Born: December 13, 1972 (Seattle, Washington)
Died: September 26, 2022 (Manaslu, Nepal)
Biography:
Hilaree Nelson (December 13, 1972 – September 26, 2022) was an American ski mountaineer who left an indelible mark on the world of adventure sports. Known for her extraordinary achievements and fearless spirit, Nelson became a trailblazer in the male-dominated field of ski mountaineering. Her daring exploits on some of the world’s highest peaks brought her widespread admiration and cemented her legacy as one of the most accomplished explorers of her time.
Born and raised in Seattle, Washington, Nelson developed a love for skiing from a young age. At the age of three, she hit the slopes at Stevens Pass, igniting a lifelong passion for the sport. Her early experiences on the mountain would shape her future and set her on a path towards greatness.
Nelson’s career in ski mountaineering took off when she joined the 2012 Montana State University Everest Education Expedition. It was during this expedition that she made history by becoming the first woman to summit two 8000-meter peaks, Everest and Lhotse, in a single 24-hour push. This remarkable feat showcased her physical strength, mental fortitude, and unwavering determination.
Throughout her career, Nelson fearlessly embarked on numerous expeditions, conquering uncharted territories and pushing the boundaries of what was considered possible. She achieved many firsts, including making the first ski descent of the Dream Line, the Lhotse Couloir, from the summit. This descent on one of the world’s most challenging slopes solidified her reputation as a true pioneer in the world of extreme skiing.
Nelson’s accomplishments extended beyond the mountains. She served as The North Face global athletic team captain, representing a brand that aligns with her core values of perseverance and exploration. Her exceptional achievements earned her recognition from prestigious organizations such as Men’s Journal, which named her one of The 25 Most Adventurous Women of the Past 25 Years. She was also honored as one of National Geographic’s 2018 Adventurers of the Year, further solidifying her place among the greatest explorers of her generation.
In addition to her exploits, Nelson was a passionate advocate for gender equality and empowerment. She played an active role in The North Face and Girl Scouts of the USA’s She Moves Mountains campaign, which aimed to encourage young girls to pursue outdoor adventures and break societal barriers.
Tragically, on September 26, 2022, Nelson’s remarkable journey came to a sudden and devastating end. While skiing with her partner Jim Morrison, she was caught in a small avalanche on Manaslu in Nepal. The avalanche resulted in a fall of over 1,800 meters from the summit, claiming her life. Nelson’s passing sent shockwaves through the mountaineering community and beyond, leaving an immense void that will never be filled.
Hilaree Nelson’s legacy as a fearless and accomplished ski mountaineer will forever inspire generations to come. Her unwavering determination, passion for exploration, and trailblazing spirit made her an icon in the world of adventure sports. Though her time on this earth was cut short, her impact on society and women’s history will continue to resonate for years to come.
Awards:
– European Women’s Extreme Skiing Champion (1996)