. From adventurous sea cliff climbing to bolted limestone sport routes, through multi-pitch mountain missions to steep roadside bouldering, all can be easily accessed within an hour from the central mountain town of Llanberis.
Peak District
The Peak District is home to the UK’s oldest national park and is steeped in climbing history, with some of the World’s earliest recorder rock climbs established on its crags and the legacy of the Kinder Trespass reminding us of the price paid by previous generations to secure open access for all to our wild spaces.
The Canadian Rockies
The Canadian Rockies provide what is perhaps the most extensive collection of quality ice climbs in the world, with the added bonus that the consistently cold temperatures that chill the entire mountain range mean that there is guaranteed to be ice to climb every season.
Kilimanjaro
Kilimanjaro is the largest free-standing mountain in the world, the highest peak in Africa, and one of the Seven Summits.
Grandes Jorasses
This majestic ridge crest east of the bulky Mont Blanc massif though not of such great height, surpasses it in its northern and western aspects, with its wildness and elegance. The south side, though not elegant, is certainly wild, being defended by disrupted glaciers and thrusting bastions of distorted rock.
Matterhorn
The Matterhorn (Cervin or Monte Cervino) is the epitome of the majestic peak, among the most famous mountains in the world but correspondingly overcrowded. This does not deter most climbers, and even those who think they can resist its popularity usually change their views when they actually see the mountain.
Clove hitch
This is an extremely useful knot, and it is used throughout all areas of mountaineering. Its simplicity of tying, allied with its ease of adjustment, make it ideal to secure yourself to an anchor system. It can also be tied with one hand, a useful property when needing to arrange an anchor whilst holding on to the rock or an ice axe for security…
Deuter
From postbags to mountain peaks, Deuter has been creating bags for over 100 years. A market leader in Hiking, Mountaineering, Travel, and Bike packs, Deuter has redefined the rucksack market with its back-system technologies and use of quality materials.
Scarpa
SCARPA, literally the Italian for ‘shoe’. Footwear innovation and tradition share equally deep roots at Scarpa, which today remains a family-owned company with its headquarters and performance footwear manufacturing facilities in the same regions of northern Italy where it all started in 1938.
Snowcard Insurance
Snowcard has been insuring mountain sports adventure holidays since 1990 and as one of the UK’s longest running specialists in activity holiday travel insurance, Snowcard is regarded as one of the leading choices for insurance in the mountain sports community.
Scarpa Ribelle Mountain Tech OD review
‘Radical’, ‘futuristic’, ‘cutting edge’… we test out Scarpa’s latest lightweight mountaineering boot, the Ribelle Mountain Tech OD
European Outdoor Conservation Association: ‘Making a difference’
In the summer of 2006, a small group of outdoor companies got together with the aim of raising money to put back into the Great Outdoors. They wanted to find a way of funding practical, on-the-ground conservation projects…
Figure-of-eight knot
This is an essential knot, and it can be tied in a number of ways. It is the main method that many people use when tying on to a harness, and when tied slightly differently it is a quick and effective method of tying on to anchors…
St Curig’s Church, Capel Curig
St Curig’s Church is a quirky and wonderful self-catering property in the heart of Snowdonia. A great place to stay for a training or teambuilding weekend, a first aid course or an outdoorsy stag or hen do. It’s probably true to say that there’s nowhere else quite like this in Snowdonia. Ancient and modern stylishly combine in this beautiful home set within a 19th century church in the village of Capel Curig.
Petzl
Petzl designs and manufactures tough, reliable products with maximum versatility for all vertical terrain: climbing, mountaineering, ice climbing, etc. By being at the heart of these activities, Petzl have accumulated a wide range of experience that today directly benefits the entire line of Petzl products.
Preparing for glacial crossing
Preparation for glacier crossing should be meticulously prepared and rehearsed, so that no time is wasted either setting up the basic moving-together system or any of the techniques that may subseqently follow…
Ski mountaineering – packing your bag part 1
Here Mark is looking at what you should pack for a day out ski-touring in the Scottish hills.
Testing the snow pack
There are a number of tests that can be done to assess the state of the snow. None of these should be taken in isolation, but used to help build up a picture of what the snow conditions in that immediate area are likely to be…
A Beginner’s Guide to Backcountry Ski Touring
With more and more of us exploring the winter mountains on skis, Sophie Nicholson examines the appeal of backcountry skiing and advises on how you can do it too
Q&A: Tania Noakes
We talk to British Mountain Guide Tania Noakes about her recent 2500km traverse of Norway on skis…
Expedition medicine, part 1
Dr Raj Joshi kicks off our series on medical matters for trekkers and mountaineers with a look at some pre-trip basics…
Skiing safely in a group
Alex Parmenter, one of Glenmore Lodge’s instructors, talks about how to ski safely in a group and particularly how to ski in a group when terrain is prone to avalanche. He explains why this is important to the skier off-piste.
Ben Tibbetts: “A Line In The Snow – Greece”
“Skiing in Greece? Really?” was the usual response when we said where we were going. With a desperate lack of snow in the Alps we were looking as far away as Morocco and Nepal for inspiration. We had been told that there was good snow in Greece, but we didn’t quite believe it.
Deuter
From postbags to mountain peaks, Deuter has been creating bags for over 100 years. A market leader in Hiking, Mountaineering, Travel, and Bike packs, Deuter has redefined the rucksack market with its back-system technologies and use of quality materials.
