False Summit

A false summit is a peak or high point on a mountain that appears to be the true summit when viewed from below, but is actually followed by higher terrain that becomes visible only upon reaching it. This common hiking phenomenon can be mentally challenging for backpackers and mountaineers, as it often means additional climbing beyond what was initially expected. False summits are particularly common on long ridgelines and can occur multiple times on a single ascent, requiring hikers to maintain motivation and energy reserves for the continued climb to the actual summit.