A step-by-step path from a first short hike to the top of Everest.
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Health and safety

Health and safety guides

So these guides cover the problems that stop hikers and climbers most often: altitude sickness, sore knees on the way down, and heel blisters. Each one says what medical sources recommend and when to see a doctor. Keep in mind these health guides give general information, not medical advice, so if you have a health condition or symptoms that worry you, see a doctor.

Altitude sickness: how to avoid it, the warning signs, and when to go down

A plain guide for Kilimanjaro, Everest Base Camp and any trek that sleeps above 2,500 m (8,200 ft).

Why your knees hurt going downhill, and how to fix it

A plain guide for hikers whose knees ache on the way down, with what medical sources say and when to see a doctor.

How to stop getting blisters on your heels when hiking

Why heel blisters form, what actually helps, what to do on the trail, and when a blister needs a doctor.