5 Mountain Adventure Books to Read This Winter

Sure, you could learn to snowboard this winter or see if you actually like winter camping. Or, instead of venturing outside and braving the elements, you could experience adventure the comfortable way — cozy by the fire with a good book. Joanna Croston knows great mountain reads. She has worked as the Festival Director for the Banff Centre Mountain Film and Book Festival for five years, and has lived in the Rockies since 1998. While not a “snowflake” herself (she loves winter and is an avid backcountry skier) one of Croston’s winter luxuries is huddling by the fire, engrossed in a great read. Here are her five winter mountain-adventure book picks, so you can read about impressive cold-weather feats without having to go out there and do them yourself.

 

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To Live: Fighting for Life on the Killer Mountain by Élisabeth Revol

“French climber Revol tells the harrowing tale of being trapped alone high on the flanks of Nanga Parbat in the Himalayas in winter. This is a real page-turner — I read it in one go!”

Alone on the Ice: The Greatest Survival Story in the History of Exploration by David Roberts

“This book describes one of the most tragic survival stories of all time, where Douglas Mawson and his team attempt to cross [Antarctica] by dog sled. A classic adventure showcasing what humans are capable of.”

The Art of Shralpinism: Lessons from the Mountains by Jeremy Jones

“A guide to living life to the fullest and being safe. There are great nuggets of wisdom and exciting anecdotes from Jones’ life, and his laidback California vibe is highly entertaining and readable.”

Rising: Becoming the First Canadian Woman to Summit Everest, A Memoir by Sharon Wood

“Canmore author and climber Sharon Wood’s achievements are an inspiration to a whole new generation of women climbers. This is a must-read for anyone who has big dreams.”

Winter 8000: Climbing the World’s Highest Mountains in the Coldest Season by Bernadette McDonald

“This book is full of incredible adventures and unbelievable mountaineering feats. The best part [for readers] is not having to experience the pain and suffering first-hand!”