Jim Morrison first descent of Everest's Hornbein Couloir.
Jim Morrison first descent of Everest's Hornbein Couloir.

On October 15th, 2025, American mountaineer Jim Morrison completed the first ski descent of the notoriously challenging linkup of the Hornbein and Japanese Couloirs on Mount Everest’s North Face. While he completed the descent on his own, he was accompanied by 11 other climbers on his way up to the summit, including photographer and National Geographic Explorer Jimmy Chin who’s directing a documentary focused on the expedition alongside Chai Vasarhelyi.

It’s not clear when the entire documentary will be released, but National Geographic has released a first look at the historic descent, featuring some intense first-person and drone footage.

First Look: Jim Morrison Completes Historic Descent of Everest North Face | National Geographic

For anyone wondering, Morrison completed the descent on a pair of Black Crows skis, potentially the Camox Freebird based on the color and size. Beyond the skis it’s quite a bit more difficult to see any of the other gear, though someone with a more well-trained eye than me might be able to figure out the boots and bindings.

You can read more about this historic first descent here.

Nolan Deck is a writer for Unofficial Networks, covering skiing and outdoor adventure. After growing up and skiing in Maine, he moved to the Denver area for college where he continues to live and work...