Since publication of the first edition in 1961, Mountaineering: The Freedom of the Hills has endured as the classic mountaineering text. Novice climbers use it as a primer; veterans use it to review their skills. Translated into five languages, it has instructed and inspired more than half a million climbers from all over the world. The fully updated seventh edition maintains the same high standard for complete, authoritative instruction in an easy-to-use format.

From choosing equipment to how to tie a particular knot, from basic rappelling technique to planning an expedition, it's all here in this essential mountaineering reference. Continued evolution of the sport ensures that climbers who own previous editions will need to "upgrade" to the new seventh edition. The chapter on aid climbing, for example, has been substantially rewritten to include new aid techniques and equipment. A new chapter has been added to meet the rising popularity of waterfall ice and mixed climbing.

The more than thirty contributors to Freedom 7 are all active climbers who regularly use and teach the skills about which they write. This book is the resource trusted by climbers the world over.

The Mountaineers Club, based in Seattle, Washington, was founded in 1906. It is now the third largest outdoor recreation club of its kind in the United States, with nearly 15,000 members. The Mountaineers sponsors both classes and year-round outdoor activities, which include hiking, climbing, ski touring, snowshoeing, kayaking, canoeing, and more.

"This work remains a must-have for climbing enthisiasts." Publishers Weekly

"The fully updated seventh edition maintains the same high standard for complete, authoritative instruction in an easy-to-use format. From choosing equipment to instruction on knot tying, to basic rappelling technique and expedition planning, it's all here in this essential mountaineering reference." Health and Fitness Sports Magazine

"In the wild, survive with the seventh edition of Mountaineering: The Freedom of the Hills." Outside

"It's the most comprehensive manual around for mountain travel." Backpacker

"The classic text on mountain climbing....This is the book to read if you plan to venture out to the high places people go because they're there." Los Angeles Daily News

This classic's fully updated seventh edition features 415 completely new illustrations and a new glossary of terms. A new chapter has been added to meet the rising popularity of waterfall ice and mixed climbing.

The Mountaineers Club, based in Seattle, Washington, was founded in 1906. It is now the third largest outdoor recreation club of its kind in the United States, with nearly 15,000 members. The Mountaineers sponsors both classes and year-round outdoor activities, which include hiking, climbing, ski touring, snowshoeing, kayaking, canoeing, and more.

First steps — Clothing and equipment — Camping and food — Physical conditioning — Navigation — Wilderness travel — Leave no trace — Stewardship and access — Basic safety system — Belaying — Rappelling — Alpine rock-climbing technique — Rock protection — Leading on rock — Aid climbing — Snow travel and climbing — Glacier travel and crevasse rescue — Alpine ice climbing — Waterfall ice and mixed climbing — Expedition climbing — Leadership — Safety — First aid — Alpine rescue — Mountain geology — The cycle of snow — Mountain weather.