High Camp
Overview
A high camp is an elevated campsite established above the surrounding terrain, often used prior to crossing an alpine pass or undertaking a demanding section. It provides strategic positioning for early starts.
Key points
- Located above tree line or in alpine zones.
- Used to stage early-morning departures for difficult terrain.
- Requires awareness of weather, exposure, and safety.
- May offer limited natural shelter or water sources.
- Chosen for strategic rather than comfort reasons.
Details
High camps are typically selected for logistical advantages, such as reducing distance to a pass, summit, or navigational challenge. Because they are often situated in exposed environments, they may require sturdy shelter systems and careful site selection.
Weather volatility above tree line necessitates attention to wind, precipitation, and potential lightning hazards. Water availability can be sparse, so hikers frequently carry water from lower elevations or rely on seasonal melt.
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Illustrative hiking footage
The following external videos offer general visual context for typical hiking environments. They are not official route recommendations, safety instructions, or planning tools.