Ski mountaineering – packing your bag part 1
Here Mark is looking at what you should pack for a day out ski-touring in the Scottish hills.
Testing the snow pack
There are a number of tests that can be done to assess the state of the snow. None of these should be taken in isolation, but used to help build up a picture of what the snow conditions in that immediate area are likely to be…
Dynafit HOJI Pro Tour review
Sophie Nicholson previews an innovative ski touring boot that promises superior downhill performance…
A Beginner’s Guide to Backcountry Ski Touring
With more and more of us exploring the winter mountains on skis, Sophie Nicholson examines the appeal of backcountry skiing and advises on how you can do it too
Rab Microlight Summit Jacket review
Rab’s new top-tier Microlight Down Jacket has a secret weapon in the shape of futuristic Pertex Infinity Weave fabric straight out of The Matrix. It eliminates stitch-lines between baffles, which in turn improves wind resistance in bitter arctic gales.
Q&A: Tania Noakes
We talk to British Mountain Guide Tania Noakes about her recent 2500km traverse of Norway on skis…
Skiing safely in a group
Alex Parmenter, one of Glenmore Lodge’s instructors, talks about how to ski safely in a group and particularly how to ski in a group when terrain is prone to avalanche. He explains why this is important to the skier off-piste.
Ben Tibbetts: “A Line In The Snow – Greece”
“Skiing in Greece? Really?” was the usual response when we said where we were going. With a desperate lack of snow in the Alps we were looking as far away as Morocco and Nepal for inspiration. We had been told that there was good snow in Greece, but we didn’t quite believe it.
Arc’teryx Procline Carbon Lite
A ski boot that climbs, or a climbing boot that skis? We test out Arc’teryx’s new ski alpinism boot that promises you the best of both worlds…
Essential backcountry ski techniques
An introduction and reminder of the ski techniques that are an essential part of every backcountry skiers skill set.
Dynafit HOJI Pro Tour review
Sophie Nicholson previews an innovative ski touring boot that promises superior downhill performance…
Arc’teryx Procline Carbon Lite
A ski boot that climbs, or a climbing boot that skis? We test out Arc’teryx’s new ski alpinism boot that promises you the best of both worlds…
The ultimate wild camping breakfast!
Check out our favourite wild camping breakfast, easily made in four simple steps
Arc’teryx Climb Academy 2024 report
We report from the 2024 Arc’teryx Climb Academy event held in the Langdale Valley this May
Preparing for glacial crossing
Preparation for glacier crossing should be meticulously prepared and rehearsed, so that no time is wasted either setting up the basic moving-together system or any of the techniques that may subseqently follow…
Testing the snow pack
There are a number of tests that can be done to assess the state of the snow. None of these should be taken in isolation, but used to help build up a picture of what the snow conditions in that immediate area are likely to be…
How to… Make Your Own Dehydrated Meals
Shop-bought dehydrated meals are expensive and don’t always taste that great – but what’s involved in making your own?…
Clove hitch
This is an extremely useful knot, and it is used throughout all areas of mountaineering. Its simplicity of tying, allied with its ease of adjustment, make it ideal to secure yourself to an anchor system. It can also be tied with one hand, a useful property when needing to arrange an anchor whilst holding on to the rock or an ice axe for security…
Expedition medicine, part 1
Dr Raj Joshi kicks off our series on medical matters for trekkers and mountaineers with a look at some pre-trip basics…
Nutrition tips for big mountain days
This article refers to those long back to back mountain days that are not an expedition but perhaps a weekend trip or consecutive days out on the mountain but back to accommodation daily, where it is possible to take food supplies and/or purchase from a local shop.
Emergency shelters
An emergency shelter is exactly that, designed to be used only when dire straits dictate that safety from the elements has to be sought, perhaps when your partner is injured or extremes of weather make movement impossible.
Ski mountaineering – packing your bag part 1
Here Mark is looking at what you should pack for a day out ski-touring in the Scottish hills.
Skiing safely in a group
Alex Parmenter, one of Glenmore Lodge’s instructors, talks about how to ski safely in a group and particularly how to ski in a group when terrain is prone to avalanche. He explains why this is important to the skier off-piste.
Climbing and protecting steeper mixed ground
Winter skills 4.4: climbing and protecting steeper mixed ground. Expert tips for winter climbing. Climbing and protecting steeper mixed ground.
Best Lightweight Down Sleeping Bags 2023
We try out eight of the best lightweight down sleeping bags on the market today
The Big Question: Should I get a down or synthetic sleeping bag?
If you’re in the market for a new sleeping bag, there’s one obvious big question: do you opt for natural down filling or a synthetic alternative?
Deuter Exosphere 0˚C Sleeping Bag review
Jon Doran tries out an unusual synthetic-filled sleeping bag with a gently body-hugging stretch seam construction that really does up both comfort and efficiency – if you’re a restless outdoors sleeper, this could be the bag for you.
How to choose a sleeping bag
Here’s the thing. No-one ever really regretted a sleeping bag that was slightly too warm, but there’s nothing more miserable than shivering all night in a bag that’s simply not warm enough…
Rab Mythic 200/400/600 review
We test out the new range of Rab Mythic sleeping bags, which offer superb warmth-to-weight performance
Patagonia 850 Down Sleeping Bag -7 review
This spring Patagonia launch their first ever sleeping bag range, consisting of two down-filled models – we grabbed the 3-season model to try out…
Salewa Fusion Hybrid -8 review
Salewa’s latest sleeping bag uses Primaloft’s innovative new Down Blend which combines down with synthetic fibres, but does it deliver the best of both worlds? We find out…
Rab Infinity 300 review
Rab’s new Infinity 300 down bag offers low weight and high packability – but how does it fare in the warmth stakes?
