>>1041234>My first destination is Whistlers Mountain in Jasper, CanadaSeems fine to start. If you run into any trouble, you can always take the tram back down to the bottom, I guess.
>Are there any things that a first timer should know? I've got good physical stamina and I hike regularly, but I've never tacked something with so much verticality.It's a good idea to bring someone with you who has climbed mountains before. Even if you are just hiking up a trail, and there is nothing technical (i.e., using your hands or ropes), pacing yourself so you don't get tired early into the hike is BIG. Many mountaineering newbies who think they are in good physical health end up tiring themselves out early into the hike and have to turn around because they just didn't pace themselves very well. An experienced hiking partner (preferably about your same physical fitness) can help you figure out a good pace on your first time out. Hydration is also just as important. You should be drinking enough that you don't feel thirsty (it can be difficult, even for people with experience).
>As well, I've got a friend who wants to come with me, but hes in poor physical health and I'm not sure if he could do it. Would it be a bad decision to bring him with me?Bad idea, yes. I've tried bringing several "indoor types" on hikes, and they always have issues. It's much more hassle than it's worth.
>Is scaling a mountain alone a bad idea?No, just be aware of your health.
>How many mountaineers are on this board?I guess I am, although only by virtue of most of the hiking where I live being on mountains. I've climbed a few taller peaks with technical sections, but with guides. There's really two types of "mountaineer" in my mind. I will not go by myself up sheer faces or over glaciers; I only go where rocky trails and small snowfields can get me (believe it or not, but pic related only had one snowfield crossing), and if that's to the top of a 14,000' peak, then that's where I'll go.
