At 27,766 feet, and with several technical sections, Makalu is one of the most demanding climbs in the Himalayas. Follow along as a team of some of the top mountaineers attempt the first ski descent of the world's fifth-highest peak.
What Mountaineering Should Be
The five elite athletes on the team share their first-descent plans and expedition concerns
How Hilaree O'Neill Bounced Back
One of the best climbers of her generation points her skis down 27,766-foot Makalu
The Fast Track Guide
California guide Adrian Ballinger makes his play to become Everest's top dog with a climbing model that's fast, light—and very expensive
The No-Fall Zone
When freeskier Kit DesLauriers dropped in at 29,035 feet on Mount Everest in October, she became the first person to ski off the Seven Summits. Kit, her husband, Rob, and photographer Jimmy Chin also became the first Americans to ski from the top of the world's tallest mountain.
Skiing Makalu: The Trek to Base Camp
After a long and wet week, the team attempting to ski the world’s fifth-highest peak has made it to the base of Makalu
Skiing Makalu: The Puja Ceremony
As the team attempting the first ski descent of Makalu prepares to ascend, they first perform an ancient ritual
Skiing Makalu: Rest, Ski, Work, Play
The team attempting the first ski descent of Makalu finally gets a chance to play in the snow
Skiing Makalu: The Waiting Game
After a good weather window disappeared, the team waits for another in their attempt to make the first ski descent of Makalu.