Snugpak Chrysalis 3 review
We’ve always had a soft spot for Snugpak’s sleeping bags. Although not the lightest available, they always seem to offer plenty of warmth and features, nice designs and quality construction, as well as an affordable pricetag. And they’re British made! So how does the new Chrysalis 3 fare?
Sea to Summit Ether Light XT Insulated Mat review
Jon Doran tries out a warm, comfortable and decently light sleeping mat from Sea to Summit…
Exped Downmat 7 review
Rhys Jones tries out this luxury mat on back-to-back trips to Kili, but how does it stack up?
Arc’teryx Gamma SL Hoody Men’s review
We test a summer-weight softshell jacket from the Canadian uber brand Arc’teryx…
The Big Question: How many pockets do you (really) need?
How many pockets – and what kind – do you need on your hardshell jacket? Jon Doran gives the lowdown on this important yet seldom discussed aspect of clothing design…
The Big Question: What the hell is softshell?
Softshell. Or maybe soft shell. An enigma disguised as a riddle. wrapped in a conundrum and spun into the ultimate in confusing outdoor clothing concept. It’s almost easier to say what a softshell isn’t than what it is…
Best of British – 20 Epic Mountain Adventures To Do This Year
As the prospects for global travel in the coming months remain uncertain, Rebecca Coles suggests 20 epic homegrown mountain adventures to keep us busy during the year ahead…
A Beginner’s Guide to Backcountry Ski Touring
With more and more of us exploring the winter mountains on skis, Sophie Nicholson examines the appeal of backcountry skiing and advises on how you can do it too
Where to trek in 2019
Looking to plan a big trip in 2019? We spoke to seven of the leading trekking/expedition companies to get their recommendations for which treks and peaks to consider visiting in the coming year…
Ueli Steck 1976-2017
We take a look back on the life of Ueli Steck, one of the greatest alpinists of his era and a much-loved character among mountaineering communities around the world…
Trek & Mountain GREEN GEAR GUIDE 2023
A selection of this year’s greenest outdoor products selected by Trek & Mountain
WIN! The North Face Torre Egger Jacket and Pant worth £985
The North Face Torre Egger Jacket and Pant up for grabs
The Sanctity Of Space trailer
Join renowned climbers Renan Ozturk and Freddie Wilkinson in the ultimate adventure
WIN! a place on the Salewa Alpine Campus, 13-15 May, the Lake District
Your chance to grab a place on the inaugural Salewa Alpine Campus in the Lake District this May
Keen Ridge Flex Waterproof Hiking Boots review
Chris Kempster tries out a hiking boot that features Keen’s new bellows flex technology…
Polartec Family Album Photo Contest
Polartec are celebrating their 30th anniversary with their Family Album Photo Contest
Rab Mythic Ultra sleeping bag
Preview of the new Rab Mythic Ultra lightweight sleeping bags
The Performance Edge, Episode 6 – Jon Gupta
Montane athlete Jon Gupta talks about the reward of success and managing risk whilst on the Denali leg of his and Steve Plain’s ‘7in4’ expedition.
VIDEO: Stok Kangri training weekend
The Peak District was the venue for the recent Trek & Mountain Stok Kangri Expedition 2015 training weekend, and our team of readers met up to find out more about the trek from the trek organisers Peak Mountaineering and of course meet their team mates for the first time! The expedition sponsors Rab and Lowe Alpine were also on hand to talk about …
Primus ETA Express review
A compact gas cooking system designed for solo trips, the ETA Express kit comprises a gas burner unit, 1-litre non-stick pan with integral handle, windshield, transparent plastic lid with silicone grip, a plastic bowl and storage bags for both the stove and burner.
Trekmates Flameless Cook System Flask review
A cooking system without a flame in sight? We investigate further…
Tour du Mont Blanc
The Tour du Mont Blanc, which takes hikers on a spectacular circuit of Western Europe’s highest peak, is one of the best long-distance treks in the world and ranks at number 3 in Trek & Mountain’s Top 100 Treks poll.
Matterhorn
The Matterhorn (Cervin or Monte Cervino) is the epitome of the majestic peak, among the most famous mountains in the world but correspondingly overcrowded. This does not deter most climbers, and even those who think they can resist its popularity usually change their views when they actually see the mountain.
Eiger
Located in the Swiss Alps, the Eiger is one of the world’s most iconic mountains, made famous by the often tragedy-marred attempts to make the first ascent of its huge north face.
WIN a pair of tickets to Base Camp Festival 2025!
A chance to win yourself two tickets to next year’s Base Camp Festivall
Trek & Mountain presents… Base Camp Festival 2025!
