Images of world mountaineering Above, left; A distant glance at the American Mountaineering Museum’s exhibits from the entrance. PHOTOS BY OMAYRA ACEVEDO[/caption]

I don’t need a dangerous pastime to feel the rush of endorphins running through my body. Yet, I can wrap my head around why some people may find activities like bungee jumping and rock climbing enticing.

Several months ago, I walked into the American Mountaineering Museum in Golden. At first, I didn’t think much of it. Then, all it took was reading the first two informational signs to spark my interest.

There are more than 5,000 pieces of gear, slides, prints, and mountaineering artifacts, from across the globe live in the 3,500 feet of space in the museum. Climate, science, cultures, and humanities exhibits depict their relationship to the world of mountains and mountaineering.

I faced one display, looking up at the wall. Having a vivid imagination, I pictured myself covered in mountaineering gear, including a waist pack filled with carabiners, pulleys, and even my Go-Pro camera strapped around my head. Doubt set in as I questioned if I could ever take on such a task.

My mind wandered to 1963 when Jim Whittaker became the first American to climb Mount Everest, ten years after the first climbers, Edmund Hillary and Sherpa Tenzing Norgay, summited the famous mountain.

Mountaineering, like many outdoor activities, takes a set of prerequisites before one can gain the skills and confidence to partake in any form of rock climbing. Perhaps, this is what makes me doubt my ability.

Between imposing displays, strategically placed lighting, and the collection of artifacts, I couldn’t help but feel like a mountaineer. It’s a very intriguing place to visit. The museum also offers rotating mountain-inspired photography and artwork.

No, I don’t think I’ll ever climb Mount Everest. A beautiful hiking experience and the sight of wildlife roaming free is good enough for me. However, considering I’ve started many things as an adult, including learning to ski, who’s to say I can’t do the same with rock climbing?! I guess we’ll see what happens this summer.

To learn more about Colorado’s mountaineering past, check out this week’s Women’s History Month story on Mary. A. Cronin in The Mountain-Ear. The American Mountaineering Museum is located at 710 10th Street, Golden, CO 80401. They can be reached by email at info@mountaineeringmuseum.org. To learn more, visit https://www.mountaineeringmuseum.org/.

Did you know that located 2.5 miles from Nederland, down Boulder Canyon, is The Sport Park? It’s an area with various cliffs offering sport climbing and top-rope climbing. Though it’s better suited for climbers with experience, it’s also a great spot for nature photography.