This guide explains how to watch 2025 IFSC Climbing World Championships live streams over the first round of the competition. There are free viewing options in the US and Canada, and we also explain how you can use a safe VPN to watch your usual coverage if you're away from home.

We're approaching the start of the 2025 IFSC Climbing World Championships, but there's still time to grab a free stream and catch the action ahead of lead climbing qualification on day one (Sept 21, 6am BST / 1 am ET).

The IFSC World Climbing Championships is different from the World Cup season. It’s a stand-alone event, held every two years, that crowns world champions in each discipline.

This week's 19th edition takes place in Seoul, South Korea, where the world's best boulderers, speed climbers, and lead climbers will compete against each other over 7 days of blister-inducing holds.

Multiple world champion and legend of the sport, Kim Jain will be in front of her home crowd alongside Seo Chaehyun.

Each discipline has separate medals. Unlike the Olympics, there’s no combined format here—so a climber can become world champion in one discipline without competing in the others.

Read on to find out how and where to watch the 2025 IFSC Climbing World Championships wherever you are in the world.

Our guide to rock climbing terms will help you keep up with any unfamiliar jargon in the commentary, and if you want to give this exciting sport a try for yourself, you can also read about getting started in climbing.

Watch the IFSC Climbing World Championships for free in the U.S. and Canada

Want to watch from the U.S. or Canada? Then you're in luck, as you'll be able to stream the entire 2025 competition for free on the IFSC YouTube channel. In addition to live coverage, you can find highlights, interviews, and other awesome content from the competition. Viewers outside of the States and Canada can also access this content, but live coverage will be blocked (hence why you might need a good quality VPN).

If you're lucky enough to be in the U.S. or Canada, your viewing options aren't limited either, as live coverage is also available on the Olympics channel via Olympics.com. Here, you'll have access to even more highlights, build-up, and reaction to competition.

Traveling outside the U.S or Canada? You can still watch live as usual by using a quality VPN like NordVPN, which allows you to access the streams as if you were sitting on your sofa back home. Find out more below.

Use a VPN to watch the Climbing World Championships Seoul from anywhere

If you’re traveling overseas during the 2025 World Championships, geo-blocking restrictions mean you probably won't be able to watch as you usually would back home.

That doesn't mean you have to miss out, however. All you need to do to watch as if you were back home is get yourself a VPN (Virtual Private Network) – assuming it complies with your broadcaster’s T&Cs, of course. A VPN creates a private connection between your device and the internet, meaning the service can’t work out where you are. As an added bonus, the info going back and forth is also entirely encrypted.

In a competitive field, our expert colleagues at TechRadar put NordVPN at the top of the podium for VPN services. Right now, you can snag up to 70% off NordVPN, but don't sleep on this deal - it ends on July 31.

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

Watch the IFSC World Championships from the UK and Europe

Thanks to a recently agreed rights deal, viewers in the United Kingdom and Europe can stream most of the 2025 IFSC sport climbing events exclusively on Warner Bros Discovery’s streaming services.

In the UK and Ireland that means TNT Sports, which you can access via a subscription to Discovery+ Premium. It will cost you £30.99 per month in the UK and you’ll also get access to Champions League (TechRadar) and Premier League football, Premiership rugby, cycling and loads more top sporting action. Alternatively, TNT Sports can be added to your Sky, BT, EE or Virgin Media TV package – costs vary by platform.

In Europe, you can watch 2025 Climbing World Championships live streams on Eurosport or via the Discovery+ platform.

And don’t forget, if you’re going to be traveling away from home during any of the Climbing World Championships events, you can use a VPN to watch your usual service as if you were back home.

About this week's event

he 19th edition of the IFSC Climbing World Championships will be held in Seoul, South Korea, from 21 to 28 September 2025 at the KSPO Dome. The event covers three main disciplines—Lead, Boulder, and Speed—as well as Para-Climbing.

In Lead, top climbers include Austria’s Jakob Schubert, the defending men’s world champion, and Slovenia’s Janja Garnbret, whose haul of world-championship medals is just below Schubert’s but whose recent form makes her a favourite. (per IFSC Climbing) In Speed, world record holders such as Sam Watson and Aleksandra Miroslaw will be among the favourites, though some previous champions (such as Veddriq Leonardo and Desak Dewi) will not compete (per IFSC Climbing)

In Boulder, France and Japan present deep lineups. Janja Garnbret will defend the women’s title; for the men, since Mickael Mawem (the 2023 men’s Boulder champ) is not competing, a new champion is assured. Rising climbers, new finalists and young talent also feature prominently in previews.

The competition schedule starts with qualifications in the early days, leading into finals for Speed and Boulder mid-week, and culminating with Lead finals toward the end.

IFSC World Championships Schedule

All times local (Korea Standard Time, UTC+9)

Sunday 21 September – 14:00 – Lead qualification rounds begin

Monday 22 September – 09:00 – More Lead qualification rounds

Tuesday 23 September – 09:00 – Boulder qualifications for men & women

Wednesday 24 September – 09:00 – Women’s Speed qualification

Wednesday 24 September – 20:00 – Women’s Speed final

Thursday 25 September – 09:00 – Men’s Speed qualification

Thursday 25 September – 20:00 – Men’s Speed final

Friday 26 September – 10:00 – Lead semi-finals (both men & women)

Friday 26 September – 20:00 – Lead finals for both genders

Saturday 27 September – 10:00 – Women’s Boulder semi-final

Saturday 27 September – 20:00 – Women’s Boulder final

Sunday 28 September – 10:00Men’s Boulder semi-final

Sunday 28 September – 20:00Men’s Boulder final

• Everything to know about climbing and mountaineering

Good news outdoor lovers, Untamed has been renewed for a second season!

The murder-mystery series set in Yosemite National Park was a smash hit when it premiered on Netflix last month, earning critical acclaim and drawing plenty of eyeballs.

Although it's yet to confirm a release date, Netflix has announced that Untamed will be returning to our screens.

“I am absolutely thrilled that we get the chance to bring another season of Untamed to life. The response to season one has been a testament to the incredible effort by our crew to deliver something truly unique," said lead actor Eric Bana, who plays the brooding special agent, Kyle Turner.

Season one follows Turner as he investigates the death of a woman who appears to have fallen from Yosemite's towering El Capitan. He teams up with fresh-faced National Park Service ranger Naya Vasquez, played by Lily Santiago, to investigate the incident, and soon realizes that all isn't what it seems.

You can watch the trailer for season one below:

The show is set within Yosemite National Park, and takes viewers to all corners of the 1,169-square-mile (3,028²) wilderness area.

The series debuted earlier this month to worldwide success, topping Netflix’s global Top 10 English-language shows table for the week commencing July 14. It's now earned more than 25 million viewers.

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is one of America's largest and most popular parks. It's visited by upwards of four million people annually, who come to run, hike, camp, and climb in the stunning North American wilderness.

Along with hundreds of picturesque hiking trails, Yosemite is home to the towering El Capitan peak, which sits around 7,569ft (2,307m) above sea level and offers breathtaking views to anyone bold enough to climb it.

El Cap is well-known in the climbing community, but gained new notoriety in 2018 with the release of Free Solo, a film documenting climber Alex Honnold's journey to become the first person to scale the Californian behemoth without additional safety equipment.

• The best climbing films: 10 great movies about incredible mountain adventures
• The best trekking poles: take the pressure off when you're out on the trails

If you were excited about the teaser that landed in June, you'll be thrilled to hear that Netflix has released the official trailer for the upcoming Untamed, a limited murder-mystery series set in Yosemite National Park.

The series stars Eric Bana as Kyle Turner, a special agent for the National Park Service Investigative Services Branch (ISB), as he investigates the death of a woman who, at first glance, appears to have accidentally fallen from El Capitan. Teaming up with new ranger Naya Vasquez, played by Lily Santiago, they soon find that not all is as it seems.

Soon the pair find themselves not only confronting shadowy secrets within the vast national park, but also in their own pasts.

Having watched the trailer, we can safely say that, for Yosemite enthusiasts and lovers of the great outdoors across the world, it looks an absolute visual treat.

The full series goes live on Netflix from July 17 in the US and UK. Watch the official trailer below:

What we know about Untamed

The series was created by screenwriters Mark L. Smith (The Revenant, Twisters) and Elle Smith (The Marsh King's Daughter). Other cast members include Sam Neill, of Jurassic Park fame, Rosemary DeWitt, Wilson Bethel and William Smille.

Central to the mystery surrounding the death on El Capitan becomes the question: what was the victim running from? Details on the plot are scarce, though the trailer, as well as a feature on Netflix's Tudum, provide a few hints.

Main character, the haunted Kyle Turner, faces a struggle to reconcile events surrounding a past case, while striving to solve this new one. The trailer shows him not only rappelling from the top of a cliff, but also going deep underground to unearth shady secrets. In one of the trailer's more chilling moments, a character utters: "bodies will fall like the stars." While Bana's Turner later asserts: "I think the killings are connected." Serial killer? Or perhaps it's an over zealous black bear? Our money is on the former.

Yosemite as a setting is like a character in itself and the creators were clearly inspired by its scale. "In a lot of these parks, people visit about 3%, 4% of the actual land,” says creator Elle Smith. “You see the village and you see the main points, but you don’t get into the back country and you don’t really see the mass square footage of the place.”

It's a sentiment echoed by Sam Neill's character, chief park ranger Paul Souter, in the trailer. He says: "We have close to a million acres of wilderness. That's a lot of ground to cover – and a lot of places to hide."

Untamed isn't the only trailer that outdoor enthusiasts have gotten excited over of late. Superstar climber Alex Honnold, along with British climbing great Hazel Findlay and Brette Harrington, of The Alpinist fame, are also cast members in the climbing horror movie – The Sound, the trailer for which was released last month (see below).

• The best hiking boots: protect your feet on any trail
• The best waterproof jackets: brave the elements

Patagonia has launched a new short film series: Parenting: Disaster Style and the first episode has just dropped. The series follows the adventures of alpinists Zoe Hart and her husband, Maxime Turgeon, as they introduce their children, Mathias and Mika, to the great outdoors and all things adventure.

The series sees the young family go backcountry skiing in Italy, dirtbag along the French coast and cultivate food at their Chamonix home, beneath the watchful Mont Blanc.

Hart and Turgeon hope to engender the same love of the natural world and mountain adventure that they enjoy to their kids, while also increasing their resilience and self-belief. Hart says: "if you push your kids past what they think is possible, whether it’s being cold or tired or wet, they’ll learn they have the capacity to do way more than they thought they could.”

Before having kids, in their search for mountain adventure on some of the world's most technical peaks, Hart and Turgeon had endured their fair share of epics and freezing cold nights on some far-flung wall or other.

Tongue firmly in cheek, they called their style 'Disaster Alpinism', which is how the series got its name. "Go at it, throw everything into it, it's usually epic and afterwards it's really awesome," says Hart about both alpinism and parenting.

Zoe Hart is a Chamonix-based International Mountain Guide originally from the East Coast of the US. A passionate adventurer and mother, she is determined to live life to the limits and strives for never-ending growth.

Watch episode one

Episode one went live on June 18, introducing the family and their ethos, as they set off on family adventures to climb and enjoy the tranquility of the great outdoors. Watch it here and keep one eye on Patagonia's YouTube channel for future epsidoes.

• The best family tents: spacious shelters for the whole tribe
• The best winter hiking boots: for unbeatable performance in the cold

The action is heating up in hit US survival reality TV show Alone, and if you're anything like the Advnture team you won't want to miss an episode. But if like many of our expert gear testers, you spent a lot of time travelling abroad, it's not always easy to catch up.

That's where VPN (Virtual Private Network) services come in, as they allow you to avoid the geo-restrictions that can kick in when you touch down in another country.

NordVPN is recommended by the experts on our sister site Techradar, and has just launched an exclusive deal for Advnture readers.

Right now you can get up to 79% off NordVPN, four months free and a free Amazon gift card as well. But the offer only runs until July 10, so you'll need to be quick!

After last year’s trip to the Arctic Circle, Alone season 12’s producers are sending the latest batch of survivalists on a very different adventure. This time out they’ll fend for themselves in South Africa’s semi-desert Great Karoo region, where water will be scarce, and elephants, giraffes, leopards and lions roam wild.

The location may have changed for Alone season 12 but the premise remains the same. Ten brave survivalists will be dropped in the middle of nowhere where they’ll have to survive in extremely hostile conditions. Armed with just their clothes and the 10 items they’ve selected from a pre-mandated list (items like toothpaste and fishing line hardly count as luxuries), the contestants have to use their wits to hunt, forage and protect themselves from the elements. The player who lasts the longest will take home a cash prize of $500,000.

To make things even harder, they won’t have any company on this most extreme of reality shows. They won’t even have a camera crew to interact with, as every one of Alone season 12’s survivalists will have to record their exploits using an assortment of cameras, GoPros and mounts.

You can stream the whole season online in the US and Australia. And don’t worry if you’re heading overseas at any time over the next couple of months. We’ll explain how you can use a VPN to unblock your usual streaming service and watch Alone season 12 wherever you are in the world.

Watch Alone Season 12 anywhere with NordVPN

How to watch Alone season 12 online in the US

US viewers can tune into Alone season 12 on the History Channel, with new episodes of the 10-part season debuting every Thursday. The latest episodes will also be available to stream on History.com the following day.

The 11 previous seasons of Alone are available to watch via the Hulu streaming service.

If you’re based in the US and don’t have cable you can stream the History Channel via Sling TV and Fubo.

If you’re heading off an overseas adventure of your own you'll need a powerful VPN to unblock your usual American streamer when overseas. Find out more below.

How to use a VPN

Geo-blocking means you won’t be able to watch Alone season 12 from everywhere, but US viewers who are traveling overseas but can‘t survive without the latest episodes don’t have to miss out. With a good VPN (virtual private network), you can stream the shows you love from anywhere.

NordVPN is the best of the bunch as it offers superb speeds and excellent customer service.

Using a VPN is incredibly simple.

1. Install the VPN of your choice. As we've said, NordVPN is our favorite.

2. Choose the location you wish to connect to in the VPN app. For instance, if you're in the US and want to view your usual American service, you'd select US from the list.

3. Sit back and enjoy the show. Head to your platform of choice and stream Alone season 12 from anywhere on the planet!

Can I watch Alone US season 12 in the UK?

New seasons of the American version of Alone usually air on Sky History in the UK but they usually take a few months to arrive. We recommend keeping an eye on TV listings in August.

Don't forget: US fans visiting the UK can tap into their usual American streaming services and watch Alone season 12 from anywhere with NordVPN. Details above.

Watch Alone season 12 in Australia

Australian viewers can watch Alone season 12 on streaming service Stan, with new episodes debuting every Friday from June 13. Subscriptions start at $12 AUD per month.

If you want to catch up on most of the previous adventures, the first 10 seasons of Alone US are available for free via SBS on Demand, along with episodes of spin-off show Alone Australia.

Aussies traveling overseas can use one of the best VPN services to access their usual streaming service from abroad. We recommend NordVPN.

Alone season 12 trailer

Alone season 12 FAQs

Alone season 12 contestants

• Pablo Arguelles (55), video editor from Jacksonville, Florida
• Colton Gilman (35), carpenter from Red Lodge, Montana
• Will Lamb (34), exotic animal rancher/fabricator from Leakey, Texas
• Kelsey Loper (35), horse trainer from Winnett, Montana
• Baha Mahmutov (50), homesteader/railroad maintenance from Wharncliff, Ontario, Canada
• Douglas S Meyer (57), primitive technology instructor from Kannapolis, North Carolina
• Dug North (53), user experience designer from Nashua, New Hampshire
• Nathan Olsen (52), tech CEO from Buhl, Idaho
• Jit Patel (35), outdoor educator from Anakiwa, New Zealand
• Katie Rydge (46), survival skills instructor and mentor, Emerald Beach, NSW, Australia

Alone season 12 episode list

• Prologue (Thursday, June 12) – "Before the Drop"
• Episode 1 (Thursday, June 12) – "The Land of Great Thirst"
• Episode 2 (Thursday, June 19) – "Best Laid Plans"
• Episode 3 (Thursday, June 26) – "Thirst Trap"
• Episode 4 (Thursday, July 3) – "Finding a Foothold"
• Episode 5 (Thursday, July 10) – "The Tempest"
• Episode 6 (Thursday, July 17) – "Purpose"
• Episode 7 (Thursday, July 24) – "Echoes of Emptiness"
• Episode 8 (Thursday, July 31) – "Weak Spot"
• Episode 9 (Thursday, August 7) – "The Promised Land"
• Episode 10 (Thursday, August 14) – "No Regrets"

More from Advnture

• The best water purifiers and filters: clever devices for supplying fresh drinking water
• How to survive a night on a mountain
• We asked Leatherman for their top recommendations. Here’s what they said

VPN services are evaluated and tested by us in view of legal recreational use. For example:a) Access to services from other countries, (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).b) Safeguarding your online security and making your online privacy more robust when abroad.Future plc does not support nor condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. We do not endorse nor approve of consuming pirated content that is paid-for.

Season 12 of Alone, the hit US survival reality TV show, premieres on the History Channel on Thursday, June 12, 2025

After last year’s trip to the Arctic Circle, Alone season 12’s producers are sending the latest batch of survivalists on a very different adventure. This time out they’ll fend for themselves in South Africa’s semi-desert Great Karoo region, where water will be scarce, and elephants, giraffes, leopards and lions roam wild.

The location may have changed for Alone season 12 but the premise remains the same. Ten brave survivalists will be dropped in the middle of nowhere where they’ll have to survive in extremely hostile conditions. Armed with just their clothes and the 10 items they’ve selected from a pre-mandated list (items like toothpaste and fishing line hardly count as luxuries), the contestants have to use their wits to hunt, forage and protect themselves from the elements. The player who lasts the longest will take home a cash prize of $500,000.

To make things even harder, they won’t have any company on this most extreme of reality shows. They won’t even have a camera crew to interact with, as every one of Alone season 12’s survivalists will have to record their exploits using an assortment of cameras, GoPros and mounts.

You can stream the whole season online in the US and Australia. And don’t worry if you’re heading overseas at any time over the next couple of months. We’ll explain how you can use a VPN to unblock your usual streaming service and watch Alone season 12 wherever you are in the world.

How to watch Alone season 12 online in the US

US viewers can tune into Alone season 12 on the History Channel, with new episodes of the 10-part season debuting every Thursday. The latest episodes will also be available to stream on History.com the following day.

The 11 previous seasons of Alone are available to watch via the Hulu streaming service.

If you’re based in the US and don’t have cable you can stream the History Channel via Sling TV and Fubo.

If you’re heading off an overseas adventure of your own you'll need a powerful VPN to unblock your usual American streamer when overseas. Find out more below.

Watch Alone season 12 from anywhere in the world

Geo-blocking means you won’t be able to watch Alone season 12 from everywhere, but US viewers who are traveling overseas but can‘t survive without the latest episodes don’t have to miss out. With a good VPN (virtual private network), you can stream the shows you love from anywhere.

NordVPN is the best of the bunch as it offers superb speeds and excellent customer service.

Using a VPN is incredibly simple.

1. Install the VPN of your choice. As we've said, NordVPN is our favorite.

2. Choose the location you wish to connect to in the VPN app. For instance, if you're in the US and want to view your usual American service, you'd select US from the list.

3. Sit back and enjoy the show. Head to your platform of choice and stream Alone season 12 from anywhere on the planet!

Can I watch Alone US season 12 in the UK?

New seasons of the American version of Alone usually air on Sky History in the UK but they usually take a few months to arrive. We recommend keeping an eye on TV listings in August.

Don't forget: US fans visiting the UK can tap into their usual American streaming services and watch Alone season 12 from anywhere with NordVPN. Details above.

Watch Alone season 12 in Australia

Australian viewers can watch Alone season 12 on streaming service Stan, with new episodes debuting every Friday from June 13. Subscriptions start at $12 AUD per month.

If you want to catch up on most of the previous adventures, the first 10 seasons of Alone US are available for free via SBS on Demand, along with episodes of spin-off show Alone Australia.

Aussies traveling overseas can use one of the best VPN services to access their usual streaming service from abroad. We recommend NordVPN.