Trek & Mountain announces the acquisition of Base Camp Festival
Less than a month to go to the Moffat Mountain Rescue Team Annual Charity Challenge
Sign up for the Moffat Mountain Rescue Team Annual Challenge on 9th June
TV broadcaster Paul Murton encourages walkers to explore with Cowalfest
TV broadcaster Paul Murton encourages walkers to explore with Cowalfest
Arc’teryx Climb Academy returns to Lake District
Arc’teryx announce 2024 dates for the Climb Academy in the Lake District
T&M ‘Mountain Quiz and Pizza night’ at Fort William Mountain Festival
Trek & Mountain once again hosts its popular Mountain Quiz and Pizza night at Fort William Mountain Festival
Trek & Mountain to co-host Fort William Mountain Festival launch night
Details of the 2023 Fort William Mountain Festival launch night
Join the Big Hike 2023 with Cancer Research UK
Sign up for a walking challenge in 2023 with Cancer Research UK
Kilimanjaro
Kilimanjaro is the largest free-standing mountain in the world, the highest peak in Africa, and one of the Seven Summits.
First Look: Sierra Designs Meteor 3000
A two-person tent built for UK conditions and featuring a spacious, freestanding design – Chris Kempster goes wild (camping) for the latest product from California-based Sierra Designs…
Hilleberg Anaris review
Hilleberg just released their first trekking pole-supported tent since 1973. RICHARD HARTFIELD tests how it stands up against the new generation of lightweight backpacking shelters…
Vaude Hogan SUL 1-2P review
The Hogan SUL 1-2P is based on a tried-and-tested configuration that has been used by Vaude for a number of years on tents such as the Taurus and Terratrio, namely one pole running lengthwise down the spine of the tent and one pole crossing at the entrance to form a vestibule at one end.
Hilleberg Enan review
The Enan is a very light, very strong, three-season tent
Hilleberg Anjan 2 review
The Anjan 2 was designed as a very light tent for mobile adventures in warmer and snow-free conditions
Terra Nova Laser Competition 2 review
The Laser Competition 2 tent offers a mix of super-low weight and added comfort
Mountain Hardwear Ghost UL 1 review
Mountain Hardware’s lightest double wall two-person tent
Nigor PioPio Solo review
An ultralite one person tent with a lot of space inside
MSR Carbon Reflex 1 review
An ultralight and double-walled 1-person backpacking tent for three seasons
Nordisk Telemark 2 ULW review
The Telemark 2 is a lightweight tent, that doesn’t compromise on function nor comfort.
Tom Livingstone: ‘Sugar Rush’
A visit to Red Walls should contain as much excitement as nervousness. This piece describes two days of trad climbing with John Orr and Tim Neill at Red Walls – one of the finest crags at Gogarth.
Top 100 Treks – The World’s Best Trails
Everest Base Camp. Kilimanjaro. Appalachian Trail. Tour du Mont Blanc. What IS the best trek in the world? That’s the million-dollar question we set out to answer with the launch of our first ever Top 100 Treks poll…
Top 100 Lightweight Tips
You want to travel faster and lighter, but how can you reduce your weight to the absolute minimum? We bring you 100 of the best tips for trimming off the grams…
Arc’teryx Kragg, Sylan GTX and Vertex Alpine shoes
We test out three new technical shoes from Arc’teryx’s spring/summer 2024 range
Inov-8 Terraultra G 260 review
‘It is, says inov-8, ‘the world’s toughest shoe for running the world’s toughest long-distance trails’, but it’s also quite good for shorter runs in the Peak District’ – Jon Doran goes for a run to test out these claims (especially the second bit).
Arc’teryx Climb Academy returns to Lake District
Arc’teryx announce 2024 dates for the Climb Academy in the Lake District
Calling all female mountaineers!
Female mountaineers wanted for Montane and Trek & Mountain’s new mentoring programme
Arc’teryx launches first online skills academy
Arc’tery will be offering skill-based clinics, seminars and more during week-long 2020 Digital Climbing Academy…
Arc’teryx Alpine Academy clinics now online
Registration for the Arc’teryx Alpine Academy 2018 is fast approaching, and you can now all the clinics that are available at this year’s event on the dedicated website.
Training for trekking, part 2
Indentifying and correcting any physical weaknesses or imbalances you have can make a big difference to your performance, says Nik Cook If you’re spending the money and taking the time to embark on a long overseas trek then ensuring you’re in the best possible condition when you hit the trail is a no-brainer. Although many people will argue that you …
Training for trekking, part 1
In the first of the series, Nik Cook looks at how to pack and what other pre-trip preparation you need to think about… If you’re going on an overseas trekking trip, then getting your kit right, along with ensuring you’re physically prepared, should be top of your priorities. Nothing is more frustrating, or unnecessary, than failing to summit or complete …
The Mountain Company
The Mountain Company is an award-winning adventure travel operator specialising in cultural tours, treks and expeditions to the Himalaya and Karakoram.
Mountain Kingdoms
Mountain Kingdoms is an independent, UK based, small group adventure holiday specialist with over 30 years’ experience. Primarily offering worldwide walking holidays, pioneering and classic treks, and trekking peak expeditions.
Adventure Consultants
Adventure Consultants is a world-renowned mountain guiding company with a legacy of climbing expeditions to the world’s highest peaks, and treks to the more remote corners of the globe.
Icicle Mountaineering
Icicle was founded back in 2000, and we offer guided adventures to climb, trek, ski, and run, in mountains all around the world. We are based in Windermere, in the heart of the Lake District National Park, where we have a course base and shop. We focus on offering instructional courses to help build people’s autonomy, and are proud to be a small specialist company which has a very personal approach.
