The Impossible Climb

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In Mark Synnott's exploration of climbing culture, Alex Honnold's breathtaking free solo ascent of El Capitan stands as the central event. On June 3, 2017, Honnold reached the summit after less than four hours, prompting a global reaction that The New York Times hailed as "one of the great athletic feats of any kind, ever." Synnott shares his lifelong obsession with climbing, reflecting on both triumphs and challenges, ultimately presenting a deeply reported narrative about embracing life fully. He questions what it means to undertake an impossible climb. Synnott examines the roots of climbing culture from Yosemite's Golden Age, where pioneers like Royal Robbins and Warren Harding shaped the sport that Honnold would redefine. He offers a candid portrait of climbing history, profiling Yosemite legends and the eclectic groups known as the Stonemasters and Stone Monkeys. Through personal anecdotes, he provides poignant insights: from tensions on Pakistan's Great Trango Tower to navigating challenges in Borneo and facing armed bandits in the Chad desert. This narrative is an emotional journey of individuals pushing the boundaries of human potential and seeking harmony with nature. Honnold's extraordinary achievement resonates with everyone, urging us to confront our fears and maximize our time.