-- 50 behind-the-climb stories

-- 50 profiles of contemporary elite climbers

-- 50 complete route descriptions, many never published before

-- Over 100 spectacular full-color photos

In a book that promises to become legendary, author Mark Kroese gets fifty of the most accomplished climbers of this generation to reveal their all-time favorite climbs. Renowned climber Ron Kauk talks about one of his favorite climbs, the Middle Rock Traverse, Middle Cathedral Rock in Yosemite National Park. "Coming here always regrounds me, " says Kauk. "In twenty-five years it hasn't really changed. It's a constant reflection of history." More inside scoop from Roxanna Brock, Mark Twight, Jared Ogden, Tommy Caldwell and other great climbers proves a riveting read.

Each story includes a climber profile, garnered from hours of fascinating, thought-provoking, and often downright fun interviews. The climbers share personal anecdotes and offer their views on everything from ethics to style to training techniques. These well-crafted profiles give the reader a real sense of today's leading climbers.

From Newfoundland to Yosemite, Mexico to British Columbia, the favorite routes offer excellent climbing, stunning views, wild exposure, or spectacular summits. Each includes a summary, description of the approach, the route itself, and the descent, along with first-ascent information, ratings, time required, recommended equipment, best season, special considerations, and references.