July 2015 – Mark Horrell

We were determined to climb Corno Grande at our third attempt. The mountain that had given us such trouble in winter became an enjoyable appetiser to a feast of mountain hiking in summer.

If I’d known about the climbing history of 7134m Peak Lenin, then I might have thought twice about going there. But if I’m lucky I will have good weather and reach the summit, and if I don’t I’m sure I will return home with many happy memories.

There aren’t many hill walks close to civilisation in the UK where you can spend two days and only see one other human. The Aran Ridge is just four or five hours’ drive from London, and last week I went there for a couple of days’ backpacking.

When you’ve put so much time, money and physical commitment into a climb, it’s never easy to turn around just fifty metres from the top. Here are some stories from Aconcagua which help to shed light on when that decision should be made.

Month: July 2015

The Corno Grande aperitivo: highest mountain in the Apennines

Sunshine and optimism in the High Pamirs: my attempt on Peak Lenin

Walking the Aran Ridge, another Snowdonia secret

To climb or not to climb? Those last 50 metres