Jagged Globe
For 30 years Jagged Globe has been at the forefront of professionally led mountaineering expeditions, mountaineering courses, adventurous skiing and high-altitude treks. With Jagged Globe you can climb the Seven Summits, trek to Everest Base Camp, improve your off-piste skiing or develop your mountaineering skills.
Keen NXIS EVO Waterproof Boot review
Keen’s latest boot is aimed at fast hikers and combines durable materials with a lightweight design…
First Look: La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX
La Sportiva’s Ultra Raptor trail running shoe has always been popular with fast hikers, and now the Italian brand has come up with a mid boot version specifically for hiking – Chris Kempster takes it for a spin…
Keen Ridge Flex Waterproof Hiking Boots review
Chris Kempster tries out a hiking boot that features Keen’s new bellows flex technology…
Hanwag Banks GTX review
With the warmer months finally here, Chris Kempster tries out a lightweight 3-season walking boot that offers superb comfort and stability combined with a stylish design…
First Look: Mammut Rime Light Flex Hooded Jacket, Crater Hooded Jacket & Ducan Pro High GTX Boot
Jon Doran tries out three of Mammut’s new autumn/winter products to see if the Swiss brand’s ‘Absolute Alpine’ ethos translates into damp British conditions…
Keen Karraig Women’s boot review
Amanda Travis tests Keen’s new, more technical women’s trekking boots…
First Look: AKU Trekker Pro GTX
Just arrived and new for spring 2019 is the northern Italian-developed AKU Trekker Pro GTX boot and it should be worth considering if you’re after a fabric-based, three-season all-round hiking and trekking boot…
Asolo Greenwood GV walking boots review
Jon Doran makes acquaintance with a “handsome, solid leather, three-season hiking boot with a solid, supportive feel for people who like handsome, solid supportive boots”
KEEN Karraig review
Jon Doran tries out a really nice, broad-fitting, all-round mountain walking boot which features traditionally high ankle cuffs and traditional underfoot lateral stiffness, but without the accompanying discomfort or clumpiness.
Keen Liberty Ridge review
We travel to the Balkans to try out Keen’s latest European Made hiking boot…
First Look: Leki Black Series Micro Vario Carbon trekking poles £194.95
The new for spring 2019 Leki Black Series Micro Vario Carbon trekking poles, MVC for short, cost almost £200 per pair. That’s a cool £50 than the standard version of the pole and well over twice as expensive as a lightweight Leki alloy pole that weighs only slightly more…
Top 100 Treks poll and competition!
Vote for your favourite treks for a chance to win a dream trekking holiday to Nepal, courtesy of World Expeditions! Everest Base Camp? Kilimanjaro? Appalachian Trail? Tour du Mont Blanc? What IS the best trek in the world? That’s the million-dollar question we are aiming to answer with the launch of our first ever Top 100 Treks poll, where YOU decide …
Feature: Winter Mountaineering on Ben Nevis
British Mountain Guide James Thacker gives an overview of the routes that aspiring winter climbers could find themselves on… Ben Nevis needs little in the way of introduction, being the highest mountain in the UK at 1344m above sea level. The winter climbing jewel in Scotland’s crown is an obvious target for winter warriors from around the world; with …
Island Peak
Offering trekkers the chance to climb a 6000m peak with just some basic mountaineering skills, Island Peak is an ideal first Himalayan summit says Jon Gupta Island Peak – or Imja Tse as it is know locally – is a tantalising prospect. At 6,189m it tips over the magical 20,000ft threshold and is a justifiably popular mountain. Soaring high into …
Tour du Mont Blanc
Kev Reynolds on one of the all-time classic alpine treks… Ten passes, seven valleys and three countries makes a crude summary of one of the world’s most famous mountain treks. The popularity of this wonderful multi-day tour endures not because of numbers, but through the ever-evolving grandeur of the scenes along the trail. With Chamonix below its north flank and …
Routes: North Face of the Eiger
Stephen Venables on one of the most iconic routes in mountaineering Dick Renshaw, who made the first British winter ascent with Joe Tasker, once said to me, “it’s simply the best route in the Alps”. The North Face of the Eiger weaves a cunning and beautifully logical line up the most awesome mountain wall in Europe and because of its …
Routes: Aconcagua
Jim Ryan outlines the main trekking routes on Aconcagua As with any mountain, there are numerous routes up Aconcagua. The majority are categorised as extremely difficult, but there are two routes that require minimal technical expertise (i.e. they can be trekked) – the Normal Route and the Vacas Valley. The Normal Route is shorter by at least two days than …
Kilimanjaro Shira and Lemosho
Henry Stedman discusses the two routes that cross the centre of the Shira Plateau The Shira Plateau and Lemosho routes (6-8 days each) run from west to east across the centre of the Shira Plateau towards the Kibo summit. The Shira Plateau route is the original plateau trail though it is seldom used these days; much of it is now …
Kilimanjaro Marangu Route
The Marangu is the traditional route up Kili, and has its own advantages and disadvantages… The Marangu Route is the oldest trail and has always been a very popular route. It is also the only ascent trail where camping is not necessary – indeed not allowed – with trekkers sleeping in dormitory huts along the way (which makes it the …
British mountaineer Adriana Brownlee becomes youngest woman to summit all 14 8000m peaks
British mountaineer Adriana Brownlee becomes youngest woman to summit all 8000ers
Victor Saunders and Mick Fowler make first ascent of Yawash Sar
Veteran duo Mick Fowler and Victor Saunders make first ascent in Karakoram
560-mile Northern Trek connects two countries and four national parks
Newly-created 560-mile trail The Northern Trek connects four national parks
Ramsden and Miller scoop Piolet d’Or with Jugal Spire ascent
Paul Ramsden and Tim Miller pick up a Piolet d’Or for their ascent if Jugal Spire
Double-amputee Hari Budha Magar summits Everest
Former Gurkha double-amputee reaches Everest summit
Expedition News round-up
As climbers start arriving for the Himalayan spring season, the Eiger witnesses a significant female ascent.
