Mountaineering
Mountain Survival Reference

Mountain Living

Units deploying to high elevations must receive advanced training to survive in the harsh mountain environment. Normal activities (navigation, communications, and movement) require specialized techniques. Training should be conducted as realistically as possible, preferably under severe conditions so the soldier gains confidence. Extended training exercises test support facilities and expose the soldier to the isolation common to mountain operations. Training should reflect the harsh mountain environment and should consider the following:

  • Temperature and altitude extremes
  • Hygiene and sanitation
  • Limited living space (difficulty of bivouac)
  • Clothing requirements
  • Survival
  • Acclimatization and Conditioning
  • Medical Considerations

  • Buy The Book This Site Is Based On
    This US Army Field Manual is the source material for this website. This is the finest book written on "real world" mountaineering (not just for sport). In current use with Navy Seals, Army Rangers and Special Forces, Marines, and sport climbers. Covers basic techniques, movement of individuals and units, and evacuation. Operations on glaciers and snow covered mountains, fixed alpine paths, also master training program. Climbers who do not read this book are already on the edge of falling.