Why Bernadette McDonald Writes About Climbing’s Toughest Fringe Communities

This story, originally titled “Overlooked,” appeared in our 2024 print edition of Ascent. You can buy a copy of the magazine here.

One of the most shameful facts about the international climbing industry—yes, industry—is that many of the world’s most impressive mountain feats are accomplished by climbers who receive very little acclaim and limited remuneration for their work. Many of these individuals are underequipped and undertrained Nepali and Balti climbers who, time and again, have demonstrated legendary endurance...