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May 30, 2019 · Newspapers began talking about ‘summit fever’ – an all-consuming desire to reach the top, despite clear signs of the risks outweighing the chances of success.
In mountaineering terms, Summit Fever is the drive or compulsion of a climber to reach the summit of the mountain no matter the cost. They have invested time, energy, and resources into their goal and are so close to the end that they allow their judgment to be impaired in their effort to “get it done.”
Summit fever is a strange phenomenon, a strong feeling or compulsion that comes over those scaling a difficult or high summit. It makes them act irrationally and make unwise decisions. Sometimes summit fever can result in a loss of lives.
As we enter nearly a full year of battling the COVID-19 pandemic, we must be aware of this phenomenon, known as “summit fever.” When the end seems within reach and has been eagerly anticipated, when so much has been sacrificed and lost, exhaustion and anticipation can replace caution—and lead to decisions that have dire consequences.
Summit Fever definition: The compulsion to reach the summit of a mountain at all costs.
Feb 2, 2022 · The overwhelming compulsion to reach the summit of a mountain, no matter the concern for the safety of yourself or others, is a phenomenon called “summit fever.” In most low stake hiking trips, it doesn’t have any side effects beyond some sore feet, but, on serious mountains, summit fever can be fatal.
Jul 2, 2021 · Summit Fever: “The state of mind in which a person fails to notice severe changes in weather conditions, route conditions, physical exertion and refuses to take them into consideration in their desperate quest to reach the summit.”