Alone season 12 trailer

Alone season 12 FAQs

Alone season 12 contestants

• Pablo Arguelles (55), video editor from Jacksonville, Florida
• Colton Gilman (35), carpenter from Red Lodge, Montana
• Will Lamb (34), exotic animal rancher/fabricator from Leakey, Texas
• Kelsey Loper (35), horse trainer from Winnett, Montana
• Baha Mahmutov (50), homesteader/railroad maintenance from Wharncliff, Ontario, Canada
• Douglas S Meyer (57), primitive technology instructor from Kannapolis, North Carolina
• Dug North (53), user experience designer from Nashua, New Hampshire
• Nathan Olsen (52), tech CEO from Buhl, Idaho
• Jit Patel (35), outdoor educator from Anakiwa, New Zealand
• Katie Rydge (46), survival skills instructor and mentor, Emerald Beach, NSW, Australia

Alone season 12 episode list

• Prologue (Thursday, June 12) – "Before the Drop"
• Episode 1 (Thursday, June 12) – "The Land of Great Thirst"
• Episode 2 (Thursday, June 19) – "Best Laid Plans"
• Episode 3 (Thursday, June 26) – "Thirst Trap"
• Episode 4 (Thursday, July 3) – "Finding a Foothold"
• Episode 5 (Thursday, July 10) – "The Tempest"
• Episode 6 (Thursday, July 17) – "Purpose"
• Episode 7 (Thursday, July 24) – "Echoes of Emptiness"
• Episode 8 (Thursday, July 31) – "Weak Spot"
• Episode 9 (Thursday, August 7) – "The Promised Land"
• Episode 10 (Thursday, August 14) – "No Regrets"

More from Advnture

• The best water purifiers and filters: clever devices for supplying fresh drinking water
• How to survive a night on a mountain
• We asked Leatherman for their top recommendations. Here’s what they said

VPN services are evaluated and tested by us in view of legal recreational use. For example:a) Access to services from other countries, (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).b) Safeguarding your online security and making your online privacy more robust when abroad.Future plc does not support nor condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. We do not endorse nor approve of consuming pirated content that is paid-for.

It's easy to deduce from the name of the just-released documentary from Red Bull Studios that Emily Harrison is a woman who climbs. More than that though, this talented Colorado native is a lover of big walls and high-altitude expeditions. What the movie title doesn't give away is that she has five US National Champion titles and numerous first female ascents of 5.14 routes under her belt.

She's summited Mount Everest and made a complete ski descent of Cho Oyu – the world’s sixth tallest peak on the China–Nepal border. In 2020 she made history by becoming the first woman to freeclimb the Golden Gate route of El Capitan in Yosemite National Park in under 24 hours, making her the fourth woman in history to free climb El Capitan in a day.

It was her fourth attempt, and she did it after a suffering a horrifying fall from El Capitan in 2019, when other climbers, including Alex Honnold, came to her aid.

The Girl Climber film focusses on this incredible career-defining 24-hour ascent of Yosemite’s El Capitan, which cemented her legacy in the male-dominated world of elite rock climbing.

In a revealing social media post, above, Harrington describes the documentary as "a more thorough version of my story".

She describes how climbing Golden Gate in a day was a very "precious and personal" goal, which she says was ultimately "taken away" from her by the media.

"Once I was successful the subsequent perfect storm of media and press let it escape into the world and it no longer felt like my story. Those quiet moments of struggle, fear, and self doubt that were overcome through sheer will power and hard work gave way to stories of heroism and sensationalism only the mainstream media could drum up. It wasn’t mine anymore; it was the world’s story to put on a pedestal and elevate or tear down and pick apart," she says.

However, Girl Climber gives her back the opportunity to tell the story from her point of view. "I could not be more excited, grateful, and admittedly terrified to see it on the big stage," she says.

Unveiled at Telluride Mountainfilm Festival, the documentary focusses on the pursuit of personal ambition and the ticking biological clock of life, as well as the greatest challenges that extend beyond the physical.

Also featured is mentor, Hilaree Nelson - the late ski mountaineer, friend Alex Honnold and her husband, high-altitude mountain guide Adrian Ballinger.

You can watch Girl Climber on jolt.film and see some of her achievements in the short film below.

Get to know Emily Harrington

• The best climbing shoes: get a grip indoors and out
• The best climbing shoes for women: for indoor climbing sessions, valley cragging and all-day mountain adventures

Elite climber Nina Caprez, an Arc'teryx sponsored athlete, has unveiled her new film: Andrea: an Unpaved Route. A story of motherhood, adversity, community and an uncompromising approach to adventure as a parent, it's an inspiring and deeply moving watch.

In the film, Nina, a decorated sport and big wall climber, along with her partner Jérémy Bernard and their daughter Lia, set out on a journey across Morocco. They drive through the country in Andrea, their personalized Unimog four-wheel drive truck and the centerpiece of a non-profit project to bring adventure to local communities. The truck comes complete with solar panels and an in-built climbing wall.

En route, they visit some beautifully remote and wild climbing spots, where Nina explores what it is to be a climber and a mother, connecting with other women along the way. It's a hopeful study in how adventure can be redefined as a parent and how relationships and communities can be forged through climbing, even in tough times.

In its early part, the film documents the circumstances surrounding the arrival of Nina's daughter Lia, who was born with a heart defect: a deformed aortic valve. "The world collapsed around us," says Nina in the film. Lia's subsequent recovery after surgery provides the springboard for their family adventure to Morocco and sets the emotional tone of the film.

Once in Morocco, a catastrophe strikes, putting the strength of their Andrea project to the test, as they seek to provide assistance in the aftermath.

Who is Nina Caprez?

Nina is a Swiss professional climber and Arc'teryx sponsored athlete who has conquered routes around the world, from classics on Oregon's Smith Rock to big walls in Patagonia and Kyrgyzstan. As one of the world's leading big wall and sport climbers, she has numerous first ascents to her name, including the first female ascents of El Niño (5.13c, 8a+) in Yosemite and of Merci la vie (also 5.13c, 8a+) on the famous North Face of the Eiger.

She and partner Jérémy Bernard, an extreme sports photographer, have forged a life together where they can continue to follow their passions.

Watch the film

Leading trail running brand Salomon has teamed up with Warner Bros Discovery to broadcast the Golden Trail World Series circuit for 2025. The multi-year partnership means you'll be able to enjoy the leading short-distance trail running circuit from anywhere in the world.

This guide explains how to watch the Golden Trail World Series in 2025. We also explain how you can use a VPN to watch your usual coverage if you're away from home.

Live coverage of the series will be broadcast across WBD’s premium linear channels, including Eurosport (Europe) and Discovery+ and TNT Sports (UK and Ireland), as well as live and on-demand streaming via streaming platforms Max (US) and FloSports (Canada).

Live streaming of the GTWS comes in addition to broadcasts of around a dozen races in this year's UTMB World Series, giving you even more access to the world's top trail races.

Watch the GTWS in the U.S. and Canada

In the US, you can watch the 2025 GTWS via streaming on Max, and in Canada you can watch it on FloSports.

Traveling outside the U.S or Canada? You can still watch live as usual by using a quality VPN like NordVPN, which allows you to access the streams as if you were sitting on your sofa back home. Find out more below.

Use a VPN to watch the Golden Trail World Series from anywhere

If you’re traveling overseas during the GTWS, geo-blocking restrictions mean you probably won't be able to watch as you usually would back home.

That doesn't mean you have to miss out, however. All you need to do to watch as if you were back home is get yourself a VPN (Virtual Private Network) – assuming it complies with your broadcaster’s T&Cs, of course. A VPN creates a private connection between your device and the internet, meaning the service can’t work out where you are. As an added bonus, the info going back and forth is also entirely encrypted.

In a competitive field, the knowledgeable people at TechRadar put NordVPN at the top of the podium.

Watch the GTWS from the UK and Europe

Thanks to the new deal between Salomon and Warner Bros Discovery, viewers in the UK and Europe can now stream all nine races of the 2025 GTWS exclusively on Warner Bros Discovery’s streaming services.

In the UK and Ireland, that means TNT Sports, which you can access via a subscription to Discovery+ Premium. It will cost you £30.99 per month in the UK and you’ll also get access to Champions League and Premier League football, Premiership rugby, cycling and loads more top sporting action. Alternatively, TNT Sports can be added to your Sky, BT, EE or Virgin Media TV package – costs vary by platform.

In Europe, you can watch the 2025 GTWS live streams on Eurosport or via the Discovery+ platform.

And don’t forget, if you’re going to be traveling away from home during any of the GTWS events, you can use a VPN to watch your usual service as if you were back home.

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

Golden Trail World Series schedule

• April 19: Kobe Trail, Japan
• April 26: Great Wall, China
• May 17: Golfo dell Isola, Italy
• May 25: Zegama-Aizkorri, Spain
• June 22: Broken Arrow Skyrace, US
• June 29: Tepec Trail, Mexico
• July 2: Pitz Alpine Glacier Trail, Austria
• July 9: Sierre-Zinal, Switzerland
• October TBD: Grand Finale, Garda Trentino, Italy

Annecy-based Salomon first brought the GTWS to live television in 2023 with Eurosport, which Salomon Global Chief Brand Officer Scott Mellin says was a milestone for trail running.

“The GTWS is a highly entertaining, TV-ready format with races lasting around 2 hours, featuring steep climbs and technical descents as well as a 'flower' format that allows spectators to see more of the race and better engage with the athletes," says Mellin.

“Salomon is one of the most successful, most recognizable and growing sports brands,” says Patrick Maitrot, Head of International Sales & Partnership at WBD Sports Europe.

“We are confident that our combined sports and storytelling expertise, coupled with WBD’s production capabilities, unmatched global scale and proven track record of elevating sports, will support the continued growth of trail running through greater international exposure than ever before.”

Salomon has been making headlines recently as trail running season ramps up for the year. Earlier this month, the brand unveiled its new running team featuring some of the best trail runners on the planet, including Courtney Dauwalter and Mathieu Blanchard, who have both claimed multiple podiums wearing their S/Lab Genesis and S/Lab Ultra shoes between them.

In February, the running shoe brand also announced a study suggesting that carbon plates may have no benefit for trail runners, not long after the release of its ultra plush, plate-free S/Lab Ultra Glide.

• The best trail shoes for ultra runners: these robust and comfy rides are built for serious outdoor adventures
• The best hydration packs: on-the-go refuelling for your runs

A new rock climbing documentary has been released showing three of the world's best climbers in a race to get back to sending a 9a route.

Race to 9A, directed by climber Simon Yamamoto, follows Alex Honnold, Tommy Caldwell and Sonnie Trotter as each man tries to become the first to return to climbing at 9a level – equal to 5.14d in the Yosemite Decimal System. It shouldn't be that hard, you might think – Caldwell climbed the Dawn Wall in 2014, Trotter repointed Estado Critico in Spain in 2015 and even though Honnold says his 9a attempts later turned out to be more like 8cs, no one doubts the Free Solo star's climbing abilities.

But the three men share a common affliction: they're getting older. They have families now. And their focus on training just isn't what it used to be.

"My life used to be all about rock climbing, and now I would put rock climbing as one of like four equal priorities," says Caldwell, who first climbed a 9a aged 18. Last year, we saw him climb a new route on the biggest alpine face in North America with Honnold, but the ensuing documentary The Devil's Climb highlighted the struggles of aging and climbing.

"When life gets busy and the kids are sick, it starts to get easier and easier to say, oh I'll do it tomorrow," says Trotter in the opening of the 28-minute flick. He began at age 16 and was the first Canadian to climb at 5.14c.

At the time of filming, in the spring of 2024, Honnold has a two-year-old and two-week old, so even though he himself is the baby of the trio – still in his 30s – he admits that even he's feeling the pace of family life.

"Realistically, over the last two months I've been climbing outside two days a week, maybe, and then training in the gym maybe two days a week and just totally haggard all the time," says Honnold.

Honnold says he thinks that Caldwell, 46, is having an easier time "grounding down" into middle age, and while the Dawn Wall star doesn't give off major FOMO vibes in Race to 9A, it was only in October 2023 that he expressed sadness after failing to send the Heart Route in Yosemite.

According to Honnold, all three have climbing partners already, but they're "24-year-olds without jobs who can spend six hours a day in the gym" and aren't up all night doing laundry like he is. So the three of them set what Trotter calls "a gentlemen's challenge" – each works on his own project to see who can be the first to get back to 9a graded routes.

The film shows the men visiting each other as they project their routes – and also bailing on visits due to sick kids – and contemplating the virtues of being in competition with climbers who are going through similar things.

"It's definitely ignited something in me where I know that they will be working towards the goal and I don't want to get too far behind," says Trotter, who's chosen Spirit Quest after belaying Caldwell on the route years ago.

"Basically, if I can exceed my own expectations and perform at a higher level than I thought I coul,d then that's that's fine," says Honnold philosophically about his attempt to send Bachelor Party on Potosi Mountain near his home in Vegas.

He says that as far as he's concerned, the only thing standing between him and being able to climb anything on earth is finger strength, but the accountability of his friends is helpful too.

"It helps to have training partners who are aspiring for the same things but also struggling with the same challenges."

If you follow the climbers, you probably already know who wins the race, but just in case, we won't spoil it for you. Check out the film below, which is refreshingly heartfelt and worthy of half an hour of your attention.

• Best approach shoes: for technical trails and scrambles
• The best climbing shoes: get a grip both indoors and out

This guide explains how to watch 2025 IFSC Climbing World Cup live streams over the first round of the competition. There are free viewing options in the US and Canada, and we also explain how you can use a VPN to watch your usual coverage if you're away from home.

We're approaching the end of the 2025 IFSC Climbing World Cup, but there's still plenty to climb for, and loads of action to catch.

This week's round takes the world's best climbers to Madrid, Spain, for the penultimate lead climbing round of a thrilling competition.

The IFSC Climbing World Cup pits the world's best boulderers, speed climbers, and lead climbers against each other over 14 separate competitions held across the globe and throughout the year.

Points from each competition are tallied up, and climbers are ranked on a leaderboard that decides the eventual world champions, otherwise known as series winners.

Read on to find out how and where to watch the 2025 IFSC Climbing World Cup wherever you are in the world.

Our guide to rock climbing terms will help you keep up with any unfamiliar jargon in the commentary, and if you want to give this exciting sport a try for yourself, you can also read about getting started in climbing.

Watch the IFSC Climbing World Cup for free in the U.S. and Canada

Want to watch from the U.S. or Canada? Then you're in luck, as you'll be able to stream the entire 2025 competition for free on the IFSC YouTube channel. In addition to live coverage, you can find highlights, interviews, and other awesome content from the competition. Viewers outside of the States and Canada can also access this content, but live coverage will be blocked.

If you're lucky enough to be in the U.S. or Canada, your viewing options aren't limited either, as live coverage is also available on the Olympics channel via Olympics.com. Here, you'll have access to even more highlights, build-up, and reaction to competition.

Traveling outside the U.S or Canada? You can still watch live as usual by using a quality VPN like NordVPN, which allows you to access the streams as if you were sitting on your sofa back home. Find out more below.

Use a VPN to watch the Climbing World Cup from anywhere

If you’re traveling overseas during the 2025 World Cup, geo-blocking restrictions mean you probably won't be able to watch as you usually would back home.

That doesn't mean you have to miss out, however. All you need to do to watch as if you were back home is get yourself a VPN (Virtual Private Network) – assuming it complies with your broadcaster’s T&Cs, of course. A VPN creates a private connection between your device and the internet, meaning the service can’t work out where you are. As an added bonus, the info going back and forth is also entirely encrypted.

In a competitive field, our expert colleagues at TechRadar put NordVPN at the top of the podium for VPN services. Right now, you can snag up to 79% off NordVPN, get four months extra for free and get a free Amazon gift card on top, but don't sleep on this deal - it ends on July 31.

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

Watch the IFSC World Cup from the UK and Europe

Thanks to a recently agreed rights deal, viewers in the United Kingdom and Europe can stream the semi-finals and finals of every 2025 IFSC World Cup events exclusively on Warner Bros Discovery’s streaming services.

In the UK and Ireland that means TNT Sports, which you can access via a subscription to Discovery+ Premium. It will cost you £30.99 per month in the UK and you’ll also get access to Champions League and Premier League football, Premiership rugby, cycling and loads more top sporting action. Alternatively, TNT Sports can be added to your Sky, BT, EE or Virgin Media TV package – costs vary by platform.

In Europe, you can watch 2025 Climbing World Cup live streams on Eurosport or via the Discovery+ platform.

And don’t forget, if you’re going to be traveling away from home during any of the Climbing World Cup events, you can use a VPN to watch your usual service as if you were back home.

About this week's event

Climbing fanatics from across the globe will be eager to catch the men's lead competition to see whether Japan's Sorato Anraku can make history and clinch his second consecutive World Cup series win.

The 18-year-old stormed to victory in the bouldering series last month and looks odds-on to do the same in the lead climbing competition. The teenager currently sits atop the lead climbing leaderboard with two gold medals under his belt, and victory this week would all but assure the coveted double series gold.

Great Britain's Toby Roberts and Japanese duo Satone Yoshida and Neo Suzuki are also in with a shot. The former is the current Olympic champion, and the latter two are the only climbers aside from Anraku to have won a round of this year's competition.

The women's lead climbing competition is a close-run affair between two relatively unknown climbers. Despite having little pedigree before this year's competition, South Korea's Chaehyun Seo and Erin McNeice of Great Britain have been ever-present atop the lead climbing table.

The pair tied for gold in an extraordinary opening round back in April and have since traded positions atop the leaderboard with two gold medals each and several podium finishes.

This year's women's bouldering competition has been a little different from previous years as two of the world's best all-around climbers are missing. USA's Natalia Grossman is recovering from knee injuries, while 47-time World Cup winner Janja Garnbret has missed all but one competition as she takes time to rest.

Neither will be competing in Madrid this week, which opens up the competition for either McNeice or Seo to snag a maiden World Cup series victory.

IFSC World Cup Schedule

Lead Qualification

• 11.30pm PT (July 17) / 2.30am EST (July 18) / 9.30am BST (July 18) Men's and women's qualification

Lead finals

• 11.30am PT (July 18) / 2.30pm EST (July 19) / 9.30pm BST (July 18) Men's and women's semi-finals
• 11.30am PT (July 19) / 2.30pm EST (July 20) / 9.30pm BST (July 19) Men's final
• 12.30pm PT (July 19) / 3.30pm EST (July 20) / 10.30pm BST (July 19) Women's final

In the 1990s, if you were adventuring in alpine zones, you had heavy mountaineering boots with stiff crampons to help you navigate snow and ice, but there was nothing for those who wanted to move fast and light. That's why 30 years ago, climber Danny Giovale found himself plummeting down an icy gully in the Dolomites with his life flashing before his eyes.

By some miracle, the American climber survived the fall, and when he returned to the US, he looked at the research and found that slips on snow is the second most common cause of accidents and death among climbers.

Giovale decided to put his experience to good use and got to work devising a lighter and more flexible traction device that could easily be stashed in your backpack and pulled out when needed for use with approach shoes and regular hiking boots.

“I realized the importance of being given a second chance and making a positive impact," says Giovale.

"This understanding led to the creation of our company, with a dual purpose: to innovate outdoor gear and be a force for good."

After years of iterations, the Kahtoola KTS crampon was released in 2002. The following year, Lhakpa Gelu Sherpa set the Everest speed record wearing a pair, and these days, few of us would consider heading out into the mountains without a pair of Kahtoola devices or similar tool in case we encounter snow and ice.

The story of Giovale's journey from near-death to trailblazing innovation is told in a fascinating new documentary titled Designed by Disaster, which you can watch below.

The 20-minute film also sees Giovale and his climbing partner Timmy O'Neill finally return to successfully climb the Grafter Route with their Kahtoola crampons.

These days, the Arizona company still makes the KTS crampons as a lighter weight alternative to traditional crampons, but has probably become better known for its slip-on Microspikes, which can work with any hiking footwear for winter trails, as well as even lighter Exospikes and Nanospikes which can be used for winter trail running.

Check out our article on winter traction devices, to learn more about these essential hiking tools, and remember that in any season, up high it can always be winter.

