The mountains people climb for fitness are generally not very high, yet accidents often occur. For example, Hebei’s Xiao Wutai Mountain, with an altitude of just over 2,000 meters, is not considered particularly high, but every year there are incidents of frostbite and hypothermia. Beijing’s Jiankou section of the Great Wall sees many inexperienced enthusiasts suffering from lightning strikes and falls... Some incorrect perceptions about mountain climbing may be the reason behind the frequent outdoor accidents.
1. “Low-altitude mountains are risk-free”
Many people assume that lower-altitude mountains pose little to no danger, often venturing into the wilderness without adequate preparation. When sudden weather changes or other dangers arise, they find themselves helpless and in life-threatening situations. Take the well-known Siguniang Mountain’s Da Feng peak in Sichuan, for example. A quick online search will reveal terms like “entry-level snow mountain” or “beginner snow mountain.” Seeing such descriptions, many people casually wear shirts and sneakers, join random groups, and head up the mountain—only to suffer from acute mountain sickness or sustain serious injuries from falls. The recurrence of such incidents on the same mountain shows that many climbers do not take mountain safety seriously and harbor a subconscious sense of luck. While it is technically possible to reach altitudes of over 5,000 meters wearing just a shirt and sneakers, sudden weather changes can lead to disastrous outcomes. When thick fog, rain, or snow sets in, the risks of slipping and hypothermia increase dramatically, making serious accidents more likely. We should maintain eternal reverence for any mountain or nature. Every mountain has its own characteristics and rules, and violating them will inevitably lead to suffering. Before the mountain, before nature, we must hold an attitude of respect and responsibility, discard the notion that “low-altitude mountains are risk-free,” and certainly not spread such ideas to others. Only with full preparation can we enjoy the experience safely.
2. “A one-day trip doesn’t matter”
Many people prefer convenience and cut corners during mountain climbing activities—skipping energy snacks, water, proper climbing clothes, and even headlamps. They think, “It’s just one day, I’ll manage,” gritting their teeth and pushing through. It’s also common to see people carrying plastic bags and wearing uniforms to climb, behaviors that are neither safe nor environmentally friendly. Once this indifferent mindset takes root, it encourages complacency. Over time, it gradually drifts away from the true purpose and essence of mountain climbing. Climbing is meant to be an enjoyable outdoor experience that brings physical and mental pleasure, but the “it doesn’t matter” attitude can turn it into a miserable and even dangerous ordeal. In reality, mountain climbing is a systematic endeavor—demonstrating precision in planning, preparation, equipment, food, ascending, and descending. Climbers should treat it with seriousness. Holding a “one-day trip doesn’t matter” mindset is very dangerous. One must overcome the innate human tendency toward laziness, because in the face of challenges and difficulties, laziness can expose climbers to danger.
3. “Climb with whoever, whenever”
Many climbers join groups formed online or through impromptu meetups. Some teams even exceed a hundred people, yet few know each other, let alone expect the leader to take any real responsibility—this has been a leading cause of mountain accident tragedies in recent years. Casual grouping carries many risks: firstly, lack of familiarity and understanding among members, differing habits and personalities, can easily lead to conflict; secondly, when danger arises, people may deflect blame or simply turn a blind eye. Mountain climbing is inherently a team activity, built on trust and cooperation at all times. Therefore, it is highly recommended to carefully choose your companions—climb with familiar friends or trusted leaders. And of course, never go solo. Being alone in the wilderness means having no backup whatsoever if anything goes wrong, which makes it far more dangerous.
3. “Climb with whoever, whenever”
Many climbers join groups formed online or through impromptu meetups. Some teams even exceed a hundred people, yet few know each other, let alone expect the leader to take any real responsibility—this has been a leading cause of mountain accident tragedies in recent years. Casual grouping carries many risks: firstly, lack of familiarity and understanding among members, differing habits and personalities, can easily lead to conflict; secondly, when danger arises, people may deflect blame or simply turn a blind eye. Mountain climbing is inherently a team activity, built on trust and cooperation at all times. Therefore, it is highly recommended to carefully choose your companions—climb with familiar friends or trusted leaders. And of course, never go solo. Being alone in the wilderness means having no backup whatsoever if anything goes wrong, which makes it far more dangerous.
4. “Skill comes naturally over time”
A large number of mountain accident cases show that many safety incidents stem from climbers lacking proper knowledge and proficient skills. To climb safely and exercise in a scientific way, one must study or attend formal training to master basic mountaineering skills and safety knowledge. In reality, some “outdoor enthusiasts” do gain experience gradually through trial and error without encountering risks—but this is purely a matter of luck. Experience does indeed accumulate through setbacks, but relying on accidents and mishaps to learn in mountaineering is simply not worth the cost. Don’t fall into the trap of thinking, “I’ll figure it out as I go”—you never know which mistake could be your last. Before climbing, when facing unfamiliar techniques, gear, locations, or routes, seek advice and learn from others until you’ve truly mastered the correct methods before putting them into practice on the mountain.
When you haven’t properly mastered mountaineering knowledge yourself, never casually share it with others, as it may lead to serious consequences.