Your trusted guide to the mountains from experienced alpinists

Helpful guides and insightful stories from climbing experts, ski instructors, and more.

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The AlpInsider team

Michael Graw
I live in Bellingham, Washington, at the base of the wild North Cascades. Over the last ten years, I've explored much of the region's steep terrain and endless layers of ridges and peaks, both on foot and on skis, often linking far-flung ridges together to push deeper into the range.
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Timo Holmquist
I’m happiest on long backpacking trips into little-known pockets of wilderness, skiing down backcountry mountains, and on all-fours, scrambling the rocky spines of alpine ridges. When I'm not adventuring in the outdoors, I'm most likely writing about them.
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Sylvia Karcz
Sylvia fell in love with snowboarding in her teens. She has since spent every season on the slopes and now works as a snowboard instructor.
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Poorva Shepal
Over the last decade and a half, I’ve been busy learning and honing the skills I need to survive in the mountains. I completed a mountaineering course from one of India’s best institutes and got certified as a WFR.
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Mountaineering guides

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A tent with a mountain view
Guides

3 Season Vs. 4 Season Tents (Pros & Cons)

Three-season or four-season tents? In this guide, I’ll lay out what they are and which one you need to have the best time on your next outdoor adventure.
Tent in the middle of a field
Guides

11 Hacks For Keeping Cool In A Tent

Keeping cool in a tent on a hot summer night is easier than it sounds. Follow these 11 hacks to keep the heat down on your next camping trip.
Mountains
Guides

Mountaineering Vs. Hiking: Which Is Better For Me?

Mountaineering and hiking are two separate but similar activities. Here, we compare them, so you can figure out which is better for you.
Mountaineers climbing a snowy mountain
Guides

Mountain Climbing Clothing For Winter Summits

You need the right clothes for the weather to succeed at winter mountaineering objectives. We explain what to wear when climbing in the winter.

Skiing guides

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Skis and ski boots
Guides

How To Choose The Right Ski Length

Finding out how to choose the right ski length doesn’t have to be a chore. In this article, I’ll walk you through the ins and outs so you can find the perfect size quickly.
Two people cross-country skiing
Guides

What To Wear For Cross-Country Skiing

What to wear cross-country skiing isn’t always as straightforward as it appears. Dive into my guide to get the best recommendations and advice.
Person skiing
Guides

The 6 Different Types Of Skiing: Which Is Right for You?

We explain the 6 different types of skiing: downhill, backcountry, cross-country, freestyle, ski mountaineering, and adaptive skiing.
People skiing
Guides

Intermediate Ski Tips: 13 Common Mistakes & How To Fix Them

Everyone makes mistakes, but how you correct them matters. Use these intermediate ski tips to fast-track your skiing development.

Snowboarding guides

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Person snowboarding
Guides

What Size Snowboard Boots Do I Need (Size Chart Inside!)

Wondering what size snowboard boots you need? Look no further! We break down snowboard boot sizing and include a size chart to help you get the best fit.
Person holding a snowboard
Guides

Skiing vs Snowboarding: Which One Is Better For Me?

Considering skiing or snowboarding? We answer beginners’ top questions and compare skiing vs snowboarding so you know which is the better fit for you.
Person snowboarding
Guides

Is Snowboarding Hard? 10 Things Beginners Need To Know

Thinking about learning how to snowboard? It’s not as hard as people think! Here are ten things beginners need to know before hitting the slopes.

Hiking guides

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Person trail running
Guides

Hiking Boots vs Trail Runners: Is Lighter Footwear Better?

Torn between hiking boots vs trail runners? Let’s review the pros and cons of each so you know which to choose before embarking on your next hiking trip.
Group of people hiking
Guides

5 Best Hiking Documentaries To Inspire Your Next Adventure!

Perfect for getting into the outdoor mindset, hiking documentaries are a lot of fun to watch. Here are the five best you can watch for free on YouTube today!
Person hiking in the rain
Guides

Essential Rain Hiking Gear: How To Stay Dry On The Trail

Stay comfortable and dry while hiking in the rain. Discover the best rain hiking gear and the most important tips for staying dry during wet outdoor adventures.
Mountains
Guides

Mountaineering Vs. Hiking: Which Is Better For Me?

Mountaineering and hiking are two separate but similar activities. Here, we compare them, so you can figure out which is better for you.

Climbing guides

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Person rock climbing
Guides

The 11 Types Of Climbing Holds: How To Use & Master Them

Want to turbocharge your climbing abilities? We explain the 11 different types of climbing holds and how you can use them to send your next climb.
Person rock climbing
Guides

The 13 Different Types of Climbing

Climbing is a broad sport with disciplines like single-pitch rock climbing, bouldering, and mountaineering. We break down the different types of climbing.
A man rock climbing
Guides

Bouldering vs Rock Climbing: Key Similarities & Differences

Bouldering and rock climbing are very different styles of climbing with different goals. Discover the main differences between bouldering vs rock climbing.
Mountaineers climbing a snowy mountain
Guides

Mountain Climbing Clothing For Winter Summits

You need the right clothes for the weather to succeed at winter mountaineering objectives. We explain what to wear when climbing in the winter.

Recommended gear

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Woman holding skis
Gear

6 Best Hardpack Skis For The East Coast

Buckle up, buttercup; the east coast is here to challenge your skiing chops. Armor up with our reviews for the best skis for ice coast extremes.
Tent
Gear

8 Best Cabin Tents For Your Next Outdoor Adventure

Discover the 8 best cabin tents designed for ultimate comfort and convenience on your next outdoor adventure. Find the perfect tent with our expert reviews.
Gear

Best Women’s Water Shoes For Hiking Wet Trails

Planning a hike with ample water crossings or soggy sections of trail? Water shoes can save your feet! Find the best women’s water shoes for hiking here.
Sleeping bag on a tent
Gear

7 Best Sleeping Bags & Quilts For Hot Weather (2023)

Light and breathable summer sleeping bags and quilts are perfect for hot weather camping. In this guide, I review some of the best options available today.

About AlpInsider

Founded by a collective of dedicated mountaineers, skiers, and climbers with decades of experience, Alpinsider’s mission is to deliver trusted advice to fellow budding mountaingoers.

Part of the thrill of spending time in the mountains comes from sharing that experience with others. AlpInsider is our way of giving back to the mountain sports community.