• The best crampons: tested for sure-footed traction on frozen terrain
• The best snowshoes: tested by experts

From Courtney Dauwalter crushing four 100 milers in a calendar year to Mikaela Shiffrin getting her hundredth World Cup Win, we love to hear about great women getting up to big things, but there are plenty of amazing stories that don't make the headlines and a women's film festival aims to put the spotlight on some of those unsung heroines. The Women's Adventure Film Tour is screening new short films that showcase extraordinary women and their thrilling adventures across the globe this spring.

Back for its ninth year, the tour includes screenings of Sliding, showcasing the sledding sport of skeleton and Dropping Molly, about climber Molly Mitchell’s roller coaster journey to climb “Crank-it” one of Colorado’s most dangerous routes.

And it's not only about women taking on the gnarliest challenges – in Forward, Anjelica Avella chronicles how she turned to the outdoors to improve her mental health, but discovered a lack of other plus-size women of color on the trail.

"Being adventurous doesn’t always mean being the fastest, going the highest, or doing the most extreme things," say the event's organizers at Adventure Entertainment.

"Adventure for most of us is stepping outside our comfort zone and climbing our own Everest. The films showcase real stories about women from a variety of cultures and sports around the world."

The program is two hours long and is making its way across cinemas and other venues all across the globe now through June, with more dates still to be added.

To find out when the screening is coming to your neighborhood, check out the schedule at Womens Adventure Film Tour.

• The best women’s hiking boots: for epic backcountry adventures
• The best women’s hiking backpacks: packs designed to fit the female form
• The best women’s waterproof jackets: your winter-ready hardshell awaits
• The best women’s climbing shoes: for indoor climbing sessions, valley cragging and all-day mountain adventures

Celebrity Bear Hunt featuring adventurer and former SAS trooper Bear Grylls drops on Netflix on Wednesday, February 5. In it, we see famous British faces journey to the Costa Rican jungle to be put through the toughest physical and mental challenges.

With Bear Grylls renowned for his survival skills and extreme adventure TV shows, the celebrities aren’t in for an easy ride.

“I’ve done many wild things in my life, but I’ve never hunted celebrities,” Grylls says.

You can stream every one of the eight episodes now, exclusively on Netflix.

• Release date: February 5, 2025
• Episodes: 1-8
• UK stream: Netflix
• Watch Celebrity Bear Hunt from anywhere with NordVPN

CELEBRITY BEAR HUNT PREVIEW

A group of unlikely British celebrities are dropped into the Central American jungle as prey for one of the world's toughest predators, Bear Grylls.

"It's about overcoming, and not falling down," Grylls says. "The celebrities won’t come out of this experience the same."

They’ll live together, learn survival skills and compete in grueling challenges. Lose, and they will face a true primal survival test – being hunted down by Bear Grylls in a deadly escape room, The Bear Pit.

If the celebrities are captured, they'll be eliminated from the show.

HOW TO WATCH CELEBRITY BEAR HUNT IN THE US

The brand new show, Celebrity Bear Hunt, lands exclusively on Netflix on February 5. All eight episodes drop at the same time.

Currently Netflix is not offering any free trials to US viewers. Prices start at $7.99 a month for the standard plan with ads.

Heading off on your travels? Depending on where you're going, you may need a powerful VPN to unblock your usual American streamer when overseas and watch Celebrity Bear Hunt from anywhere outside the USA. Details are below...

WATCH CELEBRITY BEAR HUNT FROM ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD

If you're travelling away from home and are unsure if Netflix is streaming Celebrity Bear Hunt in that country, don't worry. With a good VPN (virtual private network), you can stream the shows you love from anywhere.

NordVPN is the best out there as it offers superb speeds and excellent customer service.

Using a VPN is incredibly simple.

1. Install the VPN of your choice. As we've said, NordVPN is our favorite.

2. Choose the location you wish to connect to in the VPN app. For instance, if you're in the UK and want to view an American service, you'd select US from the list.

3. Sit back and enjoy the show. Head to your platform of choice and stream Celebrity Bear Hunt from anywhere on the planet!

HOW TO WATCH CELEBRITY BEAR HUNT IN THE UK

Celebrity Bear Hunt lands exclusively on Netflix on February 5 in the UK too. All eight episodes are released at once.

Currently Netflix is not offering any free trials to UK viewers. Prices start at £4.99 a month for the standard plan with adverts.

Don't forget: US fans visiting the UK can tap into their usual American streaming services and watch Alone S11 from anywhere with NordVPN. Details above.

Can I watch Celebrity Bear Hunt in Australia?

Celebrity Bear Hunt is streaming on Netflix in Australia from February 5, too. All eight episodes drop at once.

Anybody currently visiting Australia from the US, UK or Canada can use one of the best VPN services to access their usual streaming service. We recommend NordVPN. Find step-by-step instructions above!

CELEBRITY BEAR HUNT BREAKDOWN

Celebrity Bear Hunt 9 contestants

• Mel B, Spice Girls singer
• Boris Becker, German retired tennis player
• Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen, interior designer and TV personality
• Steph McGovern, TV presenter
• Danny Cipriani, former England rugby player
• Shirley Ballas, Strictly Come Dancing head judge
• Big Zuu (real name Zuhair), rapper
• Una Healy, former Saturdays singer
• Joe Thomas, actor and The Inbetweeners star
• Kola Bokinni, actor
• Leomie Anderson, fashion model and TV host
• Lottie Moss, model and sister of Kate Moss

Celebrity Bear Hunt episode guide

E01 Let the Hunt Begin (51 mins)

12 celebrities arrive in the Costa Rican jungle. Their first mission is simply to reach the lodge -- without Bear Grylls getting to them first

E02 Let Down by My Bladder (53 mins)

Four people are still in the Bear Pit, and one is not coming back. As they try to dig, climb and race their way to freedom, Bear if not far behind

E03 Sink or Swim (56 mins)

A new challenge sees four celebs thrown in at the deep end. When one finds himself in over his head, his teammate fights to finish the task on his own

E04 Where Did Being Nice Get Me (54 mins)

As the second celebrity is eliminated, the pressure is rising within the camp. Some find themselves wobbling over the next challenge

E05 Between a Croc and a Bear (56 mins)

A test of teamwork sees half the camp left out in the cold, and one celeb hot under the collar.

E06 Pain is Weakness Leaving Your Body (56 mins)

A dizzying new challenge ends in an injury.

E07 No Smoke Without Fire (55 mins)

Tempers are already flaring between some members in the camp when Bear sets the celebrities a fiery challenge.

E08 Last Celebrity Standing (44 mins)

12 celebrities entered the competition. Now, only five remain. As they try to evade capture one final time, who will be crowned Bear Hunt champion?

Where was Celebrity Bear Hunt filmed?

Although producers have not revealed the exact location, we do know the show was filmed in the jungle in Costa Rica.

The location was chosen for its dense jungle that's teeming with wildlife and the perilous terrain that makes an incredible backdrop for the challenges.

He may have exited the hit neo-Western TV show Yellowstone in 2024, but Hollywood heavyweight Kevin Costner's onscreen affiliation with US National Parks hasn't ended.

Yellowstone to Yosemite is a new three-part docuseries that will air in the US from February 8 on Fox Nation. It is produced by and features Costner as he traces the footsteps of the 1903 Yosemite expedition of then-president Teddy Roosevelt and environmental advocate John Muir.

The Roosevelt-Muir expedition has historical importance for resulting in protection for Yosemite, bolstering the National Park system and leading to the creation of national forests, resulting in the protection of 230 million acres of land.

While exploring the spectacular geology, flora and fauna of the park, Costner tells the tale of the fascinating journey.

In a release, Kevin Costner said: “Once in a while, you come across a story that has that truly special mix of elements; it’s stranger than fiction and happens against all odds. It results in something that legitimately changes the world for the good and, most importantly, it all really happened.

"The story of President Teddy Roosevelt and John Muir’s camping trip through Yosemite is one of those truly special ones."

Yellowstone to Yosemite is the sequel to the documentary released in 2022, Yellowstone: One Fifty. In this docuseries, timed to celebrate the founding of Yellowstone National Park, Costner leads us on a personal tour of the incredible natural landmarks.

I am "walking in the footsteps of the pioneers, following the trail they blazed," he explains as he tries to answer the question: "Does Yellowstone look the same today as it did in these journals 150 years ago?".

Fans were disappointed in 2024 as Costner announced he would no longer continue playing the role of John Dutton in the Paramount Network drama Yellowstone. The series debuted in 2020 and follows the trails and tribulations of the Dutton family who own a Montana ranch, on the edge of Yellowstone National Park.

Make the most of your time in a National Park

• Best binoculars: appreciate wildlife from a safe distance
• Best GPS watches: Navigate confidently around the park
• Best fleece jackets: Keep cozy on backcountry trails

“More people have been in outer space than have been on the summit of K2”. It’s a thought-provoking fact that’s revealed in the intro to Peak Danger, the new season of the BBC’s Extreme podcast.

Why is propelling ourselves above the Earth's atmosphere, 62 miles above sea level, in rockets, less deadly than climbing a 28,000ft mountain with our own two feet?

American historian Natalia Mehlman Petrzela delves deeper into the attraction to and risks of high-altitude mountaineering in the podcast made up of eight episodes. She explores what it takes for climbers to stand at the top of the K2, the Himalayan mountain, which is the second-highest on Earth.

Specifically, she follows the story of newlyweds Cecilie Skog and Rolf Bae who found themselves in the middle of the 2008 tragedy when 11 climbers were killed after an avalanche swept away their ropes.

On K2 on August 1, 2008, Skog and Bae were among a group of 31 climbers who set off for the final day's ascent. Tragically, a serac – a huge block or shelf of ice – fell, killing one climber and sweeping away the ropes they needed to descend. The climbers were left stranded in the death zone – at an altitude where oxygen pressure is too low for humans to survive beyond a short amount of time – as night fell.

The podcast, with contributions from Skog (pictured above), explores their 'addiction' to mountaineering and asks the question, “is it really worth risking death to feel alive?”.

“Why would someone pay to go to a place called the death zone?”

Petrzela discusses the Gilkey Memorial, a rock cairn near base camp that is dedicated to all the climbers who have died on K2. Plaques are attached to rocks, each one inscribed with details about the deceased climber, including when they went missing or were found dead.

It isn’t enough to deter climbers.

She also explores summit fever, the overwhelming compulsion to reach the summit of a mountain, and how that overrode Skog's feelings of doubt when the couple discovered a case of missing equipment.

Using other interviews with survivors, experts, and climbers, Extreme: Peak Danger sheds light on the physical, mental, and emotional toll of these daring climbs, plus the fine line between ambition and survival.

Touching the void

The global mountaineering community is full of legendary people who have risked life to complete what only the few can.

Mountaineer and film director Jimmy Chin nearly died in a huge avalanche in 2002 while attempting to climb and ski Everest's north face.

He returned in 2006 to achieve the challenge with Kit DesLauriers, and Rob DesLauriers, becoming the first Americans to complete the feat.

In 2011 he also survived a class-4 avalanche while skiing in the Grand Teton Range, Wyoming.

Perhaps the most famous of the current crop of climbing greats, daring free solo climber Alex Honnold fell, breaking his neck, pelvic bone and four ribs in 2002 while climbing in Aspen, Colorado. He also suffered a collapsed right lung and kidney and liver damage.

He went on to complete the first-ever free solo ascent of Yosemite's El Capitan in 2017, a feat that was captured by Chin in his Free Solo documentary film, winning an Oscar for Best Documentary in the process.

Tommy Caldwell is known to be one of the world's most resilient big wall climbers, surviving a traumatic kidnapping in 2000 and the loss of his left index finger in an accident in 2001.

In 2015 he completed the first free ascent of El Capitan's Dawn Wall, a feat that took him and climbing partner Kevin Jorgeson 19 gruelling days and nights.

“8,000m of just slowly dying” – what are the dangers of mountaineering?

A voice in Peak Danger describes climbing K2 as “8,000m of just slowly dying”. But what are the actual dangers mountaineering poses?

• Areas of high altitude (above 8,000ft) up the ante for climbers who can suffer from altitude sickness and exposure.
• Avalanches are more common at high altitude due to an abundance of snow and ice, freeze-thaw cycles and high winds.
• Extreme low temperatures that occur at high altitudes can cause conditions such as hypothermia and frostbite.
• Snow structures, such as crevasses and cornices, can also increase your risk of life-threatening falls.
• Extreme weather can cause whiteout conditions, making it difficult to navigate. 

Technical expertise, experience, skill and the right gear are key to summiting as safely as possible.

• The best winter hiking boots: for unbeatable performance in the cold
• The best ice axes: for tackling frozen terrain
• How to choose a climbing harness for protection and comfort
• The best crampons: tested for sure-footed traction on frozen terrain

A UK documentary, Rave On For The Avon, is highlighting the pollution crisis facing the River Avon in the southwest of England and other rivers across the UK.

The film follows a local community’s fight to save their bathing spot in unique ways and showcases positive, creative campaigns by people who cherish their local rivers and see wild swimming as a way of life.

In 2021, the environmental performance of the UK’s water and sewage companies fell to the lowest level on record.

In a densely residential part of the city of Bristol in the southwest of England, a section of the River Avon attracts swimmers year-round.

Wild swimming is recognized for helping people boost mental health and as being a free outdoor activity for local lower-income families. However, the local council prohibits swimming in the river, and it is often polluted with dangerous levels of raw sewage, chemical pollution and farm run-off.

Locals to Conham River Park formed a group, running a citizen-led water testing program. The group is now applying for Designated Bathing Water Status (DBWS) for the river.

Currently there are only three stretches of river in the UK with this status, all of which have been won through local campaigns.

As part of the campaign, one swimmer, @mrs_meg_avon 'married' the River Avon. As part of her @saveouravon campaign she hoped to give it personhood and therefore greater rights.

Creators hope Rave On For The Avon will inspire swimmers across the UK to take action against polluting companies.

Director Charlotte Sawyer set up a Crowdfunder to take the film to cinemas in the UK, which has now completed.

You can see the full list of screenings available here.

More from Advnture.com

• The best changing robes 2025: cocoon yourself post-swim in a protective layer
• The best wild swimming gear: what to wear and what to take
• The best water shoes 2025: fast-draining, quick-drying and ready to take you from the shore to the sea

A much-anticipated new film from snowboarding legend Xavier de le Rue chronicling his latest adventure across Antartica with his teenage daughter in tow is now available to view.

Directed by Jérôme Tanon and produced in collaboration with The North Face, In a Lifetime is 44 minutes of breathtaking scenery, epic lines, climate conversations and family drama.

The film, which you can watch below, follows the family, who recently released a new line of ski gear with The North Face, as they sail for five days across some of the most dangerous waters in the world to reach a line that Xavier skied 12 years ago. Despite saying he'd never do it again, he's back to experience it once more with his brother.

Meanwhile, Xavier's 18-year-old daughter Mila, a freeride prodigy like her father and uncle, comes along for her trial-by-fire initiation into big mountain skiing. We recently sat down with the family to discuss the adventure, and Xavier tells us that when it came to skiing, he had no concerns about Mila's abilities.

“I have a big trust in her and it's funny, I'm not scared when I see her skiing because I know how she reacts and I'm very confident about this," says Xavier about the adventure.

“The cool thing is that on a trip like this she could have gone downhill, but she pulled herself together."

Read the full interview with Xavier and Mila and watch Of A Lifetime for free now on The North Face’s YouTube channel:

• The best ski jackets for men: protection on the slopes
• The best ski backpacks: for adventures on and off-piste
• The best ski goggles: unbeatable protection for your eyes

Unimaginably steep lines where one caught edge will send you hurtling into the frigid ocean. Days of sailing through rough waters as pods of orcas circle nearby. Some pretty hands-off parenting. All this and more await you in the new adventure film, In a Lifetime, which chronicles a five-week expedition to Antarctica by snowboarder Xavier de le Rue, his younger brother Victor and his teenage daughter Mila.

Directed by Jérôme Tanon and produced in collaboration with The North Face, in just 44 minutes this diary-style documentary covers epic mountaineering in the more remote place on earth, previously untouched lines, climate change and family dynamics, all set against the breathtaking backdrop of Antarctica.

It makes it a little difficult to know where to start when I sit down with Xavier and Mila to discuss the project with them. So I go with the obvious – how does it feel to you take your 18-year-old daughter into such a remote and challenging environment?

“It’s not like just going on holiday with your daughter. There's an objective, so it's a completely different mindset,” explains Xavier.

The weeks and months before the expedition were filled with worries about what he calls the “nightmare scenarios” – boats sinking during the five-day traverse across the choppy Drake Passage, a stretch of water between Chile and Antarctica that’s considered one of the most treacherous voyages in the world. But when it came to Mila’s initiation into big mountain free riding on steep couloirs and exposed faces that saw the 18-year-old breaking down in tears as snow ominously slides away under her skis?

“I always felt pretty relaxed,” says Xavier.

“I have a big trust in her and it's funny, I'm not scared when I see her skiing because I know how she reacts and I'm very confident about this.”

The famed big mountain snowboarder is a three-time champion of the Freeride World Tour, as is Vincent. Mila already looks set to follow in their footsteps, but this expedition saw her using gear like crampons and an ice axe for the first time. Learning to use technical equipment for the first time in such a high-stakes scenario and there’s no mountain rescue to come and bail you out would be a challenge for anyone, much less a teenager.

“The cool thing is that on a trip like this she could have gone downhill, but she pulled herself together,” says Xavier.

For him, the trip was all about overcoming fear now he’s reached an age where he finds his friends are taking fewer and fewer risks.

Put three family members together for five weeks on any boat and you’d expect a little family drama – “she’s a bit defiant with me” says Xavier of their relationship now Mila's reached her teenage years – but the trio manages to get on remarkably well despite danger, seasickness and hangovers.

“You don't have time to get on each other's nerves because you always have targets, the boat is always moving so you always have new areas with new objectives with new things,” says Xavier, who also describes the crossing as “five days of hell.”

Despite the film’s name, Xavier previously skied the epic line known as The Captain in Antarctica 12 years ago, but this time he wanted share it with his brother – he says they’ve lived parallel lives due to their 10-year age gap. The result is no ordinary ski film, seeing the family hike through a penguin colony to begin one ascent and sail through massive icebergs in search of new lines.

“It feels like a dream, being there,” says Mila, who turned 18 during the expedition.

It’s no surprise that the film also comments on climate change – Xavier is the host of the Sustainability Dialogues podcast and has long been a mouthpiece for the climate crisis. The trio sails to Vernadsky, a Ukrainian research base where marine and climate scientists reveal that even far from human intervention, seawater has warmed 4°C in the last 80 years.

They also used the trip to properly test out their new line of technical ski and snowboarding gear – designed from recycled materials that can be turned back into new raw materials at the end of their life cycle. The North Face A-68a collection has been five years in the making.

“The idea was, for once, to embrace one of those collaborations with my sponsors to being able to make something which actually mattered, which was not just a marketing ploy,” says Xavier, who admits frustration that one of the hardest parts of being a spokesperson for climate change is the innate conflict involved with manufacturing and travel.

When I ask for his advice on practicing sustainability in skiing and in life, his suggestion is “just to get better.”

“Analyze yourself and try to get interested and try to talk about it with your friends and see what they do and see what you can do. If you fly, try to fly a bit less, if you eat meat, try to eat a bit less. But who am I to say that? Because I am consuming like everyone else.”

To put it mildly, pieces from the collection like the A68-a DryVent Mono Shell Jacket, covered in red dots, are quite outlandish – Xavier tells me they were inspired by expedition gear from 100 years ago – but any doubts of their performance dissolve when we see the family scaling ice walls and falling into the sea then being hauled out, laughing.

Of A Lifetime is streaming now on The North Face’s YouTube channel and is one to watch over the holidays for anyone who loves nature, winter sports and adventure.

• The best ski jackets for men: protection on the slopes
• The best ski backpacks: for adventures on and off-piste
• The best ski goggles: unbeatable protection for your eyes

A trailer for the upcoming adaptation of the book The Salt Path has hit the internet, showing Gillian Anderson taking on the role of Raynor Winn as she tackles a 630-mile long-distance hiking path with her terminally ill husband.

