How we acclimatize, when we descend, and why summit-or-bust is the wrong mindset.
Acute Mountain Sickness doesn't care how fit you are. It comes for everyone above 8,000ft if you push too hard, too fast.
Climb high, sleep low
Every itinerary above 12,000ft has at least one acclimatization day — a day hike to higher altitude, then sleep at the previous camp.
Hydrate aggressively
4–5 litres a day. Dry mountain air pulls moisture out of you faster than you realise.
Listen to the headache
A mild headache is normal. A throbbing headache with nausea is your body shouting. We descend immediately, no debate.
Summit is a bonus
We have a 92% summit rate because we don't push when conditions or bodies say no. The mountain will be there next season.
