Catalan Kilian Jornet set the record for the fast ascent and descent of the Grand Teton on Sunday, August 12. He made the round trip from Lupine Meadows to the summit and back in 2 hours and 54 minutes. The climb covers 7,428 feet of vertical, and 12.5 miles. The previous record was 3 hours and 6 minutes, set by Bryce Thatcher in 1983.
For comparison, people typically take two days to climb the Grand, and carry ropes and climbing equipment. Killian brought nothing but his own hands and feet – no water, little food, no gear.
This video shows Kilian Jornet and Anton Krupicka making a speed ascent of the Grand on July 31 in 3:23 round trip. This is not Kilian’s record setting climb, but it gives you an idea of what it takes.
For more on Kilian Jornet, check out his Facebook page. When he’s not setting new records on the Grand Teton, he happens to be a world class ski mountaineer and trail runner.