Because of this, aspiring mountain climbers must become downright studious when learning the tricks of the trade. Mountaineering: The Freedom of the Hills is arguably the best and most respected textbook on the subject. Since its first printing in 1961, more than 500,000 copies of the book have been sold, and it's been translated into 13 languages.
Anyone who spends time in the mountains will benefit from this book - not only serious mountaineers. In 528 pages the book goes through a whirlwind of information, covering everything from wilderness camping and navigation to climbing techniques, rope management, and glacier travel. There are even sections on mountain geology, weather and wilderness ethics.
