"In 2018, two couples set out on an expedition to Alaska's Hidden Mountains, one of the last wild ranges in North America. A rarity in modern climbing, the peaks were nearly unexplored and untouched, a place where few people had ever visited and granite spires still awaited first ascents. Inspired by generations of daring alpinists before them, the four friends were now compelled to strike out into uncharted territory themselves. This trip to the Hidden Mountains would be the culmination of years of climbing together, promising to test the foursome's skill and dedication to the sport. But as they would soon discover, no amount of preparation can account for the unknowns of true wilderness. As they neared the top of an unclimbed peak, rockfall grievously injured one of the team while he was out of sight, leaving him stranded and in critical condition. Over the course of the next nine hours, the other three climbers worked to reach their companion. What followed was a pulse-pounding rescue attempt by Alaska's elite pararescue jumpers in one of the most remote regions in the country--raising difficult questions about wilderness accessibility, technology's role in outdoor adventure, and what it means to weigh risk against the siren song of the mountains." -- inside front jacket flap.
Laura Waterman Books
Laura Waterman's writing delves into the profound connection between humanity and the wilderness, exploring themes of mountain ethics and stewardship born from a life lived off the grid. Collaborating with her husband, she authored works that emerged directly from their shared passion for climbing and their commitment to preserving wild spaces. Her literary contributions extend beyond practical guides to encompass deeply personal narratives, reflecting on the complexities of relationships and the human spirit's encounter with nature's grandeur. Through her distinct voice, Waterman invites readers to consider the ethical responsibilities that accompany our engagement with the natural world.


Exploring themes of wild places and mountain stewardship, this collection of poignant essays delves into the transformative power of nature and literature. The author shares personal reflections on building a new life after experiencing loss, connecting the threads of grief, resilience, and the healing aspects of the natural world. Each essay invites readers to consider the profound relationships between environment, reading, and personal growth.