Mountains for the Novice Climber

Mount Elbrus, Russia:

A beginner can easily climb the highest mountain in Europe in a day or two. Your adventure begins at 12,500 feet, with 6,000 more to go until you hit the summit. While the climb might not be difficult, the sheer altitude means your body needs several days to adjust to the atmosphere. The entire trip will take two weeks, covering your drive from Moscow, training sessions and acclimatization.

Mount Blanc, France:

The Gouter Route offers an easy way up Mt. Blanc. Best attempted during the summer with a guide, you will need about four days to acclimatize. Be warned that the ease of the climb means it is popular with tourists, so it is recommended you get an early start.

Uhuru Peak on Mount Kilimanjaro © Peter Zaharov | Dreamstime

Mount Baker, Wash.:

This peak is a much more quiet experience than the popular Mt. Rainier. The 10,781-foot volcanic summit is a manageable one-day climb for beginners. No prior experience is required, but the guide services will give you two days of training before starting.

Mount Ararat, Turkey:

Some believe the remains of Noah’s Ark are hidden somewhere along the side of the dormant volcano. The 16,954-foot peak is a straightforward ascension up the south face, but it will require some basic climbing techniques. Almost forming a perfect quadripoint, at the top you will be able to see Turkey, Armenia, Azerbaijan and Iran.

Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania:

Don’t let the 19,336-foot elevation frighten you; Kilimanjaro offers an epic trek that will take you from grasslands to rainforest to arctic desert. This mountain isn’t so much a climb as a very long hike. Expect your trip to last around a week, as your body will need to get acclimatized. The oxygen level at the peak is about half what it is at sea level.