Based on the emotional memoir by Winn, The Salt Path tells the tale of a couple who have hit rock bottom. After losing everything, Winn's husband Moth – played in the film by Jason Isaacs – is diagnosed with an incurable condition.

Newly homeless, the middle-aged couple decide to pack up their tent and walk the rugged South West Coast Path, which follows England's Devonshire and Cornwall Coasts from Minehead to Poole.

Winn's 2018 recounting of the journey made our list of the best hiking books, and now we're looking forward to seeing it played out on the big screen based on the trailer, which you can watch below.

The film has already been screened at several festivals including the Toronto Film Festival, and the trailer suggests that it remains close to the book. It was filmed on and around the hiking trail, showcasing the rugged beauty of the UK's southwest coast.

The film is the directorial debut from theater director Marianne Elliott, who has directed several National Theatre Live productions as well as the recent television series of Alan Bennett’s Talking Heads.

Elliot tells Deadline that she was drawn to Winn's strength and courage throughout such a difficult time.

"The love of her life was going to die. Everything that she knew of herself as a woman had gone, but she does something really amazing."

The Salt Path is due to hit screens on April 25, 2025 which gives plenty of time to read the book first.

• Best hiking boots: hit the trails

Watching television has got a load more expensive in recent years. While streaming started out as a cheaper alternative to cable and satellite subscriptions, price increases and the epic quantity of platforms available mean it’s easy to part with a lot of cash keeping up with your favorite TV shows and movies.

That’s why Hulu’s Black Friday deals are worth getting excited about. Right now US residents can get a whole year of Hulu and Disney+ (with ads) for just $2.99 per month – that’s a massive 72% saving on the usual $10.99 per month.

A subscription to Disney+ gives you access to a whole world of exciting National Geographic content, including The Devil’s Climb. In the much-talked about documentary film, top climbers Alex Honnold (star of Free Solo, also available on Disney+) and Tommy Caldwell mount a spectacular expedition to cycle, sail and climb their way to the top of the 9,000-foot Devil’s Thumb in Alaska. Back in October the duo told us how they trained for their adventure.

Hulu is also a great place to experience the great outdoors on screen. It’s the place to watch 10 seasons of hit reality show Alone, in which brave contestants have to survive in the wilderness (yes, totally alone) for as long as they can.

And if you need another excuse to snap up this Hulu Black Friday deal, both streaming platforms are also home to hours and hours and hours of top TV and movies, from Marvel, Star Wars and The Simpsons on Disney+ to The Bear, Only Murders in the Building and Shōgun on Hulu.

If you just want to watch Hulu content, you can save a whopping 90% on a subscription to the Hulu (with ads) option – that’s 99¢ per month instead of the usual $9.99 per month.

Both Hulu Black Friday deals are available in the United States until Monday, December 2. At the end of the initial 12-month period your subscription will auto-renew at the standard monthly rate.

For most of us who love the outdoors, Alex Honnold and Tommy Caldwell need no introduction. For the rest of you, they’re two of the greatest rock climbers of all time and between them are responsible for two of the best climbing films ever made: Free Solo and Dawn Wall.

So when I heard that the pair – who are also close friends – were teaming up for a joint expedition to climb another as-yet-unconquered face and make a film about it, I figured I already knew what it would be. Two climbing greats doing something that’s never been done, hopefully a moment of extreme peril where everything hangs in the balance, and perhaps a glimpse into life in the van. But the Devil’s Climb is something a bit different.

“You don’t even have to be interested in climbing, really, to appreciate this film because this is the story of two partners seeking out a big adventure and having an experience together,” Honnold tells me.

“The climbing is impressive and certainly really, really scenic, but it’s not really a climbing film, I don't think. It’s the kind of thing I could imagine my grandmother watching and really enjoying it.”

To be fair, neither of his grandmothers is with us anymore, but I get his point – there’s more to this film than nail-biting high drama, despite the sinister backdrop and the high stakes, and yet it’s subtler than their previous film projects.

“It highlights the things that we've always loved about climbing"

Directed by fellow climber Renan Ozturk, of Meru fame, the Devil’s Thumb sees the duo complete the first-ever single-day traverse of all five peaks of Alaska’s Devil’s Thumb massif. That includes the biggest alpine face in North America, which until last year had never been climbed. In fact, only a few had attempted it – including Jon Krakauer in 1977 as described in his book Eiger Dreams – and a lot of them died trying.

On paper, the Devil’s Climb hits all the usual notes. The group of striking peaks on the western edge of the Stikine Icecap provides an appropriately sensational backdrop to the action and more than enough challenge for the two climbers – but you won’t even see them get on belay until 50 minutes into the 75-minute documentary.

“It highlights the things that we've always loved about climbing, which climbers almost take for granted a little bit, so they'll be slightly less struck by the film,” says Caldwell, who thinks non-climbers will probably enjoy the film even more than climbers.

“If you're not a climber at all, you're gonna see the friendship, you’re gonna see the beauty, you’re gonna see the adventure.”

"Biking on the highway was probably the most dangerous thing we did"

If you’re hoping for knife-edge thrills akin to Honnold pulling off the crux move on a 3,000-foot-tall sheer rock wall without protective gear or Caldwell getting taken hostage in Kyrgyzstan, you’ll need to adjust your expectations a bit before you sit down to watch this film, because the two climbers now agree that the most dangerous part of this expedition was the approach.

“In a lot of ways this expedition was relatively safe. Biking on the highway the whole way was probably the scariest thing and the most dangerous thing we did,” says Honnold.

From Caldwell’s home in Colorado, it’s 2,600 miles to the Devil’s Thumb, and he envisioned the expedition as a conservation project, so he proposed making the already difficult expedition harder by cycling there on a pair of Specialized gravel bikes. That turned out to entail 50 days of pedalling, sailing and gruelling hiking across the West, which, depending on who you ask, was great training or a “total waste” of time and energy.

“For me, it was great because my climbing ability was so low after being injured for so long,” says Caldwell, who spent the last couple of years rehabbing a torn (and repeatedly re-ruptured) Achilles tendon. Just a year ago, he reported that he'd been unable to send the Heart Route in Yosemite with Honnold, but over the course of the approach, he started to feel like his old self again.

“As we were bike riding, I just got stronger and felt more robust, but my climbing ability had so far to go up at the point.”

“I didn’t recover the whole time"

Meanwhile, Honnold, who was coming off several years of climbing at the highest level, says he found the bike ride “depressing.”

“I kind of thought that we were going to be going through interior BC, like untravelled wilderness and the reality is that it’s all logged, there are trucks non-stop. It’s like heavy human impact.”

In retrospect, Caldwell admits that they didn’t plan the bike ride all that well, but that 2,600-mile bike ride shared between one friend who was severely out of shape and another at their physical peak turned out to be a great equalizer.

“I didn’t recover the whole time. I got worse and worse literally the whole trip, which was crazy because Tommy was doing great and he was thriving,” says Honnold.

By the end of the expedition, the pair just about met each other in the middle in terms of fitness and climbing ability and when they finally begin their 24-hour push, it’s all, well, pretty smooth.

"He just needs to pull hard on small holds all the time to feel right in the world"

There are no angst-ridden monologues about what happens if they fall and die during the climb like we were exposed to in Free Solo, even though touching scenes with family at the beginning remind us of what would be at stake if that were to happen. But for one quickly corrected detour and some windy conditions, there’s no exceptional circumstances that increase the risk level.

Caldwell leads the majority of the climbing – something Honnold says he was pretty happy about, because it meant he could stay in his “more comfortable” approach shoes – and at the last summit, the pair even have time to soak up the views and chat.

If all of this is sounding a little dull, trust me, it’s a pleasure to watch. Instead of wondering if the men are going to meet a grisly end, you can enjoy the quirky personalities of two climbers (mostly) in their element, and get an often-entertaining glimpse into the nature of their relationship, which is painted here by Ozturk as a Grumpy vs Happy dynamic.

We see Honnold face down with seasickness while Caldwell merrily takes the helm in choppy waters. Then there’s Caldwell cycling off up the trail after Honnold is crowded by fans who apparently have no idea they’re in the midst of not just one but two heroes. And Honnold looking unimpressed or doing pull-ups on a boat crossing while Caldwell enthusiastically watches whales jumping.

“I’m realizing he just needs to pull hard on small holds all the time to feel right in the world,” quips Caldwell.

“There’s incredible joy in the midst of adversity "

You do start to wonder if the pair is really cut out to be climbing partners, where trust and communication are as important as fitness and skill. But when I probe them on this, they insist that despite their opposing exteriors, they’re far more similar than they are different.

“I think that’s part of the reason that our climbing partnership has been so good over the years,” says Honnold, who describes them as “pretty interchangeable” on the wall.

“In general, we’re more similar to each other than any other climbers we could climb with.”

Both men likely have many more years of climbing in them and it’s even possible they’ll have more first ascents worth of documentation. But right now, they also have nothing left to prove. They’ve got four young children at home between the two of them. They’ve earned the right to just go and have a really fun expedition without raising anyone’s cortisol levels, and maybe all that’s left to tell is the story of their friendship.

“There’s incredible joy in the midst of adversity and Alex brings that out in a way that nobody else I’ve climbed with does," says Caldwell.

"We could be suffering and laughing at the same time, and that brings the magic."

The Devil's Climb premieres October 17 at 9 p.m. eastern on National Geographic and streams the next day on Disney+ and Hulu.

• The best climbing shoes 2024: get a grip both indoors and out
• The best women’s climbing shoes 2024: for indoor climbing sessions, valley cragging and all-day mountain adventures

There’s a documentary film that crept onto various streaming services earlier this month with very little fanfare, but we think it’ll be right up your street. After all, it features a trek up the entire Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), 2,650 miles through the USA, from the Mexican border to the Canadian border.

It’s called Black Outside and it chronicles the personal and literal journey of Gary Wilkerson, a black man from the deep south who’s never been backpacking before. He believes that his reticence to challenge himself in the great outdoors has its roots in the racism that’s part of our cultural background – and he doesn’t believe he’s alone in that feeling.

So to challenge himself and racial stereotypes (“black men don’t hike!”) he decided during lockdown to tackle the entire PCT with his friend Mary Jeanes, and film the results.

See the trailer below. Warning: it contains images of a man very happy he’s done a poo.

Talking to Gear Junkie, Wilkerson said the experience changed his life:

“I feel like I was supposed to do this. It grew me up in a way. It kind of kicked some of the kid dust off of me that was still kind of there.”

And that’s despite the fact that severe depression set in at one point.

So, a great personal story and some fantastic footage of the PCT that gives you a real insight into what it’s like to tackle the legendary trail.

Black Outside is available to buy or rent on iTunes, YouTube, Prime Video, Google Play and other on demand platforms.

• The best hiking shirts 2026: choose one of these great fitting active tops with bags of technical clout
• The best sunglasses 2026: for hiking throughout the year

4am (MDT) on August 17 was a very unusual time for a film premier. But there was a very specific reason that professional skier Drew Petersen’s raw and powerful documentary about running and mental health, Feel It All, was unleashed onto YouTube at that exact time.

Because it coincided with the start of Colorado’s Leadville Trail 100 Run, aka, the “Race Across the Sky”, one the world’s most legendary ultra marathons, which was first held in 1983. It’s a gruelling 100 mile (161km) course that includes skiing and running up and down several 14,000-foot (4,267m) peaks. This year Petersen was among the runners.

Feel It All chronicles Petersen’s journey from the depths of deep depression to finding purpose, strength and resilience by setting a goal to run the Leadville Trail 100 ultramarathon. It tells an immersive story of how within the struggle of living with mental illness lies an opportunity to access an infinite, inexhaustible well of strength to achieve our limitless potential. “The film aims to ultimately create powerful cultural change around mental health awareness and suicide prevention,” says the official website.

So yeah, there’s some majestic and stirring skiing and running footage too.

It’s not Petersen’s first foray into this area. His 2022 release, Ups and Downs, was a ski film that dealt with PTSD, bipolar disorder, brain injury rehabilitation and suicide. Petersen hopes that Feel It All will expand the message further.

“Ups and Downs was, in its core, a ski movie. I don't know if I want to use the word 'just’, but it was just a ski film,” Petersen told the website POWDER. “And Feel It All takes that, brings in running, brings in a whole parallel community, broadens it to the outdoor community.”

• If you are in crisis, please call, text or chat with the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988, or contact the Crisis Text Line by texting TALK to 741741. (US only)
• When life is difficult, Samaritans are here – day or night, 365 days a year. You can call them for free on 116 123, email them at jo@samaritans.org, or visit www.samaritans.org to find your nearest branch. (UK only)
• Lifeline is available on 13 11 14 or visit lifeline.org.au. (Australia only)

• The best running poles 2026: for ultra distance training, epic races, and fastpacking adventures
• The best trail running sunglasses 2026: clarity and protection

Passengers are taking a unique meditative journey along the UK’s Leeds & Liverpool Canal in a specially designed kayak (that’s actually a sculpture) called Ghost. It’s a project that’s being filmed for a documentary highlighting the historic waterway’s restorative powers.

The Super Slow Way, an arts program based in East Lancashire, has teamed up with artist Adam Chodzko, who sculpted Ghost back in 2010. Adam first unveiled Ghost for the Whitstable Biennale in 2010, and since then the kayak has taken hundreds of passengers on similar journeys around the UK.

For this project (more information here), Chodzko paddles one passenger at a time along the canal in Clayton-le-Moors, filming them on their journey using a special camera rig.

The passenger lies low and flat within a cockpit towards the bows. “Like a body in a coffin with their head slightly raised, traveling along the interface between water and sky,” says Chodzko, which may sound a little macabre (and look a little bit like Waterhouse’s “Lady of Shalott” in the photos) but is designed to be a meditative, reflective experience.

As Chodzko explains, “The dome in the deck of the kayak separates them physically and visually from the paddler at the back. The paddler and passenger experience the journey in silence, in order to allow space for perception. A camera, mounted on Ghost‘s deck, records each unique voyage, the passenger’s point of view, structured as a memory or dream.”

The resulting footage from this latest project will be compiled into a short film, which will receive its premiere in Hyndburn in Lancashire later this year.

As well as the passengers, for this project Ghost is also carrying a special cargo – shuttles from local mills, in homage to the canal’s original purpose of ferrying raw cotton and finished fabric in its heyday. Chodzko also believes the shape of shuttles reflects that shape of the kayak.

The project certainly wasn’t short on volunteers; all the places on both batches of journeys – from August 6 to 11, and then from August 30 to September 4 – were quickly filled.

• The best women’s waterproof jackets 2026: your winter-ready hardshell awaits
• The best water shoes 2026: fast-draining, quick-drying and ready to take you from the shore to the sea

Once described by Runner’s World as “the best ultra runner you’ve never heard of” China’s Yao Miao was a bit of a sensation on the ultra scene at the end of the last decade. Then she vanished.

In 2018 she set a new women’s course record winning the Hong Kong 100k, then placed second at the Lavaredo Ultra Trail and won the UTMB CCC (Ultra Trail du Mont Blanc Courmayeur – Champex – Chamonix). Not bad for a 23-year-old who’d never raced outside of her home country before.

Then it starting going wrong, with various DNFs blighting her outings. In frustration, Yao Miao gave up on ultras and concentrated on road marathons. But by last year, the hunger for the trails had returned, and Wa/ondering details her return to ultra running, including 2023’s Sierre-Zinal and UTMB OCC. And it tries to get inside the mental processes fuelling that urge to return to, along with some stunning footage.

Director Kyle Oberman explains: “Yao Miao’s documentary of her 2023 journey to return to European trails and to find herself is finally out with English subtitles on my YouTube. Wa/ondering is a play on words, a combination of the spirit of wonder that embodies @yaomiao1’s mindset as she wanders (often running, that is) on both literal and figurative trails and mountains.

“I hope this film gives the watcher a better understanding of who Yao Miao is, or, was in that moment of time, and where she is going in the future. Dreaming of a day where all Chinese athletes speak English and all non-Chinese athletes speak Mandarin 😬 But for now, hopefully this translation will do.”

Yao Miao was due to run in the Sierre-Zinal in Switzerland this weekend (August 10) but sadly she’s had to pull out because of visa problems. She assures her fans that she’s fit and well so it seems like the recovery is continuing well. 

• The best road to trail running shoes 2026: footwear for all terrains
• The best trail running shorts 2026: for taking on technical terrain

What makes someone want to throw themselves off a cliff? That’s a question that the directors of FLY, a new National Geographic documentary about BASE jumping, spent seven years exploring while making the film.

Directors Shaul Schwarz and Christina Clusiau say their doc asks, “Are you living the life that you want to live? Are you really living with intention?” It also contains some amazing imagery of people in wingsuits taking flight or plunging off cliff with only a rapidly deployed parachute to break their fall.

FLY is now ready for release, including some limited screenings in IMAX cinemas, and the breathtaking trailer has just been released.

The acronym BASE comes from the four fixed objects the jumpers most often jump from: Buildings, Antennas, Spans (aka, bridges) and Earth (aka, rock formations).

The documentary follows three couples from the world of BASE jumping: Jimmy and Marta, affectionately known as the “Mom and Pop” of BASE jumping; wingsuit pilot Scotty and his partner, Julia; and Amber and Espen, whose bond is tested by triumph and tragedy.

Schwarz and Clusiau began working on FLY following the death of well-known climber Dean Potter, who lost his life while BASE jumping at Yosemite National Park.

While it's not clear from the trailer whether the jumps in the film were illegal, many popular sites for BASE jumping expressly forbid it.

A BASE jumper died last week, when his parachute failed to save him while attempting an illegal BASE jump in the Grand Canyon.

“We were intrigued by these people who wanted to jump off cliffs with parachutes and wondered about their motivations,” says Schwarz. “We had this idea that maybe [BASE jumpers] are part of this crazy, reckless death cult or are empty adrenaline seekers, but we quickly found out how amazing they were and how full of life they were. That’s when we started filming.

“Our films, much like our approach, seek to raise questions rather than provide answers. Who are these individuals, and what drives them to risk their lives for a passion, knowing it could possibly kill them? Standing on the edge of a cliff and leaping into the void requires a willingness to sacrifice everything – be it the love of your life or the life you love.”

The film will get a limited IMAX release in over 300 theaters on September 2 and 3, 2024 in the US. It will then make its broadcast debut on September 24, 2024, on the National Geographic Channel on Hulu and Disney+ (check local listings for screening outside the US).

• The best first aid kits 2026: be prepared for accidents and emergencies
• The best hiking gloves 2026: keep your hands toasty on mountain hikes

This guide explains how to watch Olympics 2024 sport climbing live streams on the final day of the competition. There are free viewing options in Australia, Canada and the UK, and we also explain how you can use a VPN to watch your usual coverage if you're away from home today.

The Paris 2024 Olympics sport climbing events take place at Le Bourget, a purpose-built climbing facility on the outskirts of Paris. There are two separate events – speed climbing, and bouldering and lead climbing combined – for both men and women.

The medals in the women's boulder and lead competition will be decided today. Who will follow in the footsteps – and handholds – of British teenager Toby Roberts, who won the men's competition yesterday?

Read on how to find out how to watch Olympics sport climbing live streams wherever you are in the world – you'll find today's schedule below. Our guide to rock climbing terms will help you keep up with any unfamiliar jargon in the commentary, and if you want to give this exciting sport a try for yourself, you can also read about getting started in climbing. 

Olympics sport climbing: Saturday schedule

All times PT / ET / BST / AEST

• 1.15am / 6.15am / 9.15am / 6.15pm Women's boulder and lead, final boulder
• 3.35am / 6.35am / 11.35am / 8.35pm Women's boulder and lead, final lead MEDAL

Watch Olympics sport climbing for free in Australia

When it comes to watching the Olympics, Aussies have it better than pretty much everyone. That's because Down Under, Channel 9 and its 9Now streaming service host the most comprehensive free-to-air Paris 2024 coverage anywhere in the world. That means that almost every session from the Games is available live via Channel 9's various platforms.

Your viewing options aren't limited, either, because subscription service Stan is also covering Paris 2024 ad-free, live and in 4K resolution. You can add Stan Sport to your Stan subscription for $15 per month. (Stan is also home to numerous other sports, including Champions League football and rugby union.)