Climb2Recovery veterans complete Alps climb
Successful week in the Alps for Climb2Recovery veterans
Historic first winter ascent of K2 completed by all-Nepali team
4th January 2021FacebookTwitterPrintemailNoone has commented on this article yet. Have your say…Filed under: Competitions, News, BMC Spread the Word campaignThe British Mountaineering Council (BMC) is running a competition in January and February in which you can win amazing prizes simply by recommending a friend join up. If a friend signs up for membership on your recommendation, you could win a …
Parks to climb Everest for science
Richard Parks has announced his upcoming project to become the first person in history to collect a blood sample and muscle biopsy from the summit of Mount Everest, which he aims climb without using supplemental oxygen.
Bolivian 3 Peaks Expedition – Illimani, Pequeno Alpamayo and Huayna Potosi
In 2017 Trek & Mountain returns to South America for an amazing trekking and mountaineering trip, and YOU could be on the team! The destination is Bolivia, and our objectives are threefold – Huayna Potosi (6,088m), Pequeno Alpamayo (5,410m) and the mighty Illimani (6,438m). The expedition will be led by Gavin Bate, head honcho at Adventure Alternative, one of the UK’s …
Sherpa killed in Ama Dablam avalanche
Lakpa Thindu Sherpa from Dingboche has been killed in an avalanche on Ama Dablam triggered by a 5.6 magnitude earthquake at about 5.20am Nepal time. A British climber, Ciaran Hill, was also injured but has been airlifted to safety, Trek & Mountain contributor Jon Gupta, part of the team climbing on Ama Dablam, was first on the scene and this …
Kilian Jornet to attempt speed record on Everest
After breaking records on mountains around the world, Kilian Jornet, in the final part of his ‘Summits of my Life’ project will be attempting to establish the record for ascending Everest, by a little-used route on the north face of the peak. The expedition is to take place in August and September and will be undertaken in alpine-style, the purest and most …
First British ascent of Infinite Spur on Mt Foraker, Alaska
British alpinists Will Harris, Ben Silvestre and Pete Graham have completed what is thought to be the first British ascent of Infinite Spur on Alaska’s second-highest peak, Mt Foraker. The ridge, which soars almost 9,000 feel up the south face of Foraker, has only been climbed a handful of times, with the first ascent by Michael kennedy and George Lowe …
Leo Houlding completes 1,000-mile Greenland expedition
That man Leo Houlding has been at it again! During his latest project the climber and adventurer has completed an unsupported 1,000 mile snowkiting expedition across the Greenland ice cap. Houlding was accompanied by friend and experienced snowkiter Bruce Corrie, and they covered the distance in under three weeks, despite being confined to their tent for days in a row during …
T&M readers tick off three Himalayan 6,000ers
At the end of April, a tired but jubilant team of Trek & Mountain readers returned to the UK having enjoyed a month-long journey through the colourful mountains, culture and characters of Nepal. The Khumbu 3 Peaks 2016 expedition was always going to be challenging – after all, one 6,000m peak is no small deal, let alone three – but …
T&M reader team tops out on Mera Peak
On 10th April, 10 of Trek & Mountain’s Khumbu 3 Peaks 2016 team topped out on Mera Peak (6,476m), with a further teammember topping out on Mera’s trekking peak. Conditions were cold and windy but the views from the top were spectacular. The team descended to Mera High Camp before continuing with porters/tents down to the Mera La and all the …
Nanga Parbat climbed in winter for first time
Nanga Parbat (8,126m), the ninth highest mountain in the world and often called the ‘Killer Mountain’, has been summited for the first time in winter. At the end of 2015, The North Face alpinists Simone Moro (Italy) and Tamara Lunger (Italy) set out from Europe to attempt the first winter ascent of Nanga Parbat and after more than 80 days …
Youngest Brit to complete solo South Pole trek
30-year-old Luke Robertson from Edinburgh has completed a solo, unassisted and unsupported expedition to the South Pole, skiing across Antarctica for 39 days, becoming the youngest Brit and first Scot to complete such a journey.
North Wales
There are few areas that have as large a quantity of diverse climbing venues in such a small geographical area as North Wales. From adventurous sea cliff climbing to bolted limestone sport routes, through multi-pitch mountain missions to steep roadside bouldering, all can be easily accessed within an hour from the central mountain town of Llanberis.
Peak District
The Peak District is home to the UK’s oldest national park and is steeped in climbing history, with some of the World’s earliest recorder rock climbs established on its crags and the legacy of the Kinder Trespass reminding us of the price paid by previous generations to secure open access for all to our wild spaces.
