[2] Subtitled as a compilation of "The World's Most Significant Climbs," the magazine contains feature stories about notable new routes and ascents, written by the climbers, as well as a large "Climbs and Expeditions" section containing short notes by climbers about new and noteworthy achievements.

Each issue includes book reviews, memorials of deceased members, and club activities.

From 1960 to 1995, the editor was H. Adams Carter, who brought the journal to international pre-eminence.

All of these magazines are often used by climbers planning expeditions, especially those who wish to verify that a proposed route would be a new one.

[citation needed] In March 2007, the American Alpine Journal inaugurated free, full, searchable online access for its issues dating back to 1966.