Impact of extreme weather conditions on high-altitude climbers' goals and quality of experience

Goal setting and quality of experience play a key role in sustaining motivation during climbing expeditions. This study investigated these dimensions during a Himalayan expedition affected by prolonged weather emergency preventing climbers from reaching the peak. For one month, six climbers were monitored through experience sampling method (ESM), providing real-time information on their activities, goals and associated experience. Results showed that both quality of experience and goals varied significantly according to weather conditions. Goals were broadly focused on mountaineering, allowing climbers to retrieve opportunities for action even after failure to reach the peak. Optimal experience or flow was prominently reported before and after weather emergency, whereas apathy prevailed during it. Implications for promoting enjoyment and safety in recreational climbing are discussed.