Sir Chris Bonington turns 90 and vows to fulfil promise to Doug Scott
Sir Chris Bonington marks 90th birthday with promise to his late friend Doug Scott
BMC unveils ‘brand reset’ after recent troubles
British Mountaineering Council unveils ‘brand reset’ after recent troubles
560-mile Northern Trek connects two countries and four national parks
Newly-created 560-mile trail The Northern Trek connects four national parks
Arc’teryx Climb Academy returns to Lake District
Arc’teryx announce 2024 dates for the Climb Academy in the Lake District
Climb Tower Ridge with Adele Pennington, in the latest issue of Trek & Mountain
A peak inside the latest edition of Trek & Mountain….
Mountain Rescue expert Heavy Whalley receives top award
David Heavy Whalley wins top award for services to mountain rescue
Outdoor industry rallies to send aid to Ukraine
Outdoor industry rallies to send much-needed aid to Ukraine
BMC launch ‘Respect The Wild’ campaign
As Britain escapes lockdown, home-grown adventure is set to explode this summer. But what special skills do you need to know if you’re heading up into the wilds of our hills and mountains?…
Earth Day 2021: Rab and Lowe Alpine launch #RabLitterLift social media initiative
Equip brands ask their community to join them on a global litter pick initiative ahead of launching their first Rab DNA Sustainability Report…
National Parks brace for ‘staycation’ summer
Will we see a repeat of last year’s carnage in the UK’s National Parks?
Arc’teryx Kragg, Sylan GTX and Vertex Alpine shoes
We test out three new technical shoes from Arc’teryx’s spring/summer 2024 range
Montane challenges customers to ‘Find Your Alive’ with new AW21 Collection
Montane Challenges Customers to ‘Find Your Alive’ With New AW21 Collection
UK retailer Trekitt encourages consumers to ‘spend consciously’ this Earth Day
British retailer Trekitt encourages responsible purchasing of outdoor products
Darn Tough socks offer unconditional guarantee
Socks can be a treated as a bit of an afterthought when it comes to kit buying, but a bad pair can ruin your day on the hill in a very direct, uncomfortable way.
Kickstarter’s Greatest (Outdoor) Hits
On the face of it, crowd-funding websites like Kickstarter and Indiegogo should be an ideal way of creating all sorts of slightly leftfield outdoor kit. You know, the stuff you always thought would be great, but none of the established mainstream outdoor brands think it’s worth producing.
Inov-8 Terraultra G 260 review
‘It is, says inov-8, ‘the world’s toughest shoe for running the world’s toughest long-distance trails’, but it’s also quite good for shorter runs in the Peak District’ – Jon Doran goes for a run to test out these claims (especially the second bit).
The Big Question: Which rubber sole is the stickiest?
If you’re a climber, walker, mountaineer or runner, you’re pretty much dependent on the rubber on the soles of your shoes or boots to keep things sunnyside up or, in the worst case scenario, for stopping you cratering. But mostly we just take rubber compounds and technology for granted. So what’s going on? What makes one brand’s sole unit stickier than another’s and who makes the stickiest rubber soles?
Saxx Kinetic Boxer Brief review
Jon Doran reports on some men’s underwear that supports your… umm… ‘assets’.. better than standard briefs
Denali (Mt McKinley)
The highest peak in North America, Denali is an awe-inspiring hulk of a mountain set in the stunningly beautiful Alaskan wilderness.
Using fixed lines, part 1
On big peaks it’s routine to make use of fixed lines (or ropes), but how do they work? In this series, Tim Mosedale explains the methods he uses when leading high-altitude expeditions… Whether you love or loathe the idea, a lot of the big mountains usually have sections of what we call ‘fixed ropes’ put in place to allow expedition …
Safety on a via ferrata circuit
Although it may feel that you are in a clinical environment, you need to keep your wits about you when going round the circuit, and knowing how to deal effectively with all possible hazards is essential…
A Cold Embrace, with Sir Chris Bonington
Sir Chris Bonington talks about enduring and enjoying the cold in high places
The Phantom Line/Jugal Spire: the Piolets d’Or-winning climb by Tim Miller and Paul Ramsden
Film of Paul Ramsden and Tim Miller’s new route The Phantom Line on Jugal Spire
Mick Fowler: Taxman, Cancer Survivor and The World’s Greatest Amateur Climber
Lovely film about the ‘climbing taxman’, Mick Fowler, one of Britain’s great climbers
Ascend: Forced to flee the Taliban, Afghan women find a home in climbing
Forced to flee the Taliban, Afghan women find a home in climbing in this film from Patagonia Films
Petzl RocTrip 2022: A Story of Manikia
The Petzl ROC Trip is back and in 2022 visits Manikia in Greece
The Longest Line – full film
Join Calum Maclean and Jenny Graham as they walk The Longest Line
The Sanctity Of Space trailer
Join renowned climbers Renan Ozturk and Freddie Wilkinson in the ultimate adventure
The Alpinist – teaser
Alex Honnold and Barry Blanchard talk about Marc-Andre Leclerc
Kingsley Jones: Alpine Diary, part 7 – Land of Rock and Fire
You’d be excused for thinking this was a blog about Iceland, with a title of ‘Land of Rock and Fire’, but no, it’s a Chamonix and alpine conditions update!
Mountain Kingdoms
Mountain Kingdoms is an independent, UK based, small group adventure holiday specialist with over 30 years’ experience. Primarily offering worldwide walking holidays, pioneering and classic treks, and trekking peak expeditions.
