About this item

Patagonias Cerro Torre, considered by many the most beautiful peak in the world, draws the finest and most devoted technical alpinists to its climbing challenges. But controversy has swirled around this ice-capped peak since Cesare Maestri claimed first ascent in 1959. Since then a debate has raged, with world-class climbers attempting to retrace his route but finding only contradictions. This chronicle of hubris, heroism, controversies and epic journeys offers a glimpse into the human condition, and why some pursue extreme endeavors that at face value have no worth.,



About the Author

Kelly Cordes

Kelly Cordes lives in Estes Park, Colorado. After finishing graduate school in 1994, he worked a multitude of dead-end jobs while living in low-rent shacks to pursue his passion for climbing. From 2000 to 2012 he was an editor for the American Alpine Journal. In 2004 he and Josh Wharton made the first ascent of the Azeem Ridge on Pakistan's Great Trango Tower, and in 2007 he and Colin Haley climbed a new line by fair means to the summit of Cerro Torre.Kelly Cordes embodies the climbing spirit more than anyone I know. I admire him for the way he devotes himself completely to writing and the mountains. He is also my favorite storyteller. I can think of no one better to write the story of Cerro Torre.- Tommy Caldwell, professional climber



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