Watch Everest: 50 Years on the Mountain

Everest: 50 Years on the Mountain is a spectacular documentary produced by National Geographic to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the first ascent of Mount Everest. The show takes viewers on a journey through the history of the mountain, highlighting the triumphs and tragedies that have occurred on its slopes over the decades.

Narrated by famed mountaineer and Everest summiter David Breashears, the documentary combines stunning footage of the mountain with interviews from some of the most influential people in mountaineering history. Viewers will hear from legendary climbers such as Sir Edmund Hillary, Reinhold Messner, and Doug Scott, as well as survivors of some of the deadliest Everest disasters.

The show begins with a brief overview of the mountain's geography and history, including its importance to the local Sherpa people. From there, viewers are taken through a chronology of the most significant events in Everest's history. This includes the first successful ascent by Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay in 1953, as well as the first American ascent by Jim Whittaker in 1963.

In addition to these triumphs, the documentary also explores some of the more tragic events that have occurred on Everest. Viewers will learn about the 1996 disaster that claimed the lives of eight climbers, including experienced mountaineers such as Rob Hall and Scott Fischer. The show also covers the 1970 avalanche that killed six Sherpas and the 2015 earthquake that triggered a massive avalanche that killed 19 people.

Throughout the documentary, viewers will gain a sense of the physical and mental challenges of climbing Everest. The show explores the physical toll that the mountain takes on climbers, as well as the extreme weather conditions that they must endure. Viewers will also hear firsthand accounts from climbers who have experienced altitude sickness, frostbite, and other ailments while attempting to summit the mountain.

One of the most compelling aspects of Everest: 50 Years on the Mountain is its focus on the people who have climbed the mountain. The show features interviews with climbers from all backgrounds, including women, Sherpas, and disabled climbers. Through these interviews, viewers will gain a sense of the personal motivations and challenges that drive climbers to attempt such a difficult feat.

Another highlight of the documentary is its stunning footage of the mountain itself. Viewers will be treated to sweeping shots of Everest's snow-capped peaks and glaciers, as well as smaller details such as the ice formations on the Khumbu Icefall. The show also features footage of climbers making their way up the mountain, providing a sense of the scale and danger of the climb.

Overall, Everest: 50 Years on the Mountain is a must-see documentary for anyone interested in mountaineering or adventure travel. The show offers a comprehensive overview of the history and culture of Everest, as well as a vivid depiction of the physical and mental challenges of climbing the mountain. Whether you're a seasoned mountaineer or a casual viewer, you won't want to miss this breathtaking look at one of the world's most awe-inspiring natural wonders.