Here’s the part where I get real with you. Dave’s frostbitten toes are a permanent souvenir. He still jokes about it, but I saw his face drop when he talked about the debt. Most climbers don’t talk about the financial hangover. You’ll come home with killer photos, a story about a guy who “peak-bagged” next to you, and a credit card bill that looks like a ransom note.
The average cost of a dream? $50,000. The value of that dream? That’s between you and your bank account. But here’s a weird truth: no one I’ve met who made it to the summit regretted the cost. Well, one guy regretted forgetting his sunscreen, but that’s a different issue.
So, how much to climb Mount Everest? It’s a price tag that’s as high as the mountain itself—but if you’re asking, you already know the answer. Start saving now. And maybe buy some thermal socks. Your toes will thank you later.