Don't worry if you're adventuring overseas during the Olympics. Fans of steep ascents can watch an Olympics sport climbing live stream as they would back home. All you need is a quality VPN, such as NordVPN, to watch your usual free stream when overseas. Find out more below.

Use a VPN to watch Olympics sport climbing from anywhere

If you’re traveling abroad during the Olympics, geo-blocking restrictions mean you probably won't be able to watch your usual TV service as you would in your front room.

That doesn't mean you have to miss out, however. All you need to do to watch as if you were back home is get yourself a VPN (Virtual Private Network) – assuming it complies with your broadcaster’s T&Cs, of course.  A VPN creates a private connection between your device and the internet, meaning the service can’t work out where you are. As an added bonus, the info going back and forth is also entirely encrypted.

In a competitive field, the knowledgeable people at TechRadar put NordVPN at the top of the podium. 

Watch Olympics sport climbing for free in Canada

There's loads of free Olympics coverage available on CBC and the CBC Gem streaming service. And if you have an issue with watching commercials, you can ditch the adds by paying $5.99 per month for CBC's Premium service. (You can take advantage of a seven-day free trial before you buy.)

Subscription services Sportsnet and TSN are also showing Olympics coverage.

Olympics 2024 sport climbing live streams in the UK

The BBC has long been synonymous with the Olympics, and the UK's national broadcaster is delivering loads of free-to-air Olympics action throughout the duration of the Games. Terrestrial channels, the Red Button and the BBC iPlayer streaming service will all be part of the Beeb's offering, but remember that you will need a valid TV Licence to tune in.

But you won't be able to watch every moment of the games in the company of the BBC, as the broadcaster only has rights to air two live streams at any time. In other words, if the BBC overlords aren't pointing their cameras at the climbing walls then you'll have to look elsewhere.

If you want to make sure you get to watch an Olympics 2024 sport climbing live stream, the most comprehensive service is provided by subscription services Eurosport and Discovery Plus. They're offering a whopping 3,800 hours of live coverage across 55 streams.

A Discovery Plus Standard plan would usually set you back £6.99 a month but if you subscribe before August 11, the fee is reduced to £3.99 a month – and new subscribers will be able to take advantage of that discounted rate until the end of 2024.

Olympics 2024 sport climbing live streams in the US

NBCUniversal has a massive Olympics spread for US viewers, with coverage spread across broadcast and cable channels (including NBC, CNBC, the USA Network and the Golf Channel), and the Peacock streaming service.

A Peacock Premium subscription costs $7.99 per month or $79.99 per year. If you want to go ad-free, Peacock Premium Plus will cost you $13.99 per month or $139.99 per year. 

Much of the competition will only be available digitally (in other words, you'll need Peacock) but you'll also be able to watch Olympics sport climbing live streams on USA Network and E!. 

Don't have cable? It doesn't have to be a problem. Sling is a smart TV service that allows viewers based in the US to watch cable channels on their TV, laptop or tablet without actually having to subscribe to an annual cable TV package. USA Network and E! are available on Sling with the Sling Blue package, which costs $40 per month ($20 for the first month).

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

In 2023, ultra runner Courtney Dauwalter became the first person to win the Western States, Hardrock 100 and UTMB in the same year. Now, you can follow every step she took in her trail running shoes in a brand new documentary from Salomon. 

The 15-minute film titled A Team Sport chronicles Dauwalter's historic feat through the mountains of California, Colorado and the Alps.

"It was a crazy summer for sure," says Dauwalter of her astonishing victory at three of the world's hardest hundred milers. The summer saw her setting a new course record at the Hardrock in her home state of Colorado a mere three weeks after pulling off the same achievement at Western States. 

"Almost immediately I felt zapped. Every minute was like the slow tick of the clock," reveals the Colorado-based runner, who trains in the high altitude zone around Leadville where she lives.

After finishing the race in 26:14:12, Dauwalter says she sat on the couch for a while, ate a lot of burgers and ice cream, then went back out on the trail "just a little shake out jog."

When she returned from that jog, she signed up for the UTMB, and in August, she won. She didn't set a course record at that race, but she already holds it from her 2021 effort around Mont Blanc.

Many elite runners are bolstered by the support of trainers, private chefs and nutritionists, but Dauwalter is best-known for taking a more relatable approach entailing burritos, baggy trail running shorts and beer.

"I don't have a coach, I don't have a training plan, it's entirely a team effort."

She does, however, have her husband, engineer Kevin Schmidt, who it's clear from the film plays a major role in supporting her every punishing step of the way, no matter how difficult that may be.

"It's important for me to separate being crew versus being a husband, because as a husband I'd probably want her to not do some of the things she does," muses Schmidt.

But what he provides in terms of logistics and support seems to be exactly what Dauwalter needs.

"The calm atmosphere full of positivity is perfect," she says of Schmidt's presence and attitude. 

The documentary showcases Dauwalter's inspiring approach to ultra running, from the time she spends in the pain cave to brushing her teeth mid-way through the UTMB ("it just gives you the feeling of being a human for a minute."). Even those who think they don't care about ultra running can't help but get caught up in this unprecedented feat and will be ready to cheer Dauwalter on this week at the Hardrock 100.

A Team Sport by Salomon is available to watch now at TV Courtney, with an official debut tonight on YouTube at 8 p.m. central time.

• The best running poles 2024: for ultra distance training, epic races, and fastpacking adventures

Her Ultra is a new film documentary that will be premiering online this month (streaming details are yet to be confirmed) that captures the spirit of adventure and determination as eight novice female ultra runners take on the gruelling 250km RacingThePlanet Lapland ultra race above the Arctic Circle in 2022. And here’s the trailer to get you in the mood…

This feature-length documentary, produced and directed by award-winning filmmaker and running enthusiast Kristin Tegtmeier Higgins.

With only eight months of virtual training beforehand as part of women's ultra-running coach Hannah Walsh’s Project: Breaking 250 program, all the runners – aged from 26 to 67 – met for the first time in person at the start of the race.

The film focuses on these women as they run, sleep, eat, repeat across the stunningly beautiful landscape, increasingly shifting the dial on their own self-confidence as they go.

Producer and director Kristin Tegtmeier Higgins, says: “RacingThePlanet has been in existence for 20 years and as a trail runner, I had been looking at their website and reading about these incredible races for years, never having the courage to actually do one. So, I started talking with the founder of RacingThePlanet, Mary Gadams about doing a film and we very quickly decided on talking to Hannah Walsh, about following her inaugural group of normal, everyday women, who are all inexperienced runners, doing their first 250k race across Lapland. 

“I also chose that race because it is gorgeous in Finland and I knew that the setting would be visually amazing as well.”

Hannah Walsh adds, "I started Project: Breaking 250 because I wanted to help more women disconnect from their everyday routines and be a part of something greater than themselves. I get huge joy from helping these women see past their limitations. Coaching, for me, is about creating a space for women to come together to find a sense of belonging, community, and the realisation that you are not on this journey alone.”

• The best running poles 2024: for ultra distance training, epic races, and fastpacking adventures

Hoka shoes were born in the French Alps, and the superhot running shoes brand returns to its origins for a spectacular new promo film, “Fly Human Fly: Bird’s Eye”.

The ad features some amazing aerial footage of a peregrine falcon (we think – we’re not bird of prey experts) soaring alongside road and trail runners as they tackle some challenging looking trails before moving onto some more amenable looking roads.

“Together, they embark on an epic journey, descending from the mountain top to the roads below, capturing the spirit and determination of every runner,” the company says in an accompanying statement. “This story of joyful flight is a testament to the power of community and movement – we fly higher, run faster, and go further – together.”

This latest fall 2024 campaign was created in partnership with its creative agency of record, Anomaly, and is part of Hoka’s “Fly Human Fly” ad franchise that launched in 2022.

And we reckon it’s a massive improvement on last year’s attempt, which had the runners themselves literally taking flight and turning into a starling-like murmuration. It  was all a bit surreal and felt like a combination of René Magritte and a ’90s Pet Shop Boys pop video…

Hoka One One (to give them their full name) was founded in 2009 in Annecy, France, but moved to a base in Richmond, California before being acquired by Deckers Brands in 2013.

This campaign comes as Hoka continues to expand its store footprint, with new major shops opening in New York and Paris in the past couple of months. The brand certainly appears to have been a smart purchase for Deckers, who announced record profits earlier this year, with sales up nearly 28% year on year.

The company says that it expects Hoka’s net sales to increase 20 percent in the next financial year. You could say sales are flying.

• The best running tops 2024: for training and races on all terrains

Perhaps you saw that headline circulating last week about a grizzly bear chasing a moose through a deserted Montana campground. If you did, you almost certainly wanted to know more. Whether it’s a wildlife on wildlife story like that one or a man surviving a mauling by a grizzly bear when it accidentally bites his can of pepper spray, there’s no doubt about it – we can’t get enough of grizzly bears. Or black bears for that matter. And bear biologist Wes Larson has a theory as to why.

“It taps into something that is deep within all of us,” muses Larson. 

“For a long time in human evolution, this was our main threat. We were prey for a lot of different things for tens of thousands of years. So it's this primal fear that almost everyone has. Maybe you don't even realize that you have it. But it's down within our psyche.”

My own interest in that video clip took me down a rabbit hole to Larson’s Instagram page, where I was faced with a photo of the biologist coming face-to-face with a black bear after crawling 80 feet down a den to conduct field observations – by no means his only closeup with a bear, but certainly his most memorable. 

“That was a really a really scary night,” he recalls. “It was a night that I really had to suppress a lot of innate fears and things telling me this is not something you should be doing.”

Despite those innate fears, Larson has spent the best part of 20 years studying bears – grizzly, black, polar and sloth – and launched his own wildlife podcast Tooth and Claw to dive deeper into animal behavior. He recently agreed to speak with me on why we’re so fascinated by animal attack stories, and how learning about them can help us stay safer in wildlife country.

Growing up in bear country

Larson grew up in Montana where he says the constant presence of both black and grizzly bears when he was exploring the state’s trail system in his hiking boots gave him an “intoxicating feeling” for him in his childhood. 

“They were always in the back of your mind and for me, especially as a kid, that made that experience so much more adventurous.”

He initially earned a degree in biology with a mind to pursuing medicine but when it came time to start shadowing doctors, he realized that a life spent indoors with no work-life balance wasn’t for him. Returning to his lifelong love of wildlife, he began to research professors who might take him under their wind. That’s how he discovered Dr Tom Smith who was conducting research on polar bears out of Utah. 

With no wildlife research experience, Smith told Larson he didn’t have a space for him on the program, but the two started meeting weekly to chat about their mutual interest in bears. After about a year, Larson was hired to perform administrative tasks. That landed him a role as a tech on the polar bear project before Smith finally took him on as a graduate student.

Larson spent seven years researching polar bears, several working on sloth bears in India and another five or six on a black bear project in Utah. Most recently, he worked as a bear management specialist for Yellowstone National Park, where grizzlies and black bears co-exist.

“During those years, my daily life could look like anything from going out and hazing a grizzly bear to pushing it off of a kill that was too close to the road to installing bear-proof containers in campsites.”

Tooth and claw

When research ground to a halt during the pandemic, Larson knew he had to find a way to put his experience to good use. He had been considering the possibility of a wildlife podcast for a while and along with his younger brother Jeff and their mutual best friend Mike Smith, he launched Tooth and Claw: True Tales of Animal Attacks in September 2020. 

“The general consensus was, if you tell people about attacks then you're making people scared of wildlife and I thought that we could do it in a way where you get to hear the story,” explains Larson.

Their first story was that of Tatiana the tiger who leapt from her enclosure at the San Francisco Zoo and attacked three visitors. In the nearly four years and hundreds of episodes since, Tooth and Claw has dug into attacks on humans by pandas, pythons, sharks, alligators, mountain lions and of course, grizzly bears.

“A lot of people want the gore, and they want the crazy story and they don't necessarily care quite as much about the science, but we kind of trick them by pulling them in with these these stories that are fascinating.”

Though Larson uses available literature to research the subjects of the show, he also relies on his own field work, and sometimes even finds himself venturing into attack sites, at least when they take place in his own backyard. That’s what wound him up at Soda Butte Campground in Montana a couple of weeks ago, the scene of the 2010 grizzly bear mauling that killed one, when that moose came galloping out of the woods with a grizzly in hot pursuit.

“Information is empowering”

When I listen to the Soda Butte Campground (because, after all, interest in bear attacks is embedded deep in my psyche,) I’m expecting all sensationalism and gore, but I’m pleasantly surprised to discover how much science there is.

Larson explains why mama grizzlies avoid areas where their cubs might meet male bears (they’ll eat them) and how habituation occurs, leading bears to lose their fear of humans. It’s these details that Larson says inspired him to start the podcast, because as he says, in most situations there are often measures victims could have taken to prevent the attack.

“I think when people gain that kind of information, it really empowers them. Then if you see a bear, you can actually enjoy that interaction rather than being terrified the entire time.”

Whether they come for the blood or the biology lesson, it’s working. The podcast enjoys millions of downloads each year and both of Larson’s co-hosts have quit their jobs to work on Tooth and Claw full-time. 

There are bound to be listeners who are now more afraid than ever of wildlife, but there’s ample opportunity to gain knowledge from each episode, whether that’s taking your earphones out on a hike to avoid startling a bear or using a portable electrified fence around your tent when camping in grizzly bear country.  

“This is an animal that can be totally unpredictable”

Despite Larson’s intention to educate about wildlife behavior, in the Soda Butte episode, one thing becomes clear – not all animal attacks can be explained by someone getting too close for a photo or leaving food inside their tents. The 2010 victims were innocently sleeping when the bears attacked.

Larson has been studying bear behavior for years, and those years have taught him two things above all else – bears can be unpredictable, and having a deterrent in bear country is your best defense. For him, that deterrent is bear spray.

“I trust bear spray. It works really well. There's plenty of studies that have been done that show how well it works and having that tool and knowing how to use it, that gives me a lot more confidence going into any kind of situation with a grizzly.” 

With that confidence, he says, you can venture into a wilderness area such as Yellowstone or Alaska – two places he says are his favorite for wildlife viewing in North America – and experience these animals as more than just a potential threat.

“When you really dig into their biology and you get to know them a little bit better, you see that they're really complex animals, and they have adapted to us, and that to me is such a trophy that we need to hand to this animal because it's really hard to adapt to our presence.” 

And conversely, when you remove these predators from wild spaces, those areas cease to be wild, and from Larson’s perspective at least grow “stale and tame.”

“I feel like the main thing that I've learned as I've worked with bears is a deeper appreciation for wilderness and for open spaces and places where these animals are allowed to live their natural lives.”

• “They aren’t our friends” – Wild Kingdom host on the most common wildlife viewing mistakes

In the outdoor world, few of us will admit to being sartorial snobs – we rate functionality over fashion, right? So long as it works in the hills, we don’t give a toss about how it looks in the bar afterwards. Except… we’re all lying to ourselves aren’t we?

Go into any Peak District pub or alpine-area café, attend an outdoor festival, a talk by an adventure celebrity, or just look around during a trail-running, mountain biking, kayaking or climbing event and you’ll see that everyone is at it: we’re all checking out one another’s threads and making judgements. Nice jacket. Lovely softshell. Tasty trail-running shoes. Damn – bet that Arcteryx top cost a bit…

We’re every bit as guilty of label-leering as the Gucci-wearing set. And we don’t restrict ourselves to wearing our best kit in the hills. I’m right there with the other mums and dads at the school gate in my conspicuously clean puffer jacket or fleece. And why not? I use these pieces of technical apparel in the wild as well, but they’re comfy, warm and good-looking for everyday wear too (and I really don’t have much else in my wardrobe anyway).

Peaks to streets

All the big names in the outdoor game – Patagonia, Black Diamond, The North Face – earned their high-ranking kudos by producing gear for use in the extreme parts of the globe. But so too did many pioneering British brands. And much of this clothing was being designed and made by the very people who were wearing it on the world’s highest summits, because they alone knew what was required in such challenging conditions. And that makes for a very cool story – one that is finally being told in a new book, Mountain Style, by Henry Iddon and Max Leonard.

The book traces the journey outdoor apparel has taken since Colonel John Hunt led the British Expedition on Everest in 1953, when Tenzing Norgay and Edmund Hillary reached the top of the world. In the decades following, participation in recreational outdoor pursuits boomed, and the clothing hikers and mountaineers wore evolved from woolly jumpers, army surplus, cotton and tweed into highly technical specialist gear.

A small group of climbers who couldn’t find the products they needed decided to make them, leading to the founding of British brands including Rab, Berghaus, Craghoppers, Karrimor, Mountain Equipment and Sprayway. As the book observes: ‘Still worn in the toughest environments imaginable, British outdoor clothing is also now ubiquitous – equally seen on hikers, everyday dog-walkers and vintage gear lovers in east London, Manchester’s Northern Quarter or Tokyo.

Funded through a Kickstarter campaign, Mountain Style: British Outdoor Clothing 1953-2000 is the first illustrated book to tell this story, from the days of postwar austerity, through the colour explosion of the 1980s, to the 1990s, when outdoor clothing became embedded in football and rave subcultures and crossed into the mainstream. It celebrates the outsiders, the problem solvers and the mavericks: the manufacturing pioneers and the mountaineers who from humble beginnings went further, faster and higher – and inadvertently created style classics along the way.

Alongside interviews with those at the birth of the brands, Mountain Style features vintage brochures, adverts and photos, plus new studio photography. From down jackets that summited Everest in 1953 to the first Gore-Tex and multicolored fleeces, via logos, materials and more.

If you love the outdoors and the gear and brands that made it more accessible to more people over the last few decades, this is a fascinating and illuminating read.  

Peaks to page

I recently spoke to the creators of the book to find out how it had come about. “At Isola Press we publish books about cycling, mountains and the outdoors,” explains Max. “A few years ago we published a book of photos from the Rough-Stuff Fellowship Archive, the world’s oldest off-road cycling club, and I was struck by what the cyclists were wearing: breeches, woollen socks and hats, shirts and Greenspot jackets made of Ventile cotton – very much classic outdoor wear. This amazing trove of archive pictures got me thinking – nobody had ever pulled together something visual about British outdoor clothing.

“I was convinced that there must be a social and cultural story to tell, and amazing pictures to unearth. Whereas American brands are often very slick in their marketing and self-promotion, and at mining their own heritage for inspiration, the British tendency is to be quieter and more self-effacing. But there were many incredible inventions and achievements, and time was running out to talk to many of the prime movers from those pioneering early days.”

For photographer Henry Iddon, the book is the product of a decades-long passion for adventure and apparel. “I’ve been involved in outdoor sports virtually all my life,” he tells me. “I had poster of Doug Scott, from Everest 1975, on my bedroom wall as a teenager and watched excitedly as gear innovation exploded in the late 70s and early 80s, so there’s no doubt I’m a gear nerd.

“As someone in the creativity industries and who played an important role in celebrating outdoor culture at a big mountain festival it just seemed to make sense to pull it all together. Having done some work with Max on his Rough Stuff Fellowship publications we got talking and after a monumental amount of research we now have a book.”

Season 11 of Alone – the hit US survival reality TV show – premieres on the History channel on Thursday, June 13. The show's producers promise "the most remote" season ever – and you can stream it all online in the US and Canada. Venturing overseas? You'll need to use a VPN to unblock your usual service and watch Alone S11 (2024) from abroad.

• Release date: June 13, 2024
• Start time: 9 pm ET/PT
• Episodes: 1-12
• US stream: History Channel (via Sling TV / Philo / Hulu)
• Watch Alone S11 from anywhere with NordVPN

Alone season 11 preview

Alone puts "the survival of the fittest" to the test in a remote location – typically indigenous lands in and around the Arctic Circle. Season 11 of the original, American version of the show drops ten brave souls in the brutal landscape of Inuvik, Canada, where temperatures can drop to -4°F (-20°C). Ouch!

Season 11 will be one of the longest-running seasons in Alone history (12 episodes, plus a pre-season 'Before the Drop' special). As ever, contestants are allowed to pick 10 essential items (fishing line, bow, chocolate bar) before they head off into the wilderness to record themselves hunting for salmon, fending off bears and moose, building shelters and grappling with loneliness. Last one standing wins a cool $500,000.

