A col is a low point or pass between two mountain peaks, creating a natural pathway through a mountain range. Picture two tall mountains standing side by side: the dip or saddle between them is the col.

For centuries, travelers crossing mountains have sought out cols because they offer the easiest route over rugged terrain. Instead of climbing straight over a peak, you can follow trails through a col and save yourself thousands of feet of exhausting climbing. The famous St. Bernard Pass in the Alps, where monks once kept rescue dogs to help lost travelers, is a col that people have used since ancient Roman times.

Mountaineers use the word frequently when planning routes. They might say, “we'll camp at the col before attempting the summit tomorrow” or “the safest descent is through the col on the north side.” The word comes from the French word for “neck,” which makes sense when you imagine how a col pinches in between two higher points, like a neck between shoulders.

Weather at a col can be fierce since wind often funnels through these gaps with tremendous force. But despite the challenges, cols remain crucial landmarks for anyone navigating mountainous country, whether they're hiking, climbing, or simply trying to get from one valley to another.