- GALDHØPIGGEN, NORWAY
Galdhøpiggen is the tallest mountain in
Norway, with a summit at 2469m above sea
level. In July, the mountain is still covered
in lashings of ice and snow – so crampons,
ice axes and poles are recommended.
Routes of varying difficulty all start from
Spiterstulen, and those inexperienced with
glacial climbing should hire a guide (a guide
being strongly recommended if you’re
planning to cross the Styggebreenglacier).
Near the summit, you’ll find a cabin that
awaits you with hot drinks and T-shirts for sale
(yes, really).
- CERRO EL PLOMO, CHILE
The foothills of this mountain are a hotspot
for skiing between June and October.
The snow-covered valley is perfect for
all levels of skiing and there’s a tonne of
organised winter sports going on, including
snowboarding and tobogganing.
- HINTERTUX, AUSTRIA
The name ‘Hintertux’ refers to the glaciers
of the Gefrorene-Wand-Kees and the nearby
Riepenkees. These glaciers can be accessed
by gondola and chairlifts, and feature one
of only two ski resorts in the world open
365 days a year (the other is Zermatt in
Switzerland). This location is only one hour
away from the bustling city of Innsbruck.
- AORAKI / MOUNT COOK,
NEW ZEALAND
The highest mountain in New Zealand,
Mount Cook actually lost 40 or so metres
after a rockslide in 1991. You’ll find it in the
Southern Alps, which run the length of the
South Island. Mount Cook Village sits at
the foot of this mountain and is a popular
SUMMER
SNOW & ICE10
These mountains offer snow in
the summer months. From casual
skiing to treks lasting weeks, you
won’t have to wait until the end
of the year to get your snow fix
If you prefer to strap on your snowshoes in the glorious sunshine, crack out your
crampons alongside your sun cream and like your summer holiday to be on the chilly
side, these peaks have got you covered. Remember to check weather and snow
conditions in advance.
starting point for climbers, as well as
providing an opportunity to soak up some
local alpine culture.- MOUNT GASSAN, JAPAN
Its name means the ‘moon mountain’, and
you can expect the ski season on Mount
Gassan to last until July – one of the latest
in Japan. It is the highest of the Three
Mountains of Dewa located in the Yamagata
Prefecture. Bring your own gear as you’ll be
hard-pressed to find rental skis. Climbers
who make the ascent can enjoy the peaceful
Gassan shrine at the summit.- NADELHORN, SWITZERLAND
Situated in the Swiss Pennine Alps, snow
often remains on the iconic three ridges
that form the ‘needle’ throughout the
summer – although check conditions
beforehand as this area is feeling the
impact from increasingly hot summers
[Ed: see Alex Roddie's feature later in the
magazine for more on this]. The Mischabel
Hut sits at 3340m near the Hohbalmgletscher
and is often used as a starting point for
reaching the summit of Nadelhorn.
Reaching the summit is a task suited for
experienced climbers.- HVANNADALSHNÚKUR,
ICELAND
This peak on the north-western rim of the
summit crater of the Öræfajökull volcano
in Iceland is the highest in the country.
Known to be covered in ice year-round,
you can access the Hryggjaleið route from
the Virkisjökull glacier until mid-July. The
southern Sandfellsleið route is open for the
majority of the year, but it’s best to check in
advance if you can get access. Guided climbs
are recommended either way unless you’re
an experienced glacier climber.- MOUNT HOOD, OREGON
This behemoth boasts six skiing areas and
is home to a host of holiday resorts and
winter sports establishments. Peak climbing
season is considered to be late April-June.
It’s generally agreed that there are no easy
routes to the summit – technical climbers
only, folks! A favoured starting point is the
Timberline Lodge, which doubles as a ski
resort for those not up for the climb. Photos: ShutterstockALMANAC
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18 The Great OutdoorsAugust 2019