The tap out starts soon... very soon. So this is going to be a tough season. The show is available first in the States and Canada, but we'll show Americans and Canadians traveling abroad how to watch Alone season 11 from anywhere below.

How to watch Alone season 11 online in the US

Alone season 11 airs first on the History Channel from June 13, which is also home to Alone UK and Alone Australia. Episode 1 is preceded by pre-season special, 'Before the Drop'.

Don't have cable? Americans can stream the History Channel via Sling TV and Philo (7-day free trial).

Viewers can also stream new episodes of Alone season 11 the next day on Hulu. 

Heading off on an adventure of your own? You'll need a powerful VPN to unblock your usual American streamer when overseas and thus watch Alone from anywhere outside the USA. Details below...

Watch Alone S11 from anywhere in the world

Just because the History Channel isn't available everywhere doesn't mean you can't watch Alone season 11 if you're away from home. With a good VPN (virtual private network), you can stream the shows you love from anywhere. 

NordVPN  is the pick of the litter as it offers superb speeds and excellent customer service.

Using a VPN is incredibly simple.

1. Install the VPN of your choice. As we've said, NordVPN is our favorite.

2. Choose the location you wish to connect to in the VPN app. For instance, if you're in the U.K. and want to view an American service, you'd select U.S. from the list.

3. Sit back and enjoy the show. Head to your platform of choice and stream Alone season 11 from anywhere on the planet!

Can I watch Alone US season 11 in Canada?

Good news: Alone season 11 will be broadcast on Global TV in Canada, starting 10 pm ET/PT on June 13.

Canadians can stream Alone via the STACKTV add-on with Prime Video. Plans cost from $12.99 a month after a free trial.

Traveling outside Canada at the moment? Download NordVPN to watch your usual Canadian streaming service when overseas.

Can I watch Alone US season 11 in the UK?

New seasons of the American version of Alone usually show up on the History Channel in the UK, but there's no confirmation of that yet, or indeed of the UK release date.

Don't forget: US fans visiting the UK can tap into their usual American streaming services and watch Alone S11 from anywhere with NordVPN. Details above.  

Can I watch Alone season 11 in Australia?

Again, there's no official release date as yet. Previous seasons of Alone USA have streamed on Binge, although season 2 of the Aussie version of Alone has just dropped on SBS on Demand.

For now, anybody currently visiting Australia from the U.S. or Canada can use one of the best VPN services to access their usual streaming service. We recommend NordVPN. Step-by-step instructions just above!

Alone S11 breakdown

Alone season 11 contestants

• Cubby Hoover (33), bowyer/homesteader from Seligman, MO
• Dub Paetz (44), wilderness skills practitioner from Frederic, MI
• Peter Albano (42), librarian from Castlegar, BC
• Dusty Blake (36), welder from Fifty-Six, AR
• Michele Carriere (34), adventure guide from Cumberland House, SK
• Timber Cleghorn (35), humanitarian aid worker from Salem, IN
• William Larkham Jr. (49), fisherman from Happy Valley Goose Bay, NL
• Jake Messinger (42), professional falconer from Fremont County, ID
• Sarah Poynter (48), fishing lodge owner from Skwentna, AK
• Isaiah Tuck (36), game warden from Ghent, WV

Alone season 11 episode guide

Alone S11 E01 – Enter the Circle, June 13, 2024 (94 mins)
In Alone's most remote location, ten new survivalists must survive north of the Arctic Circle as they face the cold and dwindling sun for a chance to win $500,000.

Alone S11 E02 – Opportunity Cost, June 20, 2024 (94 mins)
As five new survivalists begin their first days in the Mackenzie River Delta they are met with an abundance of challenges in the uncharted Arctic terrain. When opportunity presents itself to the participants, will they be able to capitalize on the moment? One participant loses a critical item while another embarks on the hunt of a lifetime.

Alone S11 E03 – Fortune, 27 Jun 2024

Alone S11 E04 – TBA, 4 Jul 2024

Alone S11 E05 – TBA, 11 Jul 2024

Alone S11 E06 – TBA, 18 Jul 2024

Alone S11 E07 – TBA, 25 Jul 2024

Alone S11 E08 – TBA, 1 Aug 2024

Alone S11 E09 – TBA, 8 Aug 2024

Alone S11 E10 – TBA, 15 Aug 2024

Alone S11 E11 – TBA, 22 Aug 2024

Alone S11 E12 – TBA, 29 Aug 2024

Q&A with Dub Paetz from Alone season 11

Wilderness expert and season 11 contestant Dub Paetz has commented on his recent Alone experience on Reddit. Here's what he had to say...

How many times did you try out for the show?
I applied two times. The first was trying to get on season 4. Honestly I’m glad it didn’t happen the first time. I learned a lot of skills in the last few years. I was probably not really ready the first time.

How much did you study the previous seasons to do better, and can you share anything you learned from previous seasons that you used on this season?
Yes! I watched every season more than one time. It is impossible to prepare for the first few days. They sort of just happen. Drop shock is a real deal. I was able to look back on so many amazing contestants and perhaps finally fall back on my survival skills and push through that.

Weird question – do you ever really feel at ease at night? 
Slept like a baby out there mostly.

Are you currently watching Alone Australia S2?
I haven’t seen any of this season yet. I did see last year's AUS season and enjoyed it.

Does everyone get a bow outside of their 10 items now? 
A bow is one of the ten items. Could be valuable, or not.

More from Advnture

• The best GPS watches: the latest models from Coros, Garmin and more tested
• The best running shoes we've tested so far
• Hiking alone: the benefits and risks

A new team of 14 brave new trekkers have traveled to New Zealand's South Island for an adventure in the Southern Alps – every one of them hoping to win a share of a $1 million cash prize. Here's how to watch The Summit season 2 – including information on how Aussies can use a VPN to watch the high-altitude reality show from overseas.

• Release date: Episodes 7, 8 and 9 of The Summit season 2 will be available at 7.30pm AEST on Monday, May 27, Tuesday, May 28, and Wednesday May 29, respectively. All previous episodes are available on 9Now. 
• Australia stream: 9Now
• US stream: TBC
• UK stream: TBC
• Watch The Summit season 2 from anywhere with NordVPN

The Summit season 2: the story so far

In 2023, 14 strangers – all newbie climbers – were sent on an expedition to scale Mount Head in the New Zealand's Southern Alps. Three members of the team ultimately made it to the summit after surviving 200 kilometers of challenging terrain, each taking home a share of the prize money. 

Now Channel 9 and 9Now have organized a follow-up adventure, as The Summit season 2 invited 14 more brave trekkers to scale an 8,000-foot peak in 15 days – taking in vertigo-inducing climbs and icy conditions along the way. 

This year's line-up of contestants features a midwife, a farmer and an actual NASA rocket scientist, while there's also a few famous faces, including former Neighbours star Olympia Valance, and rugby league legend Mat Rogers. Hollywood star Jai Courtney (Terminator Genisys, Suicide Squad) hosts again. 

As before, each contestant will be carrying a share of that prize money in their backpack. That's crucial, because if a trekker falls behind, their money is removed from the cash pot shared between the trekkers who make it to the summit. While teamwork is undoubtedly important, politics will also come into play on the mountain as trekkers can also vote rivals off the show when they reach checkpoints en route.

After ballet director David was voted off in episode 1, Jai Courtney showed up to introduce a new twist. An extra $250,000 was added to the prize pot, but it came with a caveat. The bonus cash has to be carried by a single trekker, and – if they make it to the end – they can decide whether to share the money with the group, or keep it for themselves. The group elected to give Phil the responsibility of carrying the money.

Since then, Theo has left the group on doctor's orders, Ros, Lochie and Olympia have been voted off the mountain, and professional poker player Sharksey has quit after claiming the game is rigged. 

Season 1's "most capable player" Sam has also returned as "The Chaser". Although the trekkers had several days' head start on him, he took just three days to catch up with them and earn the opportunity to steal someone's money. He's not been the only threat to the overall jackpot, however, seeing as one terrifying high rope obstacle in cost the team a whopping $100,000. At least there have been rounds of duffle bag roulette for the trekkers to try and win some of that cash back...

Who will come out on top in this expedition to the roof of the world? You'll have to watch The Summit season 2 to find out. Read on to learn how.

How to watch The Summit season 2 for free in Australia

The Summit season 2 is free-to-air in Australia on Channel 9 and its 9Now streaming service. You can also watch all 10 episodes of season 1 on the platform.

If you're an Aussie heading off on an adventure of your own, you'll need to use a VPN to follow the climbers' progress. Find out how below.

Watch The Summit season 2 from anywhere in the world

A VPN, or virtual private network, is a nifty app that unblocks geo-restricted websites, allowing you to tune into your usual home coverage even if you're traveling abroad. It's a fantastic piece of software with many uses, so if you're an Aussie fan of The Summit overseas during the season 2 run, you'll want to add one to your kit bag.

Our favorite VPN is NordVPN thanks to its combination of superb speed, great customer service and affordable price. 

We find that it unblocks almost any restricted website and streaming service you can think of...

Using a VPN is incredibly simple.

1. Install the VPN of your choice. As we've said, NordVPN is our favorite.

2. Choose the location you wish to connect to in the VPN app. For instance, if you're an Australian resident in the US and want to view your usual 9Now service, you'd select Australia from the list.

3. Sit back and enjoy the action. Head to 9Now and stream The Summit season 2.

Can I watch The Summit season 2 in the US or UK?

At present, there's no US or UK broadcaster confirmed for The Summit season 2. However, as Deadline reported earlier this year, a US version of the show is coming to CBS this fall, hosted by New Zealand actor Manu Bennett. 

But don't forget, if you're an Australian resident in the US or UK when The Summit airs, you can still use a VPN to tune into your usual 9Now service.

Who are this year's trekkers?

Here are the 14 contestants competing for the $1 million prize. Find out more about them on the official Channel 9 website.

• Simone, 51, a business owner and actress (best known for McLeod's Daughters) from New South Wales
• Mat, 48, a former international rugby star from Queensland
• Tiffany, 46, a singer from New South Wales
• Olympia, 31, an actress (best known for Neighbours) from Victoria LEFT IN EPISODE 5
• Glen 'Sharksey', 30, an unprofessional poker player from Queensland LEFT IN EPISODE 3
• David, 59, technical director for the West Australian ballet, from Western Australia LEFT IN EPISODE 1
• Lochie, 31, a farmer and councillor from Tasmania LEFT IN EPISODE 4
• Taylor, 28, a stevedore from Victoria
• Phil, 43, a martial artist and motivational speaker from Western Australia
• Theo, 49, a stay-at-home dad from Victoria LEFT IN EPISODE 2
• Trisha, 44, a personal trainer from South Australia
• Charlotte, 35, a nurse and midwife from New South Wales
• Ros, 41, a horse trainer and farmer from Queensland LEFT IN EPISODE 2
• Ava, 29, an aerospace engineer from Los Angeles and Western Australia

More from Advnture

• The best down jackets: stay warm and toasty in the wilderness
• The best hiking boots we've tested so far
• How to use an ice axe: wield your ice tool with confidence

Normally when it movie production company says its looking to employ “runners” it’s referring to the lowly paid workers behind the scenes, who do all the tedious and basic tasks that help productions run smoothly. 

But in the case of 28 Years Later – the belated sequel to 28 Days Later (2002) and 28 Weeks Later (2007) – the production is literally looking for runners, as well as cyclists, open water swimmers and other outdoors types – to cast as extras.

28 Years Later – which will be directed by Danny Boyle, who also helmed the first film in the zombie* franchise (Juan Carlos Fresnadillo directed 28 Weeks Later) – will be shooting around Newcastle, Gateshead and Northumbria starting in May. (*Although technically they’re not zombies, as pedantic cineastes will point out – they’re created through a virus and they move too fast.)

Earlier this month a casting call had already gone out for outdoor types including gardeners, farmers, sea fishermen, wild swimmers, mountain climbers and people who might live off-grid.

But now, according to Chroniclelive, the production company’s casting agency Casting Collective has put out a renewed call specifically for "ultra marathon runners; serious cyclists and triathletes" as well as anyone else with “lean strong physiques”.

Candy Marlowe, the film team’s second assistant director in charge of crowd scenes, has told Chroniclelive that she is seeking to draw together a whole community of extras to work in the film’s big crowd scenes: "I'm building a community look, so different skills really are an asset.”

The initial casting call-outs, which sought all ethnicities, genders and ages ranging from those with older character faces to children, had an “amazing” response from people in the North East, said a spokeswoman for Casting Collective who added: "We have had lots of excited applicants who are super keen to get involved with this production.”

As well as 28 Days Later, which starred Cillian Murphy, Danny Boyle has directed such films as Shallow Grave, Trainspotting, The Beach, Sunshine and Yesterday, winning an Oscar for Slumdog Millionaire. He was also the creative genius behind the London 2012 Olympics opening ceremony.

• The best road running shoes 2024: hit the streets at speed

Lord of the Rings and Pirates of the Caribbean star Orlando Bloom has long had a reputation as a thrillseeker and he’s now putting that passion to some extreme tests in a new three-part adventure documentary series Orlando Bloom: To the Edge for the US streaming service Peacock, which has just unleashed the trailer.

The series follows the daredevil actor as he pushes himself to the limits in extreme sports such as wingsuiting, freediving and climbing. He also opens up about a near-fatal accident that happened in 1998 that changed his perspective on life and adventure, and also tried to find ways of overcoming challenges through spiritual growth (which appears to include using Tibetan singing bowls).

Bloom wants to prove to people who are thinking about attempting these extreme sports for themselves that while training can be challenging and working through the fear can be a major obstacle, nothing is impossible. He believes in finding contentment when one can push one’s limitsm, saying, “Being on this edge makes me feel most alive, and this is a deep spiritual journey to find a sense of peace.” 

The trailer also reveals the scars left on Bloom’s body following his life-changing accident in 1998. He was climbing up a rooftop terrace with friends when the drainpipe he was holding onto collapsed. Bloom fell several floors and broke his back. 

For about four days, he believed that he would have to live in a wheelchair for the rest of his life. But thanks to sheer willpower and determination, he was able to leave the hospital just a few weeks later. 

“This accident affected everything in my life,” he’s said previously. “You don’t notice it until you’re about to lose it.”

Orlando Bloom: To the Edge will be available to stream on Peacock in the US on April 18, 2024. Details of streaming in the rest of the world have yet to be announced.

• The best hiking boots 2024: serious protection for all your outdoor adventures

Is there anything that can’t rendered in Lego? Everything from Death Stars to landmarks to human anatomy (complete with functioning, but non-gory blood circulatory system, no less) have undergone plastic brick reinventions. We’e even seen some MTB tracks. 

But for winter sports fans, this new, fully functioning ski slope with ski lift is just very cool, even if we’re not entirely sure why it features a yeti cave. Imagine building this on Christmas morning (so you can get out of peeling the potatoes). And, as the video reveals, the mechanisms to get the thing working are genius in their simplicity.

This snowy minifig masterpiece is the creation of the Lego master builders at JK Brickworks, which is actually Jason Allemann and his partner Kristal.

You can order the 783-part kit from BuildaMOC, or just the instructions from the JK Brickworks website if you think you have enough Lego brisk already but Jason warns that if you order the kits now, he cannot guarantee a Christmas delivery sadly.

Jason, whose love of Lego construction was ignited by the explosion of Lego Star Wars toys in the late ’90s, says of his ski resort set:

“This is a fully operational ski hill that allows your minifigs to go skiing on their own. The ski lift will bring your minifigs to the top of the hill, where a turntable turns them around and sends them down the slope. Once they reach the bottom, another turntable brings them to the base of the lift, taking them back to the top.”

Manual and powered versions are available. No mention of whether the yeti comes as standard, though.

• Which winter sport is for you? Discover your cold-weather adventure type

Rock climbing – the activity for which the word 'awesome' was created. There’s just something about the emotive spectacle of a tiny, determined humans clinging to gargantuan vertical edifices that’s made for film cameras to capture. A combination of bravery, skill and madness that becomes magnetic to watch. 

So when Brit Rock V goes on a UK tour – and on a virtual world tour online – later this month, you can bet there’ll be plenty of awesomeness on display. The trailer certainly promises some sights to savour.

Brit Rock V is five short films about British climbing that capture an array of “hardcore action, pioneering spirit and some proper madness”, says the marketing blurb. The 

You’ll be able to the films on the big screen (the best way for ultimate awe factor) at various venues around the UK from 7 November 2023 to 15 February 2024 (see the full details here). 

But if you can’t make any of them, no worries. You can see the films online vai Vimeo, from 9-13 November. You can pre-order tickets now for £20 using this link.

The films are: 

Hard Git: Controversial and never far from the news; climber Matt Wright goes trailblazing across the UK, making wild first ascents, hard solos and bold new lines. Loveable rogue and working-class hero Matt puts his money where his mouth is in this tour-de-force of hard climbing. (25min)

Goddess of Craic: The story of rising trad star Freja Shannon as she pursues her climbing goals for the season on the west coast of Ireland (with “gripping footage that will leave your jaw on the floor”) while also delving into the climber’s past, revealing her less-than-glamorous journey to becoming a professional climber. (27min)

Shining Stones: Climber Robbie Phillips chances upon a little-known mountain Ben Lyal in the very far north of Scotland whilst driving from east coast to west. After some research, Robbie discovers that climbing legend Simon Nadin has been developing a couple of lines at the crag. Simon tells him that there is something very special up there… A truly stunning film of hard new routing by Robbie and Simon in an extraordinary setting. (25min)

Helmcken Falls: Emma Powell and Neil Gresham join the original pioneers of this unique ice climbing venue in British Columbia, Tim Emmett and Klemen ‘Klem’ Premrl once again push the boundaries of steep, sporty ice. (15min)

Head Jam: Filmmaker Alastair Lee turns the camera on himself in this deep introspective story of triumph through adversity. Perceived as a successful man with the perfect life, Al experiences unexpectedly dark times. Fearing he will lose everything, we watch a man on the brink claw his way from despair, using climbing and training to find peace and salvation. A gripping, hilarious, emotional and ultimately inspiring story of a man in struggle as he seeks to reconnect with himself. Adding to the riotous flavour of this production, Al asks the climbers he’s working with to do the filming. (35min)

• 9 rock climbing holds you need to know

Celebrated US mountaineer Alex Honnold may have just lost his El Capitan speed record, but we doubt he’s too worried. The man who was the subject of the acclaimed documentary movie Free Solo has been taking on a spectacular new challenge in Greenland, and National Geographic went along with him to film it all for a new documentary, Arctic Ascent With Alex Honnold. 

The first trailer has just been released and you can watch it below. It looks pretty awesome.

National Geographic will premier Arctic Ascent on 4 February 2024 on Disney+. In the three-part documentary Honnold and his team head to Greenland to climb Ingmikortilaq in hopes of a first ascent.

The series shows Honnold fulfilling a lifelong ambition to climb the most remote and toughest walls of Greenland while also showcasing how climate change is affecting the region. Joining Honnold on his quest are world-class climbers Hazel Findlay and Mikey Schaefer, Dr Heïdi Sevestre, Greenlandic guide Adam Kjeldsen, and renowned adventurer Aldo Kane.

One of Earth's tallest unclimbed natural monoliths, the 3,750ft Ingmikortilaq (pronounced Ing-mick-ort-till-lack) is a three-million-year-old granite and gneiss cliff located on a remote peninsula in Greenland's eastern coast. Its name means “the separate one” in Greenlandic and it is situated in an area considered “at ground zero” of the climate crisis.

Born in 1985, in Sacramento, California, Honnold is best known for his death-defying free solo climbs, climbing ruthless rock walls without any safety ropes or equipment. He is the founder of the Honnold Foundation, an environmental nonprofit devoted to fighting climate change by promoting solar energy for a more equitable world. 

• Mountaineering vs rock climbing: what’s the difference?

This summer, a Belgian ultra runner made trail running history when he ran the 2,650-mile Pacific Crest Trail in just 46 days, 12 hours and 50 minutes. This week, a new feature-length documentary was released detailing his extraordinary feat.

