Breaking Trail

Arlene Blum, mountaineering pioneer, is best known for leading the first American—and all-women's—ascent of Annapurna. She also led the first women's team up Mt. McKinley and was the first American woman to attempt Mt. Everest. She's also a scientist, and holds a doctorate in biophysical chemistry. But wait, there's more: read Arlene's full bio here.

Twenty-five years ago she wrote Annapurna: A Woman's Place, about her historic Himalayan expedition. Now she has written a new book, Breaking Trail: A Climbing Life, a memoir of her life among the mountains. The book includes short vignettes about her upbringing, stories of her mountain treks, and tales from her scientific endeavors. I'm betting Arlene is a fascinating speaker and I'm sure her books are quite captivating. Here's her upcoming event schedule. Oh, and ladies, be sure to check out the classic tees they still sell — a most creative and effective fundraising tool! Sales of these tees helped raise the $80K needed to finance the Annapurna climb.

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