Most beginner mountaineers skip these 5 critical things - and it shows at 10,000ft. Here's what experienced climbers do differently that Instagram mountaineering won't show you: 1. PREP HIKES - Test your physical shape, cardio, strength, and gear comfort before the real climb. Get used to alpine hiking with serious elevation gain. 2. LEARN ROPE TECHNIQUES - Master different knots and roping up methods. These techniques are learnable for most people who are relatively fit and willing to train. 3. UNDERSTAND TIMING - Alpine starts aren't random. Melting snow from the sun creates slippery conditions, increases avalanche danger, and opens up crevasses. Check weather first, always. 4. RESEARCH YOUR MOUNTAIN - Limited summit slots exist for most mountains. Research guiding services available and book ahead. 5. MASTER TENT SETUP - Rocky alpine terrain means you can't just stake your tent. Learn to anchor with rocks and rope techniques so your tent doesn't fly away. Pro tip: Don't blow your...