Above the Snow Line

Clinton Thomas Dent's "Above the Snow Line" captures the golden age of mountaineering through vivid sketches and thrilling accounts from expeditions between 1870 and 1880. As Vice President of the Alpine Club, Dent brings unparalleled expertise and intimate knowledge to his narratives of alpine adventure, chronicling the evolution of climbing from a daring pursuit to a widespread passion. This classic mountaineering memoir blends practical wisdom with captivating storytelling, documenting expeditions across the Swiss Alps including legendary peaks like the Rothhorn and challenging ascents of lesser-known summits. Dent's elegant prose captures not only the technical challenges of high-altitude climbing but also the camaraderie, humor, and human drama unfolding on snow-covered slopes. He explores the transformation of mountaineering culture during this pivotal era, examining how the sport evolved from the preserve of elite adventurers to an increasingly popular pursuit attracting climbers of varying abilities. With original engravings by the renowned mountaineer Edward Whymper, "Above the Snow Line" transports readers to a world of alpine grandeur and Victorian adventure. Dent's observations on mountain "form," hidden crevasses, and the philosophy of high-altitude exploration remain remarkably relevant today. Perfect for history enthusiasts, mountaineering aficionados, and anyone captivated by tales of exploration and endurance, this audiobook offers a window into the romance and reality of climbing during its most transformative period.