The Alpine 4000m Peaks by the Classic Routes

The Alpine 4000m Peaks by the Classic Routes by Goedeke, Richard. paperback edition. ISBN: 9780897321112.

The Alpine 4000-metre peaks, though lower than the mountains of the Himalaya or the Andes, tower higher above the snow line than many of the peaks in those ranges. It is this characteristic that has made the Alps one of the finest climbing regions in the world. To ascend its mountains by even their easiest routes involves expeditions of considerable challenge. Yet few of these routes require any great technical skill other than basic glacier, and snow and ice technique, a little rock climbing ability, and good mountain judgement. They range from the Bishorn which is little more than a straightforward snow plod up an easy glacier, to the dangerous and inaccessible Aiguille Blanche de Peuterey, splendidly situated amidst the savage grandeur of the steep, chaotic southern flank of Mont Blanc. The guide gives a full description of each climb with advice on maps and huts. A simple layout map is provided for each ascent together with useful photographs. Sixty-one mountains are described and completing all of these would represent an odyssey of climbing and adventure that will surely inspire novice and expert alike. (4 1/2 x 7 1/2, 240 pages, color photos, b&w photos)