New Canaan 53

A PEAK EXPERIENCE: MOUNTAINEERING IN THE SWISS ALPS BY AVERILL MEADOW

T here is something immediately tan- gible once you rise above the hustle and bustle of society and into the mountains around Zermatt. You can taste what many call the “Freedom of the Hills.” With the crisp alpine air filling your lungs and the vast abundance of mountains laid out before you, it is difficult not to feel the might of nature looming down, the insig- nificance and frailty of your body against such overwhelming power. And yet, after spending a mere few days in this marvelous setting, an individual or group with the simple desire to escape the common stresses, problems, and dis-

tractions that face many of us today will return feeling rejuvenated and more appreciative of the lives we live, as well as filled with adrena- line-pumped memories that will last a lifetime. High above the tallest rooftops in Zermatt, (and Europe!), exist an extensive network of mountain huts that offer comfortable lodging, breath-taking views, and hearty yet delectable meals. The Mar- garita Hut, for example, is the highest inhabitable building in all of Europe, situated 14,941 feet above sea level. It is almost unimaginable that this hut, hanging from the side of a cliff, exists near the far-reaching limits of human endurance, and yet it does. Every year, thousands of daring adventur-

ers make the climb. Speaking as someone who has done it, it is well worth it. While the idea of heading off into the mountains might seem daunting, outfitted with the proper gear (Black Diamond Equip- ment has almost everything you need–see be- low for recommendations) and with a solid guide (there are copious amounts of extremely qualified guide companies in Zermatt), some- one with a bit of mountaineering experience can safely traverse from wondrous hut to hut, purify his mind with the fresh air and gasp- inducing views, and even stand on some of the tallest peaks in the world.

GEAR TO GO RAVEN ICE AXE:

TEAM OF CLIMBERS REACH THE SUMMIT OF THE BREITHORN,

4165 METRES. THE MAJESTIC MATTERHORN IS CLEARLY

VISIBLE IN THE BACKGROUND

As a general mountaineering Ice Axe, the Black Diamond Raven Ice Axe is hard to beat. It has a sleek design and is lightweight, which makes it perfect for alpine adventures and glacier travel. While not the best for more technical climbing, if traditional mountaineering is what you are looking for, then the Raven will not let you down. $79.95 ALPINE BOD HARNESS: The Alpine Bod Harness by Black Diamond is perfect for roping up for glacial travel and mountaineering. The harness is very snug and secure, and is especially easy to take on and off even while wearing crampons and boots. Not suitable for all climbing situations (rock climbing or mixed climbing). For general mountaineering it definitely gets the job done. $39.95 SABRETOOTH CRAMPONS: Sharp and effective, the Black Diamond Sabretooth Crampons are perfect to take into the icy mountains. Coming in three styles–the Pro, Clip, and Strap version–they can be fit to any mountaineering boot to provide solid traction in snowy conditions. These award- winning crampons are just as well suited to technical ice climbing as general alpine mountaineering. A definite must-have for heading into the mountains. $179.95 HALF DOME HELMET: The Half Dome Helmet is an inexpensive necessity for any aspiring mountaineer. It provides safety without sacrificing comfort. The click-wheel on the back allows for easy adjustment, and the 310- 340 grams (depending on size) are a worthwhile tradeoff for the protection the helmet delivers. $59.95 All available online at www.blackdiamondequipment.com and in most outdoor retailers.

QUINTINO SELLA HUT, 3585 METRES ABOVE SEA LEVEL.

152 WESTONMAGAZINEGROUP.COM

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