The Alps challenge climbers with 82 towering peaks
The Alps, Europe's iconic mountain range, feature 82 peaks over 4,000 meters, challenging climbers and inspiring mountaineering, though climate change now threatens their glaciers.
Europe's majestic Alps boast 82 officially recognized 'Four-thousanders' – peaks soaring over 4,000 meters. These include Mont Blanc, the highest at 4,808 meters, first summited in 1786. This range, stretching across eight countries, became the birthplace of modern mountaineering, inspiring innovations and attracting over 120 million visitors annually. Climbers face steep ice, unpredictable weather, and thin air, pushing physical limits while enjoying breathtaking vistas. However, climate change is rapidly melting glaciers, altering routes and highlighting the urgent need for conservation in these iconic mountains.