Karel Sabbe, a 33-year-old dentist from the city of Ghent, started at the Mexico border in July and averaged about 58 miles per day in his On Cloudultra 2 trail running shoes to reach Canada by the end of August. That's roughly two marathons every day in the time it would take most of us to learn how to do a pullup.

The previous record was set in 2021 by American runner Timothy Olson, who managed an impressive time of 51 days, 16 hours and 55 minutes, but Sabbe's ability to shave a full five days off the previous record is nothing less than astonishing, especially when you consider the gruelling conditions he had to run in.

"Over the years, I came to appreciate having a hard time in nature," says Sabbe, in the documentary, which you can watch below, adding "I know when you're doing something extremely hard, the rewards are big as well."

Sabbe is no stranger to the challenging trail – this was his third time doing the PCT –or the conditions out west, having volunteered at US National Parks in the past. However, triple digit temperatures, wildfires and historic snowpack on his journey provided ample challenge, and he admits his success was only made possible thanks to a crew of four who set up his tent, cooked his meals and helped with first aid.

The hour-long documentary was released by Backcountry on Youtube and is free to watch now.

What is the Pacific Crest Trail?

The PCT is a hiking and equestrian trail that roughly follows the Cascade and Sierra Nevada mountains near the west coast of the U.S. Travelling north, the trail spans the entire length of the U.S. from Mexico to Canada and takes hikers through California, Oregon and Washington. 

The official start of the PCT is a California border town called Campo and its terminus is Manning Park in British Columbia. Though the PCT is near sea level in parts, much of it is at high altitude with its highest point being Forester Pass near Mount Whitney at 13,180ft.

• Best trail running shoes: speed and grip

Alone UK – the British version of the American survival TV show – is available to watch for free on Channel 4 in the UK right now. Episodes are available to binge on-demand immediately after airing. Venturing overseas? You'll need to use a VPN to unblock Channel 4 and watch Alone UK (2023) from the US, Australia or beyond.

• Release date: First episode aired on August 6, 2023. New episodes debut on Sundays.
• Episodes: 1-6
• UK stream: Channel 4
• US stream: TBC
• Watch Alone UK from anywhere with ExpressVPN

Alone UK season 1 preview

Alone UK is a spinoff of the hugely-popular American survival show, Alone, which sees a small group of intrepid contestants dropped on a remote, uninhabited landscape with just 10 essentials and a walkie-talkie for medical emergencies. 

The British version follows a similar format to the History channel original: 11 people, dropped in Canada's remote wilderness, compete to survive for as long as possible. They must feed and film themselves without any help. The last one standing wins the £100k first prize. 

Of course, taking on mother nature is no picnic. From deadly poisonous plants to shocking wildfires and vicious predators (think bears, wolves and moose), it's easy to see why so many contestants 'tap out' in the first two weeks. And that's before you factor in the crippling loneliness.

Excited to watch what's been described as the toughest survival show on British TV screens? New episodes of Alone UK season 1 air weekly for free on Sundays on Channel 4 in the UK, and are available on the Channel 4 website and app ahead of broadcast. This is bound to be one of the most talked about shows on TV, so follow our handy guide below for details of how to watch Alone UK online from anywhere on planet Earth, no matter how remote.

How to watch Alone UK free online

Alone UK is free-to-air on Channel 4 in the UK. Better yet, viewers can catch up with every episode so far – including episode four, ahead of its broadcast on Sunday – on the Channel 4 website and app.

Heading off on an adventure of your own? You'll need a VPN (and a valid TV licence) to watch Channel 4 when overseas. 

Watch Alone UK from anywhere in the world

A VPN, or virtual private network, is a nifty app that unblocks geo-restricted websites, allowing your to tune into your home coverage from wherever you are. It's a fantastic bit of kit with many uses.

Our favorite VPN is ExpressVPN thanks to its combination of superb speed, great customer service and affordable price. 

We find that it unblocks almost any restricted website and streaming service one can think of...

Using a VPN is incredibly simple.

1. Install the VPN of your choice. As we've said, ExpressVPN is our favorite.

2. Choose the location you wish to connect to in the VPN app. For instance, if you're in the US and want to view a UK service, you'd select UK from the list.

3. Sit back and enjoy the action. Head to Channel 4 and stream Alone UK.

Can I watch Alone UK in the US?

We'd expect the UK version of Alone to make its way to US TV screens in the future... but there's no official release date as yet.

Don't forget: UK-based Alone fans visiting the US can watch for free with a VPN. Details just above.  

Can I watch Alone UK in Australia?

Again, there's no official release date as yet. In the meantime, UK-based Alone fans visiting Oz can watch all episodes of Alone UK for free on Channel 4 with a VPN. Follow the step-by-step instructions just above and you'll be streaming it in no time!    

What is Alone UK

Alone UK contestants

• Alan, 43, from Birmingham is a woodland manager
• Elise, 32, from London is a PR executive
• Eva, 24, from Lees is an NHS project manager
• Javed, 58, from Ripon is a business coach and mentor
• Kian, 19, from London is a student
• Laura, 40, from Lincolnshire is an entrepreneur
• Louie, 28, from Wallasey is a builder
• Mike, 49, from Manchester is a joiner
• Naomi, 26, from Pembrokeshire is a clothing designer
• Pip, 47, from Aberdeenshire is a wild swimming coach
• Tom, 39, from Portsmouth is an expedition company director

Alone UK season 1: full episode guide

Alone UK season 1, episode 1 (aired August 6, 2023)
Eleven contestants are dropped into the remote Northern Canadian wilderness to survive alone. There's shock and trepidation as they discover the first signs of bears and wolves. They race to put up shelters and light fires before the sun sets.

Alone UK season 1, episode 2 (aired August 13, 2023)
The reality of living alone in one of the most inhospitable places on Earth kicks in. Some contestants prioritise building shelters for long-term survival, others are focused on sourcing food.

Alone UK season 1, episode 3 (aired August 20, 2023)
Extreme hunger kicks in, and finding food becomes crucial. Even for people with experience of fishing, the mighty Mackenzie River doesn't give up its rewards easily, which leaves some competitors increasingly desperate.

Alone UK season 1, episode 4 (aired August 27, 2023 )
The battle with isolation takes a toll on some, while others discover a new perspective on life. A wild storm puts everyone in danger, but who will survive another night with a predator at large?

Alone UK season 1, episode 5 (airs September 3, 2023 – now available at www.channel4.com and on the Channel 4 app)
Attempts to find meals become increasingly desperate, while an injury threatens one person's chance of survival. But with the end in sight, who will have what it takes to survive the longest?

Alone UK season 1, episode 6 (airs September 10, 2023)
Information TBC.

Nine fun facts about Alone UK

• The UK series of Alone was filmed on land around the Mackenzie River, in the Dehcho region of the Northwest Territories in Canada
• The land used for the filming of Alone UK is uninhabited by humans
• The competitors were each dropped a minimum of one mile away from each other
• Each had their own designated area of around 3.75 square miles
• Each competitor had to carry a GPS device at all times, which allowed the production team to monitor the competitors’ whereabouts
• Competitors were allowed to choose 10 pieces of survival kit from a list of 53 essential items
• Each competitor was given five cameras with multiple mounts, enabling them to film themselves by holding, wearing or fixing cameras to objects nearby
• Competitors were given full safety training on the best way to handle animal encounters. They also had a first aid kit for emergencies and were given remote trauma first aid training.
• All of the shelters were dismantled and all traps and snares located and removed once a competitor tapped out. 

Q&A with Laura Try from Alone UK season 1

Why did you want to take part in Alone UK?

This is the ultimate adventure – it’s all of the lessons that I’ve taken from my previous challenges put into one and putting me to the test to see how well I’ll do. I’m desperate to get out and connect with nature, and be away from the noise of digital and other people and to go really, really deep and see what I’m capable of. I feel a deep desire to go through this discomfort. And I just want to see if I am capable of getting my water, getting my food, building my little home and finding out how I will cope whilst doing all of that.

What strengths will you bring to the wilderness?

My strengths are my routine and the care I’ve put into my body and mind. I love a routine, I’m very methodical and I like scenario planning and thinking of solutions.  I’m also really good at self-care, looking after my body because I’m a runner and I exercise, so that helps me stay injury free. Plus I keep my mind healthy. So I’m looking forward to taking those strengths and skills out with me, because it’s not all about axe work and knife, it’s about looking after my feet, looking after my mind and getting lots of sleep as well. So I’ll just find that balance between all of the skills.

How big a challenge will this be for you?

This is going to be my biggest challenge to date, my ultimate adventure.  This involves such minimal kit – I’ll be by myself, just me and mother nature. This feels like the ultimate challenge and all the lessons that I’ve learnt previously have led to this moment.

Mental or physical, which do you think you’ll be stronger at?

I will probably do better at the mental side, only because my skills aren’t as strong as I would like them to be. During previous challenges, I’ve found my body often says no more but my mind tells me to carry on, so I’ll just keep listening to my mind and carry on, especially knowing that if I have a bad day one day, the next day might be a good day. 

What worries you the most about this adventure?

If my kit gets wet, if I can’t build a good enough shelter and the weather gets the better of me, that concerns me because generally that means I might have to tap out. But then I try not to focus on those things because if I think about it enough, it might happen.  The only way that I can stop those things happening is by focusing on what I can do.

What do you think most people would think about you doing a challenge like this?    

When I tell my friends that I’m doing this, they will say “of course you are.” Other people might wonder why on earth I would want to do that, but those who know me know this is absolutely perfect for me.

What do you see as your main competition?

I feel as though once I’m out there all sense of competition will be lost because the reason I’m there is to find the lessons.       

Would you like this experience to change you?

I would like to find some lessons to help me become more rounded, soften those sharp edges and help me cope with everyday life a bit better.

How will you feel if you have to tap out?

If I had to tap out, despite feeling disappointed, I wouldn’t want to live with a regret.  If that is the case, I’ll just accept that’s happened and cherish all the moments before that. I’d like to come away feeling great rather than feeling sad about having tapped out.

How do you think you’ll cope with the hunger? 

Because I have done several long fasts, I feel confident, knowing how my body and mind is going to act. It’s going to be a bit of sticky transition but I feel happy with how I’m going to cope. I’ve also got these extra six kilograms on me, that extra bit of fat. Saying that, it’s not going to stop me going out and finding food every day, because ideally I wouldn’t want to get into that mind-set of relying on my body's stored energy.

How did your passion for the outdoors begin?

My passion for the outdoors began with a run to the end of my road. I’d seen people on TV, running across the mountains and in the forest, and I always wanted to do that. So, the obvious thing for me was to start running around the block.  Then that run led to longer runs, which led to marathons. And it just kept escalating and the more stuff that I did outside, the more I loved it and felt so fulfilled. It was not something that I’d ever experienced before. And so as that grew, all of the materialistic stuff, all of the shopaholic traits that I had, they kind of burnt out and my outdoor passion grew.

More from Advnture

• The best GPS watches: the latest models from Coros, Garmin and more tested
• The best running shoes we've tested so far
• Hiking alone: the benefits and risks

A new book by bikepacking enthusiast Markus Stitz launches next month and features 20 great multi-day off-the-beaten-track cycling adventures across the Scottish mainland and islands. Bikepacking Scotland: 20 Multi-day Cycling Adventures Off The Beaten Track is another guide book in a growing collection of adventure-inspiring publications by Vertebrate Publishing.

The book features bikepacking routes of different lengths – from 62km to 676km – and in many scenic locations, from Ayrshire, Dumfries & Galloway and the Borders in southern Scotland, north through the Central Belt and Perthshire, to the Highlands. 

The west coast islands also feature with ferry-hopping adventures around Islay, a paradise for whisky connoisseurs, and Jura and Mull to spot golden eagles. 

Additionally, the book suggests an alternative bikepacking route to the popular North Coast 500 route in north-west Scotland.

The routes – divided into Southern Scotland, Central Belt, Argyll and the Isles, and Highlands – include a range of terrain, from road to dedicated cycle path, path and singletrack. The detailed information makes it easy to work out which route you will enjoy, and what bike to use. Most routes can be accessed by public transport, and you can choose to ride the full route during one trip, or just a section.

The book provides maps, useful details for bikepackers, and an overview description of what you might see and encounter. Additionally, the routes can be downloaded as a GPX file, enabling you to follow them in real-time on a handheld GPS navigator, GPS watch, or your mobile phone. 

Alongside further information on seasons and what to pack, there are portraits of Scottish cycling personalities including round-the-world cycling record breakers Mark Beaumont and Jenny Graham. 

Who is the author of Bikepacking Scotland book?

The book was researched and written by the founder of Bikepacking Scotland, Markus Stitz, who rode a singlespeed bike around the world. He lives in the Central Belt of Scotland and spends much of his time on his bike and exploring multi-day routes in the UK and further afield. It launches on May 18, and you can order a signed copy.

Markus has also written two more books that will provide inspiration for bikepacking, Great British Gravel Rides and Big Rides: Great Britain and Ireland. 

• How to make your e-bike go further on a single charge

On December 9, 2019, Whakaari/White Island erupted in the South Pacific. The stratovolcano lies 30 miles off the coast of New Zealand’s North Island and is just the peak of a much larger submarine volcano. The small island has been built up by continuous volcanic activity over the past 150,000 years, so an eruption in itself wasn’t necessarily newsworthy, except for the fact that 47 people were on the island at the time, having sailed or flown by helicopter from the mainland for the privilege of hiking a volcano. This fact turned it into a catastrophic event – 22 people died that day, with the remaining 25 requiring treatment for serious injuries, while the ongoing volcanic activity hampered rescue efforts for over a week.

It’s the type of event that news outlets usually live for, breathlessly tallying up fatalities while drone footage of the smouldering aftermath scrolls behind them. But it was December 2019 – Australia was on fire, Brexit was looming, and within weeks the world was in lockdown, and thus the devastating news was quickly eclipsed. If it wasn’t for American documentary filmmaker Rory Kennedy, the story might have been lost but to the memories of the 25 survivors, their families and the rescue services, but her gripping new Netflix film The Volcano: Rescue from Whakaari serves to bring the tragedy back to the forefront of the collective imagination.

“I could not believe that this event was not more widely known and felt very strongly that it needed to be – that the survivors, the victims, the victims’ families, and the community deserved to have their stories told,” Kennedy tells Advnture.

Kennedy herself learned of the event via an in-depth article by the journalist Alex Perry. The daughter of the late senator Robert F Kennedy, she has directed scores of documentaries spotlighting pressing social issues from the AIDS pandemic to the Abu Ghraib prisoner abuse scandal. Consequently, her films are rarely easy to watch, and The Volcano is no departure on that front, but she told us that she felt a lot of hope as a result of interviewing the survivors about their experience, something she hopes her viewers will find too.

“I think you will find that the survivors are absolutely remarkable, as were the rescuers. Speaking to them was a chance to stand beside real courage and resilience and selflessness. It is just astounding to see up close what human beings are capable of – and it really makes you believe in the power of human connection.”

The film is largely made using footage shot by survivors and other tourists who were on a boat near the island, interspersed with atmospheric aerial shots and narrated by survivors such as an American couple on their honeymoon, a New Zealand pastor and his daughter and the tour guides that took them out that day. For the first half hour, the viewer is treated to the stunning scenery that has made this island a popular tourist destination for decades, and scenes of the tourists hiking up toward the volcano’s rim. Peaceful zone footage shows plumes of white steam and gentle bubbling pots that cover the fertile green slopes of an island that seems to float in sapphire waters. The suspense builds as the survivors describe learning that the volcano had erupted once every three years for the past six years, and the danger level had recently been elevated, all somehow made more ominous by the picture-perfect day.

With the eruption, the narrative quickly turns tense and then gut-wrenching, leaving some to wonder why anyone would want to watch such a tragedy unfold. For Kennedy, who told us she felt a sense of obligation to those impacted, this film can serve as an important lesson to those of us who are drawn to adrenaline-focused activities in the outdoors.

“Everyone is different. For viewers who might be drawn to adventure sports, I like to think that the film reinforces a lesson they already know – that risk is real. The decision to partake in an experience may be yours to make, but make it with your eyes wide open. Nature is powerful, unpredictable, and ultimately indifferent to you.”

For her own part, she says she had personal reasons for being drawn to the subject too, having lived through the 2018 Woolsey fire, a wildfire that burned 96,949 acres and killed three in Los Angeles.

“While the fire paled in comparison, having had to emergency evacuate with my family and losing over 400 homes in our community to the flames, I was left with a keen sense of vulnerability, the awareness that something profound had happened – the feeling that despite our best efforts to control the world around us, events like these were reminding us of Mother Nature's unbridled power, as well as our harmful impact on the planet.”

Perhaps because the film focuses entirely on the survivors’ direct experience of the day, it feels both stunningly intimate and especially difficult to watch, a directorial decision that Kennedy says she didn’t take lightly.

“From the start, I was keenly aware of my outsider status and the fact that I was approaching an incredibly sensitive subject from a great distance. We also understood many of our contributors were still processing this recent tragedy. It was difficult, and rightly so, to earn peoples' trust, and once we had, we felt an enormous sense of responsibility. It was a bit daunting.”

There’s no doubt that there’s more to this story than is told in this film: how these people could have been handed brochures inviting them to “get close to the drama” when the danger level had recently increased, the geological underpinnings of the event, the economical consequences for the locals who relied on leading the trips to the island or why it took government agencies so long to reach the survivors. But the Oscar-nominated director said the choice to narrow the narrative down to the first-person experience was intentional.

“Sometimes with a film, when you try to do too much, you diminish its clarity, muddy its intention and end up diluting its power,” she explains, adding that she believes there is likely a great film in the story about the various agencies who may or may not have failed in their responsibilities. But the film she set out to make was to tell the stories of those who experienced it.

“People who were tested in the most extreme ways – survivors and rescuers alike who discovered in a flash they possessed an often-unseen level of courage and the ability to persevere.”

For those of us who live for adventure, whether you choose to watch this film out of geological or human interest, it will make you think harder about the risks you take when you go into the wild.

A new National Geographic docu series is coming to your screens on Monday, August 29 featuring country superstar Garth Brooks and first lady Jill Biden that promises to showcase North America's natural wonders and iconic wildlife as you have never seen them before. America’s National Parks will deliver two sets of five episodes, with the first round showcasing the splendor of diverse landscapes such as the Grand Canyon, Yosemite, Hawaii Volcanoes, Big Bend and Badlands.

Here at Advnture, we can’t get enough of America’s National Parks, whether we’re viewing the geothermal wonders of Yellowstone or strolling among nature’s giants at Redwood, so we were thrilled to sit down with Anwar Mamon, executive producer of the show, and find out what makes this series so special.

Mamon, a British director who was the first to capture the northern lights in real-time for broadcast television using specialist low-light cameras, had only visited Yosemite and the Grand Canyon prior to making the show, and says the appeal for him was getting a closer look at these iconic spaces that many of us just skim the surface of.

“One of the most amazing things for me as a Brit visiting American National Parks is that they’re so accessible, but I think the flipside to that is that they’re so accessible that most people just scratch the surface,” says Mamon, who has spent two years working on the series and is still editing and finishing the final episodes. Though you’ll be able to view the show from the comfort of your own home, technology such as drones and low light technology actually gets you closer to nature than ever before, all without leaving a footprint.

“If I wanted anyone to come away with anything, it’s just how diverse and how more special these places are than you might first imagine, and how different and precious they are and how there’s more to protecting them than you might realize.”

“Many visitors to the Grand Canyon just go to the South Rim – that’s what I did – and there is so much more there that you just wouldn’t be aware of. Things like the Kaibab Forest, which I had no knowledge of until I was on this project, that there were squirrels living in the Grand Canyon when you think it’s just desert and rock.”

In fact, despite the fact that he’d visited it previously, Mamon says that even after visiting 10 different parks, the Grand Canyon remains his favorite.

“It’s always special to me. Each time I’ve been it still takes my breath away, just understanding the geological history of our planet through this huge landscape.”

Of course, the Grand Canyon gets plenty of limelight and most viewers will hardly need any convincing as to its educational or visual merits, however Mamon said a highlight for him with the series is the opportunity to look at National Parks that aren’t the headliners that many people might not realize are that special.

