DENALI

ALASKA / 6190m

Often billed as the ‘coldest mountain on Earth’ due to its combination of sub-arctic positioning and extreme altitude, Denali – known for much of the 20th century as Mt McKinley – is one of the Seven Summits, but is redoubtable in its own right. Its location in the thick of grizzly bear-infested Alaska – where

you’re more likely to get a float-plane flown by a shotgun-packing local than a cab – gives it an appealing woody appeal. Once on the strikingly beautiful (and absolutely enormous) mountain you’re in terrain of a Himalayan nature. However, Denali is a colossal free-standing mountain stood in a volatile position and creates its own weather, with storms

racing in suddenly and persisting sometimes for weeks. The plus side is, this is America – so infrastructure and communications are excellent, red tape is minimal and easy, and you’re never too far from a decent walking supplies shop and a steak dinner. But you’ll be going with a guide, so all you need to do is enjoy it, and find the money to make it happen.