Extreme climbs-climbs in which the consequences are serious, the determination and courage of the climbers reaches far beyond the casual, and successful ascents are often preceded by frequent, unsuccessful attempts. With evocative words and heart-stopping photographs, Extreme Rock & Ice showcases 25 of the greatest extreme climbs of the past quarter-century. The climbs featured-including the most risky of rock, ice, big-wall, and high-mountain routes-are at the very cutting edge of the sport.

Portraying some of the wildest and most beautiful parts of the world-from Patagonia to the Himalaya-and providing insight into the character of the men and women who have devised new and untried climbs, this collection is sure to awe and inspire.

Involved in climbing for over thirty years, Garth Hattingh has climbed extensively throughout the world. He is the author of Top Climbs of the World and The Climber's Handbook.