What drives some people to brave harsh, often life-threatening conditions to climb the highest peaks on Earth? Famed British mountaineer George Mallory, when asked why he wanted to climb Mount Everest, allegedly quipped, “because it’s there.” Those three words still carry a lot of weight among mountaineering circles, but there are deeper reasons why humans push themselves to the limits.
Ed Viesturs is arguably the most accomplished American climber ever, having reached the summit of all 14 peaks over 8,000 meters– only the fifth person to do it without supplemental oxygen. In a National Geographic Live special, Viesturs talks about the inspiration and the will to climb, especially in the face of overwhelming physical barriers and seemingly insurmountable mental barriers.
Ed Viesturs: The Will to Climb from National Geographic Live and National Geographic Live on FORA.tv
