Jost Kobusch, 34, is attempting to scale the world’s highest peak solo, without supplemental oxygen, using the West Ridge route, which has never been successfully climbed in winter. A German climber is preparing for a rare winter challenge on Mount Everest that could make mountaineering history.
If successful, he would achieve a first-of-its-kind winter ascent of Everest via the West Ridge, one of the mountain’s challenging routes. However, winter ascents remain exceptionally rare. However, for Kobusch, the harsh conditions and relative isolation are part of the appeal.
Kobusch is heading to Nepal this week to prepare for the 8,849-metre ascent, which he hopes to make towards the end of December, according to a Reuters report . More than 10,000 people have climbed Mount Everest since Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay Sherpa first reached its summit in 1953, according to official data cited by The Independent . Only 14 climbers have successfully reached the summit between December and February, and none have used the West Ridge route.
“West Ridge is more beautiful, and as an alpinist I am looking for this beauty,” he said. Speaking to Reuters, he said he wanted to experience Everest away from the crowds that usually gather during other climbing seasons.
“My ultimate goal is to be the best alpinist that I can be,” he said, adding that he was drawn to the wilderness the mountain offers in winter.
In February 2020, four Sherpa mountaineers had to abandon their expedition after heavy snowfall made the route dangerous. The team had reached close to its third camp at 7,100 metres before deciding to turn back following 34 hours of continuous snowfall, according to a report by The Japan Times . The West Ridge has also proved challenging for other climbers attempting it in winter.
