Two out of three climbers trying to scale Everest succeed on their first attempt
TWO out of three climbers trying to scale Everest succeed on their first attempt — double the rate of three decades ago.
Yet death rates during attempts on the world’s highest peak have remained the same at about one in 100 climbers, research has revealed.
The improved success rate is despite the increasing inexperience of those aiming for the 29,000ft peak and growing numbers slowing progress through its infamous “death zone”.
Researcher Professor Raymond Huey, of the University of Washington, said: “It is still a very dangerous mountain, way above the limits of what most people can do.”
Everest draws 500-plus climbers each spring hoping to exploit a small window of favourable conditions on the rugged Himalayan range.
From 1990 to 2005, more than 2,200 first-timers attempted the climb.
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The figure rose to more than 3,600 from 2006 to 2019.
Prof Huey added: “By analysing the data, we can provide accurate information on the chances of success and on the chances of dying, helping climbers make an informed decision about whether to attempt this great peak.”
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