Watch Return to Everest/Surviving Everest

Return to Everest/Surviving Everest is a National Geographic show that follows two different teams of climbers as they traverse the unforgiving terrain of Mount Everest. The documentary is set against the backdrop of the 2019 climbing season during which 11 people lost their lives on the world's highest mountain, making it one of the deadliest seasons in recent history.

The first team consists of experienced climbers who are returning to Everest to conquer the mountain once again. Led by veteran climber, Garrett Madison, this team is determined to succeed where others have failed before them. Madison himself holds the record for the most summits without oxygen of any Western climber and has guided over 50 climbers to the summit. He leads a group of climbers who are also no strangers to the mountain and have all attempted to summit before.

The show takes viewers through the grueling process of preparing to climb Everest, from selecting the right gear to acclimating to high altitude conditions, to planning the ascent. With each mountain he's climbed, Madison has had to adapt to new technology, techniques and conditions. He uses his knowledge and experience to put together a team that's more prepared than any other prior to the climb.

In contrast, the second team is made up of novice climbers, each with their own personal reasons for attempting the summit. Unlike the seasoned veterans of Madison's team, this crew is made up of amateur climbers with little to no high-altitude experience. With the guidance of Russell Brice, a veteran Everest guide, and his team of Sherpas, these climbers will need more than just strength and determination to survive on the mountain.

The documentary explores the sometimes harsh realities of mountaineering, with unpredictable weather patterns, high altitude sickness, oxygen deprivation, and physical exhaustion all posing a threat to the climbers' lives. Through both teams' experiences, viewers witness the risks that come with climbing in such extreme environments and the consequences that can come with pushing past the limits of both the body and the mountain. The show is a vivid depiction of the indescribable beauty and danger of Everest as well as a testament to the incredible tenacity and determination of human beings.

As the teams make their way up, they face some of the harshest terrain and most hostile weather patterns imaginable. Desolate landscapes, freezing temperatures, and high-altitude sickness are just some of the obstacles that stand in their way. Despite the extreme nature of their efforts, the climbers have a single goal in mind: to reach the summit of Mount Everest. Accompanied by breathtaking views of the highest mountain range in the world, the show provides a unique insight into the struggles of the teams.

Return to Everest/Surviving Everest is an unforgettable exploration of the resilience of the human body and spirit. It showcases some of the most extreme challenges that mountaineers face in a way that is both awe-inspiring and humbling. Viewers are left with a newfound respect for the climbers who risk everything in their quest to conquer the world's highest peak. The emotional roller coaster of the journey is captured brilliantly, as both teams celebrate their victories and cope with their losses throughout the season.

Overall, Return to Everest/Surviving Everest is a poignant and gripping documentary. The show follows the climbers on their dangerous journey as they attempt to reach the summit, giving viewers an intimate look at the physical and emotional challenges that they encounter along the way. Through stunning visuals and powerful stories of perseverance, the show inspires and captivates with each episode. It's a must-watch for any fan of extreme sports or for anyone seeking a deeper appreciation for the human spirit.