“We were all blown away by Big Bend. It has amazing landscapes, incredible animal characters, some of the best dark skies in the United States if not the planet. We were able to use a low light camera to reveal that side of the park and it’s still as epic as all the other popular National Parks.” 

The low light filming means you’ll get a never-before-seen look at nocturnal wildlife throughout the series and it was down in Big Bend near the Mexican border where Mamon had his favorite moment – filming Mexican Long Nosed bats. 

“Mexican Long Nosed bats haven’t really been filmed before and they come to Big Bend to feed on the agave plant. It only happens at night, it happens sporadically throughout the year and because we could use new technology we were able to show that side of their lives and how they feed and why the park is so important to animals not just that live there but migratory animals too,” he says, explaining that seeing the bats in their natural habitat will help viewers to understand their value within the greater ecosystem.

“Without those plants you wouldn’t have bats and without the bats you would have the plants and you wouldn't have the lush park so it was a nice way to show how it’s all connected and it’s not just about protecting National Parks, it's about protecting as many wild places as we can.”

America’s National Parks premieres Monday, August 29 on Disney+ as part of National Geographic’s National Parks Week and is perfect for anyone who loves exploring natural wonders, whether that’s in your best hiking boots or from the comfort of your own couch.

Sign up for the weekly Advnture newsletter and not only will you get a handy digest of all the week's top reviews, buying tips, and inspiration, we'll also send you a 148-page ebook all about the world's greatest National Parks completely free.

Our newsletter is packed with expert advice on topics like how to become better at rock climbing, how to prevent blisters when hiking, and how to start running consistently. We'll also share our top buying advice, with tried and tested recommendations for gear like the best water shoes, the best hiking boots, and the best one-person tents.

We put all the equipment we test through its paces in real world conditions, so you know exactly how it's going to perform when you're relying on it in the great outdoors. For more details, see how Advnture tests products.

You can cancel at any time, and the ebook is yours to keep and enjoy.

Sign up for free

This 4th of July, you can soar over snow-capped peaks in Alaska, fly below the rim of the Grand Canyon, get into the jaws of a gator, swim with the humpback whales, and buzz a 100mph tornado, all from the comfort of your own couch with a new nature series called America the Beautiful.

This six-part series on Disney+ delivers a never-before-seen look at North America’s unparalleled biodiversity through the lens of cinema-grade cameras mounted onto fighter jets in a Hollywood first. From the producers of Planet Earth and Frozen Planet, it tells the story of life in America, from its Arctic ice caps to baking deserts, and is guaranteed to thrill any love of the great outdoors. Here at Advnture, we got a sneak preview of the series and a chat with its aerial cinematographer, Greg Wilson, about the challenges and rewards he faced with this mammoth cinematic undertaking.

“If there's one thing everybody can get behind in America right now, I think it’s how incredible our country is from a visual standpoint to the landscapes to the animals to the people that are working hard to protect it,” says Wilson, whose work on the project required him and the production team to navigate filming in temperatures as low as -40F in Alaska and as high as 130F Texas, New Mexico and Arizona.

America is the most diverse and extreme continent on Earth, and the producers of the show are here to showcase it. The series opens flying peacefully alongside the towering peaks and vast forest of the Grand Teton mountains in Wyoming and ends by plunging you into Louisiana’s steamy swamplands. Between those two points, it leaves no stone unturned, touching the creatures and plants great and small that live here in the land, sky and ocean.

While the end result is nothing short of dazzling, the effort that went into creating the series was monumental, almost beyond belief, involving dangerous collisions between everything from bison to air currents.

“The most challenging part, without question, was filming the tornadoes. That had to be approached with the utmost care and a delicate approach to such a dynamic, powerful force of nature,” recalls Wilson.

“That was a significant achievement, to fly within a half mile of the tornado. And in all reality, where we placed the aircraft was perfectly smooth air with almost no turbulence, but around us was about as violent air as you can find on the planet.”

Of course, these days a close-up view of nature is bound to deliver some harsh truths about human impact on the earth, something Wilson says was hard to ignore with the forest fires and the wildfire smoke that he encountered across the majority of the western portion of the country.

“It really is worth taking a real, serious look at how we approach saving our ecosystems and how fragile they are,” muses Wilson. Amidst the grim realities, however, were equally infinite triumphs. For Wilson, the true highlight was getting to fly the fighter jet below the rim of the Grand Canyon, something that hadn’t been done in 39 years but became possible when the pandemic shut the National Parks. 

“That was a lot of effort from a lot of people to gain the permissions and to gain the access and to be able to fly it was a true privilege and that will probably never happen again.”

According to Wilson, the idea for mounting cameras on fighter jets came about from trying to film a fast airplane from a helicopter. While a helicopter has a hard time keeping pace, and doesn’t fly in a straight line for very long, fighter jets allow for hyperlapse and long, straight runs, stability, speed and a dynamic maneuverability in three dimensional space that he calls “tough to beat”, and which delivers more than just stunning cinematography.

“I think the aircraft and camera positions and perspective we were able to deliver will show the interconnected nature of the landscape and hopefully give people a little bit of energy and hope that it’s all worth fighting for.”

Whether you have a chillfest planned this holiday, or know you’ll want to put your feet up when you get back from your camping trip, we think you’ll love this series, and trust us: the bigger the screen, the better.

Whether you’ve been rained off the crag or are just seeking inspiration, the best climbing films are an excellent way to pass a couple of hours immersed in stories of human endurance. The burgeoning climbing film genre has evolved from low budget dirtbag documentaries to stunning, critically acclaimed productions in a relatively short amount of time and has helped to catapult the sport of rock climbing into the mainstream imagination.

Our pick of the best climbing films deliver arresting stories of success, tragedy and survival in tales that range from the accomplishments of world’s most famous climbers to those who make their feats possible yet are rarely rewarded. All of these films are a testament to the extraordinary lengths some humans will go to to climb mountains and are thought-provoking and entertaining whether you’re a rock climbing fanatic or just a curious bystander. Grab the popcorn and settle in for some big mountain drama with these films.

Meet the expert

1. Free Solo (2018) 

We’ll start with the most obvious climbing film, but in the off chance you’ve been living under a rock or tend to avoid hype and haven’t seen it yet, go and watch Free Solo immediately. Directed by climber and filmmaker Jimmy Chin, Free Solo follows California climber Alex Honnold’s astonishing 2017 climb of El Capitan in Yosemite National Park without ropes. Beautifully captured by Chin as well as drone footage, this big wall climbing film literally keeps you on the edge of your seat with breathtaking footage of the death defying 3,000ft vertical climb. The bigger the screen the better for this one. This high drama documentary won multiple prizes including the Academy Award for Best Documentary and trust us, it deserves the hype. 

• Buy Free Solo on Amazon

2. The Dawn Wall (2017) 

Though it’s certainly one of the more popular climbing films out there, The Dawn Wall has been slightly overshadowed by the success of Free Solo but in many ways, it’s a more interesting film. Two years before Honnold’s triumph, his peer and fellow rock climbing pioneer Tommy Caldwell was one of two climbers who captivated the world with the first climb of The Dawn Wall route up El Capitan. Where Free Solo narrows in on the magnitude of a single feat and the psychology of the climber, The Dawn Wall takes a broader view which given Caldwell’s story is worthwhile – not only has he been climbing for far longer, he’s also faced some immense challenges, from losing a finger to being held hostage in Kyrgyzstan. It’s the perfect watch after Free Solo when you’re not quite ready to come back to earth, and you’ll find yourself rooting for this humble, impressive climber all the way.  

• Buy The Dawn Wall on Amazon

3. 14 Peaks: Nothing is Impossible (2021) 

Brand new to the climbing scene, 14 Peaks is already one of the best, most exhilarating climbing documentaries ever made. What sets it apart is that instead of showcasing the accomplishments of a white, well-known and amply-sponsored climber (which lets face it is the norm) 14 Peaks follows the until-now unknown Nepalese climber Nirma “Nims” Purja in his 2019 quest to summit all 14 mountains over 8,000m in just seven months. The previous record for this monster feat was seven years and it requires touching the summits of all of the world’s most dangerous mountains. Purja, a laidback and friendly character, devotes his superhuman strength and fearlessness to the plight of his fellow Nepali climbers who have been overlooked since the days of Tenzing Norgay. Pay close attention to the timeline with which he scales the world’s highest peaks, at times accomplishing three in 48 hours where one such mountain would usually take a mere mortal two months. You’ll walk away convinced that Nepalese climbers are the best in the world. 

4. Sherpa (2015) 

After watching 14 Peaks, hopefully you’ll be curious to learn more about the history of controversy surrounding the Sherpas who are instrumental in getting western climbers to the top of the world’s highest peaks while their efforts and skill are rarely acknowledged. If so, start with Sherpa, which looks at the traditions of Sherpa culture and their relationship with Everest through the lens of Phurba Tashi, a Sherpa who has summited the mountain 21 times. The film centers around the events following the deadly 2014 avalanche which killed 16 Sherpas and triggered protests by those who take the greatests risks on Everest. This thought-provoking film presents a narrative both about unheard voices and a different way of viewing Everest – as a spiritual presence to be revered, not an opponent to be conquered. 

• Buy Sherpa on Amazon

5. Meru (2015) 

For another inspiring and beautifully shot Himalayan adventure, go and watch Meru, which chronicles Jimmy Chin, Conrad Anker and Renan Ozturk’s two attempts to summit Mount Meru via the hair-raising Shark’s Fin. The three climbers overcome various obstacles, from a catastrophic avalanche to critical injury and addressing past climbing traumas. This picture serves up all the big mountain climbing excitement you want from a climbing film pristinely packaged, as always, by Chin. 

• Buy Meru on Amazon

6. Touching the Void (2003) 

In terms of cinematic delivery, Touching the Void has nothing on the previous five films, but it’s still a gripping account of the perils of rock climbing and everyone should watch it. Part documentary and part reenactment, Touching the Void tells the story of two British climbers – Joe Simpson and Simon Yates – who made the first ascent of the treacherous west face of Siula Grande in the Peruvian Andes. On the descent, while the two are tied together, Simpson breaks his leg, then a storm hits. Just when you think things can’t get any worse, Yates accidentally lowers his partner over the edge of a cliff and is left with two choices: stay tied together and wait to die or cut the rope. The unlikely events that ensue became a matter of controversy in the climbing community and will have you riding an emotional rollercoaster, despite the film’s low-budget production. 

• Buy Touching the Void on Amazon

7. The Last Mountain (2021) 

In 1995, one of the world’s best climbers, Alison Hargreaves, died on K2 at the age of 33. In 2019, her son Tom Ballard died in similar circumstances on Nanga Parbat. Director Chris Terrell followed the family for 25 years, from Alison’s ascent of Everest unsupported and without supplemental oxygen, to her daughter Kate’s 2020 journey back to the Himalayas to bid farewell to her brother. This film is quiet, compelling, deeply poignant and often heartbreaking as you watch the remaining family members reconcile love with loss. It leaves you with a sense that had these two climbers lived, they would have continued to stun us with their prowess. 

• Watch The Last Mountain on BBC iPlayer (UK only)

8. Valley Uprising (2014) 

After watching The Last Mountain, you might need a bit of cheering up, so it’s a good time to head back to Yosemite for a glimpse into the iconic dirtbag climbing scene that’s been thriving there for decades. Valley Uprising is about “a bunch of mad men trying to do new things” and portrays society’s dropouts (including an even younger Alex Honnold) who have been at the forefront of half a century of rock climbing counterculture. This fun picture gives a glimpse into the obsessiveness at the heart of rock climbers, their wild partying ways and reveals the friction between them and the National Parks Service.  

• Buy Valley Uprising on Amazon

9. 127 Hours (2010) 

The entry on our list of the best climbing films that isn’t a documentary is 127 hours, which is a dramatization of the book Between a Rock and a Hard Place by Aron Ralston. In 2003, Ralston went canyoneering in Utah alone, without telling anyone where he was going. He dislodged a boulder which trapped his hand and found himself stuck in a narrow slot canyon with a limited supply of water and, after five days and no sign of rescue, only two options. Choosing escape over certain death, this nauseating tale is certainly a testimony to the climber’s survival instinct, and serves as a good warning to others to practice climbing safety. Though we think the book is much better than the film – in fact, it made our list of best hiking books – James Franco’s portrayal of Ralston is entertaining enough, and the gory escape is a bit more palatable on screen than on the page. 

• Buy 127 Hours on Amazon

10. Mountain (2017) 

Another film from Sherpa director Jennifer Peedom, Mountain is filmed mostly by climber Renan Ozturk and narrated by Willem Dafoe and takes you on a dreamy journey of mostly unidentified high peaks around the world, delivering a dialogue on the different relationships humans have with mountains. The high point of this film is really the arresting high alpine cinematography and it’s perfect for late-night viewing when you just want to be transported up into the clouds without having to think too hard. 

• Buy Mountain on Amazon

There’s nothing terribly groundbreaking about documentaries that follow mountaineers breaking new ground anymore. In fact, with new climbing records being set seemingly every week and mountaineers attempting ever more daring routes, it’s hard to maintain the level of awe that you might have felt the first time you watched Touching the Void while for many of us, it’s difficult not compare every new record to Alex Honnold’s 2017 triumph on El Cap. But the new Netflix documentary 14 Peaks: Nothing Is Impossible is set to restore your sense of wonder in the mountaineering world, whether you’re a climber or not.

Released in late November, 14 Peaks follows climber Nirma “Nims” Purja in his 2019 quest to summit all 14 mountains over 8,000m in a single year. Born in rural Nepal and now British-based, 38-year-old Purja served six years with the Ghurkas, a Nepali branch of the British Army, before becoming the first Ghurka in history to be selected for British Special Forces, which requires superhuman strength and fearlessness and sends fighters like Purja into the world’s most dangerous regions. 

Project Possible 

Having survived gun battles on top secret missions, perhaps climbing mountains doesn’t seem so extreme, but then again, Purja’s expedition, which he named "Project Possible", begins on the world’s deadliest mountain, Annapurna in Nepal, where for every three people that make it to the summit, one dies trying. 

From there, he goes on to climb five other mountains in Nepal including Everest, Makalu and Lhotse. Next it’s onward to Pakistan for another four peaks including the treacherous K2  which has claimed the lives of some of the world’s best climbers including Alison Hargreaves and Nanga Parbat, which took her son Tom Ballard, before finishing up in Tibet. Needless to say, the vision sounds impossible, but Purja set out to prove the naysayers wrong.

"Who the hell is Nims Purja?"

There are three unusual factors in particular that stand out that make Purja's story all the more exceptional. First, Purja was a relatively unknown climber when he began his pursuit. Of course, that’s all changed in recent weeks and he’s secured himself a place in climbing history, but when he first set out, Free Solo director and climber Jimmy Chin, who appears in the film and seems to have a pretty good finger on the climbing pulse, was scratching his head.

“He was someone that no one had ever heard of. Everyone was asking, ‘Who the hell is Nims Purja?’” recalls Chin.

What makes this notable is that to complete such a mission, a great deal of funding is needed. You have to pay your team (and in this case, Purja had different teams for different missions), you need to purchase gear, you have to obtain visas and climbing permits and then there are the transportation costs which include not only getting to the Himalayas but in this case, frequent helicopter rides to get from one mountain to the next in such a short space of time. Simply put, mountaineering is expensive.

Investors are far more likely to back a famous climber with millions of Instagram followers and major sponsorship than a climber who appears to have little more than gumption. That Purja was able to raise such a large amount of money as an unknown is remarkable and, by his own admission, was more difficult than the climbing itself.

“Nothing is impossible” 

Second, there’s the sheer speed at which Purja completes his mission. At this point, it’s hardly a spoiler to tell you that not only does he succeed, he does so in an astounding seven months. Just for reference, the first person to summit all 14 peaks was Italian climber Reinhold Messner and it took him 16 years. That record had previously been cut down to seven years, but was still nowhere near Purja’s accomplishment. 

Watching the documentary, it’s hard to get a feel for how difficult it must have been only because Purja and his team make the climbing look so easy. Ordinarily, an expedition to any one of the mountains on Purja’s list would take a couple of months by the time you travel, train, acclimate and wait for a weather window. Climbing in the “death zone” (above 8,000m) takes an immense toll on the human body and requires a lot of recovery, if you even survive. Purja, on the other hand, seems to be virtually immune to the effects of extreme high altitude, at one point displaying off-the-chart VO2 max results that his trainer claims never to have seen the likes of before.

At times the team seems to get back to base camp only to resume climbing again before sunrise the following morning. In fact, they climb three of the world’s highest mountains in 48 hours and reach the last five summits in the span of a mere 12 days. Unbelievably, one of the peaks they climb hungover because they’ve been partying so hard the night before, and do it in a single push from base camp to summit which in and of itself is unheard of.

“Don’t be afraid to dream big. It doesn’t matter where you come from, you can show the world that nothing is impossible,” says Purja.

And yet, the experience is certainly not without struggle, from encountering and rescuing an injured climber from Annapurna the very morning after their summit, reluctant climbers fearing for their lives in the face of scaling K2, to family strife including Purja’s mother suffering severe health issues for the duration of the mission. By no means do you walk away from this film feeling that it was easy – just that these men contain never-before-seen levels of aptitude, courage and determination.

“This is about inspiring the human race” 

Third, and perhaps most importantly, is the obvious fact that Nims is Nepali. Nepali climbers have historically been snubbed by the media and the lack of support and protection they are given by their own government has been a point of contention and controversy for many years.

“On Everest the mountain is run by Sherpas. They work so hard to support the Westerners. They take a massive risk. Without their support, there wouldn’t be a climbing season,” reflects Purja.

As he points out in the film, the history of climbing the world’s highest peaks has been dominated by white and European climbers for the past 100 years, but they’ve almost exclusively been able to do so because of the support they receive from Nepali Sherpas. For every white climber who summits Everest, there may be multiple Sherpas carrying their gear, setting up lines and camp. 

While summiting a peak like Everest may be a single, crowning accomplishment in a white climber’s career, a single Sherpa has usually made multiple summits of Everest, with the record being 24 ascents set by Kami Rita Sherpa in 2019. Sherpas also make up one third of the deaths that occur on Everest. 

And yet, as far back as 1953 when Sherpa Tenzing Norgay stepped onto Everest’s summit alongside New Zealand’s Edmund Hillary, Sherpas have never received the same level of recognition as their white counterparts. This undoubtedly made it harder for Nims to acquire funding and permission, but it served as his primary motivation too.

“This is about inspiring the human race. The climbing community of Nepal has always been the pioneers of eight thousanders but they never got the respect they deserve.”

What seems certain after the release of this documentary is that this is about to change. Purja hasn’t only been successful in summiting the world’s highest peaks in record time, he’s shown the world the extraordinary endurance and perseverance that Nepalese climbers possess. What this hopefully means is more recognition, increased funding and better safety and respect for all Nepali climbers going forward.

The Kendal Mountain Festival is returning to the Lake District this weekend bringing over 200 speakers to what organizers are calling the world’s biggest social gathering for those who love the outdoors.

Festival organizers are welcoming outdoor enthusiasts back to the Cumbrian town beginning on Thursday 18 November for four days of speakers, screenings and clinics hosted by world-renowned mountaineers. 

This year, headlining speakers include Nirmal "Nims" Purja, who shares the European premiere of ‘14 Peaks: Nothing is Impossible’, a new film which follows his quest to summit all 14 of the world’s 8,000m peaks, extreme TV adventurer Aldo Kane with ‘tales from the edge’ including abseiling into an erupting volcano and rowing the Atlantic and Olympic climber Shauna Coxsey, with a preview screening of her new film ‘The Wall: Climbing for Gold’. 

Attendees can come in their hiking boots to participate in community walks, recover with screenings of films such as Jimmy Chin’s The Rescue and find free talks, top outdoor brands and live music at Basecamp Village.

Known as the UK’s largest and longest-running gathering of the outdoor community, the festival was founded in 1980 as the Kendal Mountaineering Film Festival and has grown over the last four decades to a large-scale event that attracts athletes, authors and visitors from around the world. This year’s festival will be a hybrid of in-person and online events – including a 10km trail run – allowing people to participate from afar.

The Kendal Mountain Festival takes place from Thursday 18 November to Sunday 21 November.