Jon Krakauer Admits ‘I Wish I Had Never Gone to That Mountain’ as “Into Thin Air” Marks 30 Years with New Edition (Exclusive)

As the 30th anniversary of the tragic 1996 Mount Everest disaster approaches, renowned author Jon Krakauer reflects on the profound impact that fateful day had on his life, mental health, and his views on high-altitude climbing. In a recent interview with *PEOPLE*, Krakauer discussed the ongoing effects of the disaster and the recent release of a revised edition of his bestselling book, *Into Thin Air*, which includes an updated foreword addressing the current state of Everest climbing.

Krakauer, now 72, candidly admitted that the Everest expedition was a decision he regrets. He explained, “It’s probably the one thing in my life that I really regret. I wish I had never gone to that mountain.” This admission underscores the emotional weight he carries as a result of the harrowing events that unfolded during that climb, which became emblematic of the perils associated with extreme mountaineering.

In April 1996, Krakauer was covering an expedition for *Outdoor Magazine* when catastrophic weather conditions altered the course for several climbing teams. As members of Rob Hall’s Adventure Consultants and Scott Fischer’s Mountain Madness descended from the “death zone,” where oxygen levels are dangerously low, a sudden storm claimed the lives of eight climbers, including Hall and Fischer themselves. Krakauer’s account of this perilous experience, described in *Into Thin Air*, has become a poignant reminder of the risks faced by those who attempt to summit the world’s highest peak.

“I knew it was a bad idea… but it was this dream. It was Mount Everest,” Krakauer reflected on his motivations for undertaking the expedition. The unexpected storm forced climbers to battle exhaustion and dangerously low oxygen levels, ultimately leading to a series of critical decisions that had dire consequences.

The psychological toll of that day has lingered for Krakauer, manifesting in what he would later understand as post-traumatic stress disorder. He recalled, “I was not in a good place… initially, I wouldn’t acknowledge or didn’t even know why I had PTSD.” As the years have passed, he has gradually come to terms with the events that transpired, although he admits they continue to shape his identity as a writer and an advocate for responsible climbing practices.

Every year, on May 10—the anniversary of the storm—Krakauer feels a familiar knot in his stomach as the memories come flooding back. He penned an article shortly after his return home from Nepal, hoping the act of writing would provide some therapeutic release, but it didn’t afford him the closure he sought. “I had to write this,” he explained, “It wasn’t just a simple task to tick off my list.”

Krakauer’s reflections on his presence during the tragic events have led him to consider his role in the decisions made by fellow climbers that day. He likened his presence to the Heisenberg principle in physics, stating, “My presence in the experiment affected the outcome.” Nonetheless, he emphasised that the disaster was the result of a complex set of circumstances rather than any single point of failure.

Now, decades later, Krakauer is keen to share his insights gained through time and reflection in the newly revised edition of *Into Thin Air*. “30 years on, I have more perspective… I’m not as emotional. I have less PTSD than I had,” he remarked. While he still finds joy in climbing, he acknowledges that his approach has changed since that fateful day.

The updated edition not only provides Krakauer with an opportunity to revisit the narrative with fresh eyes but also allows him to address corrections and updates that he deems necessary. “I’m honoured and glad they’re coming out with this new edition,” he said, expressing his desire to clarify misconceptions that may have arisen over time.

The thirty years since the incident have witnessed a significant shift in the perception of Everest climbing, particularly as the mountain has become increasingly commercialised. Krakauer observed that despite the growth in climbing infrastructure and advancements in technology, the inherent dangers of the climb remain unchanged. He expressed concern that the influx of inexperienced climbers and the rise of extreme tourism have heightened the risk for all.

“The commodification, the commercialization of Mount Everest was not a good idea,” he stated, lamenting that he initially hoped the tragedy would signal an end to the perils of guiding on Everest. Instead, he has observed a surge in climbers attempting the summit, raising fears that another mass casualty event is likely.

Krakauer argued for the implementation of stricter regulations to ensure climbers are properly prepared before taking on Everest. “The government has proposed regulations… Everyone will be required to climb a 23,000-foot peak before they’re allowed to get an Everest permit,” he said, recognising this as a positive step toward mitigating risks associated with the climb.

As he looks back on the anniversary of the disaster, Krakauer admits he still grapples with unresolved emotions. “I still don’t have any closure,” he confessed, though he acknowledges that he has become more forgiving of both himself and others involved. The 30th anniversary edition of *Into Thin Air* offers not only a revisitation of a pivotal moment in climbing history but also an opportunity for both Krakauer and readers to reflect on the complexities of ambition, tragedy, and human resilience. This updated version is now available in bookstores and online platforms.