Why should you climb in the alpine?

Why should you alpine climb? What is so good about it?

I mean lets be honest, I love cragging. Who couldn't? If that old adage of "you are what you eat" is true, you probably are also what you think and do. Under that definition, I am more of a sport climber than an alpine climber. Despite that, I do try to climb in the alpine. It offers many things playing around in our local canyons simply can't.

Here are reasons to alpine climb:

It may require some hard work and early mornings...

...but you do get to spend time in some beautiful places.
Whether that is the approach...
photo by Matt Berry

...or the actual climbing.
Photo by Matt Berry

Oh, did I mention the summits? A photo from perhaps
 one of the funnest and classiest summits; the Middle Teton.
Photo by Dallin Slater

You also get to see some darn cute animals!
These guys call Mt Stuart their home.

Not to mention that the actual climbing
can be outstanding.
Myself on an ephemeral line high on Timpanogas.
Photo by Joey Langford

And finally, a photo that sums up two important things. Great
temperatures for summer rock climbing, and fun!
Photo: Justin Hansen

It appears that there are more climbers than ever before. This is really noticeable when you look at the easily accessible crags. Starting this summer, trying walking a little farther!