Alpinism is the art of climbing up summits and walls in high
mountains, in all seasons, in rocky or icy terrain. It involves
physical, technical and intellectual abilities, using
appropriate techniques, equipment and highly specific tools such as axes
and crampons.
Alpinism is a traditional, physical practice characterized by a shared
culture made up of knowledge of the
high-mountain environment, the history of the practice and
associated values, and specific skills. Knowledge about the natural
environment, changing weather conditions, and natural hazards is also
essential.