Next Level: Scrambling Steep Peaks

Mantel

When the next good ledge is too high to step up onto, use this basic rock-climbing technique: Grab the hold and walk your feet up the wall until the hold is chest-high. Turn slightly to one side and press the corresponding palm flat onto the hold, elbow pointing up. Push yourself up until you can lift the opposite foot onto the ledge; then look for a higher hold for your other hand. This move is potentially hard to reverse.

Edge and Smear

Don't climb like Stallone in Cliffhanger--all arms. Let your feet do most of the work. On tiny ledges, press your big toe down and into the wall; just getting the front edge of your shoe on the hold provides enough purchase to push off. On a smooth face, mash the sole of your shoe-as much of it as possible to maximize friction--against the rock and keep pressure against it as you lever up.

Downclimb

Face the rock and look down at holds while moving your feet onto them. Remember: When ascending, reaching the next handhold sometimes requires first moving a foot higher; similarly, when downclimbing you may need to first move your hands down to good holds before stepping lower.

Tips

>>Think your moves through before you make them; if you're not sure you can downclimb a section, reverse a move before continuing.

>>Always wear a certified helmet (which bears a UIAA or CE seal).

>>Test holds with a firm thump (a hollow sound indicates a loose hold) before committing your full weight.

>>If the terrain above harbors teetering rocks or evidence of recent and/or frequent rockfall, move through quickly or find an alternate route.