We all go to the mountains because there is some innate part of being human that seeks challenge and there is endless challenge to be found in our wild places. I’ve always seen mountains as a blank canvas that lets me be an artist by choosing my unique path when amongst them. It’s freedom in its purest and most simple form. But, like many things in life, what you originally set out to do isn’t always where you end up. It’s the unexpected adventures along the way that create the true magic. There’s so much more to this passion than just the climb or the ski, there are the human connections created along this journey that have been some of the deepest and most profound friendships of my life. There is also tragedy. The mountains are both majestic and fierce. They give so much and they take so much. It is with profound sadness, frustration and even anger that this week we have lost so much passion, kindness, ingenuity and unadulterated talent with the passing of these three human beings.

My heart goes out to the families and loved ones of David Lama, Hansjörg Auer and Jess Roskelley. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Hilaree Nelson
@HilareeNelson

More tributes to David Lama, Hansjörg Auer, and Jess Roskelley:

Conrad Anker’s Tribute

Jimmy Chin’s Tribute

Sasha Digiulian’s Tribute

Cory Richard’s Tribute

Keith Ladzinski’s Tribute

Chris Jerard’s Tribute