National Geographic has revealed footage of Jim Morrison’s groundbreaking ski descent of Mount Everest’s Hornbein Couloir, an achievement that redefines what is possible in modern mountaineering. The climb and descent, filmed for Everest North, mark a turning point in extreme exploration.
A Route Once Considered Impossible
On October 15, 2025, Morrison became the first to ski the Hornbein Couloir on Everest’s north face. The route, once described by Reinhold Messner as “the most beautiful on Everest,” remains the most treacherous. Starting at 20,000 feet and climbing nearly 9,000 feet to the 29,032-foot summit, Morrison entered the infamous Death Zone, where oxygen is dangerously limited. Because this Super Direct climb has seen only five prior successful summits, each attempt carries exceptional risk. The last recorded success occurred in 1991.
The “No-Fall Zone” Descent
After reaching the summit, Morrison began a solo 9,000-foot ski run down the face of the mountain. The descent, known as the “no-fall zone,” allowed no margin for error. Consequently, one slip would have meant certain death. His success—five years in preparation and three expeditions in the making—was a tribute to his late partner, Hilaree Nelson, who inspired much of his mountaineering spirit.
A Team Above the Clouds
To accomplish this goal, Morrison was supported by an elite team, including Jimmy Chin, Erich Roepke, Esteban “Topo” Mena, and veteran Sherpas. Together, they climbed Everest’s north face in China, avoiding the crowds of the southern route. As a result, they were often the only team on the mountain, adding isolation to an already intense challenge.
Filmed by the Team Behind Free Solo
The Academy Award®–winning duo Jimmy Chin and Chai Vasarhelyi, best known for Free Solo, captured every step of the journey for National Geographic’s upcoming film Everest North.
National Geographic Documentary Films’ “Everest North” (working title), from the Oscar® and BAFTA Award-winning directors of “Free Solo,” Chai Vasarhelyi and Jimmy Chin, is currently in production. The film is produced by Shannon Dill, Janet Yang, Bob Eisenhardt and Anna Barnes.
A New Chapter in Mountaineering History
This record-setting descent has been called “the last great problem” of ski mountaineering. Through courage, endurance, and innovation, Morrison’s triumph showcases the spirit that defines National Geographic adventures. Moreover, the upcoming film promises an unforgettable perspective from the top of the world.
Read the full story about Jim Morrison’s Everest expedition on National Geographic
