BREAKING NEWS: Bay Area native Jim Morrison made history on October 15 by completing the first-ever ski descent of the perilous Hornbein Couloir on Mount Everest. Starting from an altitude of 29,032 feet, Morrison’s daring feat is poised to redefine extreme skiing and mountaineering.
In a breathtaking display of skill, Morrison descended the notorious couloir, known for its steep, icy 50-degree slopes. This groundbreaking achievement took approximately four hours and required Morrison to maintain flawless focus throughout the descent. “You can’t make a single mistake — like a blown edge, or if you slip, you know,” he told ABC7 News, emphasizing the life-or-death stakes involved.
Morrison, hailing from Walnut Creek, was joined by celebrated filmmaker and mountaineer Jimmy Chin, who is directing a documentary for National Geographic about this historic endeavor. The documentary is being created by the same team behind the Oscar-winning film “Free Solo,” ensuring that Morrison’s remarkable achievement will be immortalized on screen.
This expedition was not only a testament to his extraordinary skills but also a deeply personal tribute to his late partner, Hilaree Nelson, who tragically passed away three years ago. Before commencing his descent, Morrison honored Nelson by scattering her ashes at Everest’s summit. He expressed his emotional connection, stating, “I had a little conversation with her and felt like I could dedicate the whole day to her.”
Morrison’s descent is not just a personal milestone; it represents a significant moment in mountaineering history. The Hornbein Couloir is regarded as one of the most challenging skiing routes on earth, and Morrison’s achievement showcases the heights of human perseverance and dedication.
As the world watches, the climbing community is buzzing with admiration for Morrison’s groundbreaking accomplishment. This remarkable ski descent on Everest not only honors Nelson’s legacy but also inspires future adventurers to push their limits in the face of nature’s fiercest challenges.
Stay tuned for more updates as the story develops, including insights from Morrison and Chin on the making of the documentary and the impact of this historic descent.