Corsica GR20
The GR 20 is a long-distance trail that runs roughly north-south along the spine of Corsica. It has been described as ‘Europe’s toughest trek’ and came in at number 8 in Trek & Mountain’s Top 100 Treks poll.
Expedition medicine, part 1
Dr Raj Joshi kicks off our series on medical matters for trekkers and mountaineers with a look at some pre-trip basics…
Deuter
From postbags to mountain peaks, Deuter has been creating bags for over 100 years. A market leader in Hiking, Mountaineering, Travel, and Bike packs, Deuter has redefined the rucksack market with its back-system technologies and use of quality materials.
Scarpa
SCARPA, literally the Italian for ‘shoe’. Footwear innovation and tradition share equally deep roots at Scarpa, which today remains a family-owned company with its headquarters and performance footwear manufacturing facilities in the same regions of northern Italy where it all started in 1938.
Tour du Mont Blanc
The Tour du Mont Blanc, which takes hikers on a spectacular circuit of Western Europe’s highest peak, is one of the best long-distance treks in the world and ranks at number 3 in Trek & Mountain’s Top 100 Treks poll.
Adventure Consultants
Adventure Consultants is a world-renowned mountain guiding company with a legacy of climbing expeditions to the world’s highest peaks, and treks to the more remote corners of the globe.
Vaude Hogan SUL 1-2P review
The Hogan SUL 1-2P is based on a tried-and-tested configuration that has been used by Vaude for a number of years on tents such as the Taurus and Terratrio, namely one pole running lengthwise down the spine of the tent and one pole crossing at the entrance to form a vestibule at one end.
Arc’teryx Kragg, Sylan GTX and Vertex Alpine shoes
We test out three new technical shoes from Arc’teryx’s spring/summer 2024 range
COROS VERTIX 2 GPS Adventure Watch review
Jon Doran reports on the latest outdoor GPS watch from COROS
Promoted Feature: Time Outdoors Is Time Well Spent – Marloe Watch Company
Why do the traditional mechanical timepieces of Marloe Watch Company attract outdoor users? We talk to ‘superfan’ Alan Lewis to find out…
Garmin Fenix review
ABC watches (Altitude/Barometer/Compass) have been a fixture on the wrists of guides, trekkers and mountaineers for a while now, but the bar is about to be well and truly raised by the next generation of adventurer’s watches…
The Big Question: What type of water filter do I need?
Which water filter is best suited to your needs? Jon Doran takes a look at the different types that are currently available…
Katadyn BeFree 0.6L review
Amanda Travis tries out a lightweight and easy-to-use water filter…
First look: Rab Ladakh GTX Jacket review
Jon Doran tries out an all-round waterproof mountain shell with helmet hood that’ll cope with anything from UK mountain walking through to the Alps and beyond…
The Big Question: How many pockets do you (really) need?
How many pockets – and what kind – do you need on your hardshell jacket? Jon Doran gives the lowdown on this important yet seldom discussed aspect of clothing design…
Alpkit Balance waterproof jacket review
The Alpkit Balance is an excellent, middle-ground walking and trekking shell at a very competitive price. Jon Doran gives the low down…
The Big Question: Waterproof fabric numbers – what do they mean?
Do some basic research into waterproof outdoor fabrics and jackets and you’ll soon wander into swampy groves of statistics: Hydrostatic Head? MVTR? 40 Denier? What do they all mean and can they help you choose the right waterproof jacket?
Rab Kinetic Alpine Jacket review
Rab’s new-for-spring 2019 Kinetic Alpine Jacket is the more mountain-friendly successor to the original – and rather brilliant – Kinetic Plus Jacket…
Haglöfs Kabi (K2) Jacket & Aran (Valley) Jacket review
Amanda Travis tests two pieces from Haglöfs’ new Edurne Pasaban collection, named after the first woman to climb the world’s 8,000m peaks…
Jöttnar Hymir Hardshell Smock review
We try a lightweight technical smock aimed primarily at climbers and mountaineers but eminently suitable for other users too.
Berghaus Extrem 8000 Pro Jacket review
Berghaus believe the new Extrem 8000 Pro is the ‘most advanced mountaineering jacket’ available – we took it to Nepal to test their claim…
Paramo Men’s Pasco review
The Pasco was introduced this winter and uses Nikwax’s full-weight Analogy fabric. This is constructed from a sandwich of wind and waterproof face fabric combined with a furry inner ‘pump’ layer which helps transmit moisture away from the skin.
Marmot Speedri review
Manufacturers’ own waterproof/breathable fabrics can sometimes seem a bit unsexy compared with the latest Gore-Tex, eVent or Polartec offering, but Marmot’s Membrain FusionDri as featured on the new Speedri jacket is one to get excited about.
Berghaus Velum Pants review
Chris Kempster tries out Velum Pants from Berghaus…
Emergency shelters
An emergency shelter is exactly that, designed to be used only when dire straits dictate that safety from the elements has to be sought, perhaps when your partner is injured or extremes of weather make movement impossible.
Gully climbing
The ascent of a gully will often be the first introduction to snow climbing for many mountaineers. By their very nature, gullies tend to take lines provided by natural breaks and seams in the cliffs, and these can often be at a reasonably easy angle. As such, many gullies are in the lower grades of climbing difficulty, and provide an excellent way for novices to start to learn about snow-craft, winter ropework and climbing skills…