Jackson Gutierrez
Imagine yourself as a novice alpinist, poised for a journey of discovery, opening Freedom of the Hills for the very first time. Or picture yourself sitting by the fire in a cozy mountain lodge, captivated by stories of Sherpa and Balti climbers in Bernadette McDonald's Alpine Rising. Books are powerful tools, teaching skills to unlock new landscapes and experiences. They can also be an adventure in themselves, transporting readers to distant summits.
These are the kinds of experiences that Mountaineers Books has fostered for generations. More than just a publisher, Mountaineers Books is a gateway to adventure, a source of inspiration, and a champion for the natural world. As a mission-driven nonprofit, Mountaineers Books embodies our shared values — leading innovation in outdoor education, engaging a vibrant community of outdoor enthusiasts, and advocating on behalf of the natural world — by publishing essential guidebooks, compelling narratives, and illuminating publications that deepen our connection to the landscapes we cherish.
Connecting to place through publishing
Our commitment to inspiring adventure and advocating on behalf of the natural world through publishing is rooted in a deep connection to place. This connection begins with an understanding of the shared experiences we have in the landscapes that define us. From the Pacific Northwest's rugged coastlines to the Cascades' towering peaks, Mountaineers Books seeks out stories rooted in our community that explore diverse environments and reflect the outdoor opportunities that bring us together.
Whether through practical guides like the popular Urban Trails series that helps readers discover hidden gems in our backyards or personal narratives like Graham Zimmerman's A Fine Line that explores the complexities of a life intertwined with mountains, Mountaineers Books amplifies voices that arise from and speak for places they know, places they love, and places that have shaped them. Each book offers more than just information; it shares stories that inspire us to expand our relationship with the natural world and motivate us to protect it. These books become companions on our journeys, encouraging us to explore, protect, and appreciate the places we hold dear.
Various Mountaineers Books titles.
Publishing with purpose
Being a nonprofit publisher allows Mountaineers Books to prioritize mission over profit. Unlike commercial publishers driven by the bottom line, we can ensure that important stories and knowledge reach the people who need them most. Imagine a literary landscape without Fred Beckey's Cascade Alpine Guides, a cornerstone of mountaineering in the Pacific Northwest, or without Paul Bannick’s Owl, whose stunning photography prompts urgent conversations around conservation. These essential works (often overlooked by commercial publishers) are championed by our publishing house, allowing us to embody The Mountaineers core values of adventure, advocacy, community, volunteerism, and education. Our unique ability to publish mission-driven stories impacts the outdoor community in profound ways and ensures that empowering books remain accessible to everyone.
Empowering authors, inspiring change
As an award-winning and world-renowned publisher, Mountaineers Books amplifies vital voices in the outdoor and conservation communities. By supporting authors passionate about these topics, we ensure that important stories reach a wider audience. This support extends beyond the publication world, standing up for causes such as protecting endangered species, advocating for public lands, and promoting sustainable outdoor practices. Mountaineers Books commitment to elevating diverse perspectives and telling stories that inspire positive change is evident in our work with authors.
“As an author who has had the privilege of working with Mountaineers Books, I can personally speak to their exceptional expertise and their eye for high-impact, relatable stories from both the wildest corners of the world and the natural spaces closer to home. Their team is remarkably talented, and their dedication to fostering a deeper connection between people and the outdoors is unparalleled. By amplifying diverse voices and promoting stewardship, they inspire adventure and ignite action to protect and preserve our wild places. I’m proud to support their work and the critical role they play in enriching our understanding and appreciation of the natural world.”
– Graham Zimmerman
A legacy of education and conservation
The impact of Mountaineers Books ripples through the outdoor community in tangible ways. With over 650 titles in print, we’ve helped countless individuals explore the mountains, forests, and waterways of the Pacific Northwest and beyond. Last year alone, Mountaineers Books sold and distributed over 475,000 books. Additionally, Mountaineers Books titles have been used as a resource by local and national leaders, playing a paramount role in inspiring conservation legislation such as the EXPLORE Act.
Benefiting everyone from seasoned explorers to those just beginning their outdoor journey, the impact of Mountaineers Books resonates throughout the entire outdoor community. Our books equip and inspire people to connect with nature and ensure that everyone in our community can see themselves reflected in the stories we tell. By supporting Mountaineers Books through book purchases and donations, you become part of our legacy of adventuring with purpose and directly contribute to our mission of inspiring outdoor connection, conservation, and appreciation of our natural world.
SUPPORT MOUNTAINEERS BOOKS AND GET YOUR NAME IN AN UPCOMING BOOK
We’re thrilled to announce an exciting opportunity for you to support our mission. Award-winning author and photographer Paul Bannick is set to release his newest work, Woodpecker: A Year in the Life of North American Woodpeckers, later this year, and we’re offering a unique chance to have your name included in this remarkable publication. With a gift of $250 or more, your name (or a name of your choosing) will be listed in the acknowledgments section of the new book.
Getting a name printed in a book is a great way to leave a lasting impression and legacy, whether for yourself or in honor of someone else. For more information, visit mountaineers.org/donate/support-books.
This article originally appeared in our spring 2025 issue of Mountaineer magazine. To view the original article in magazine form and read more stories from our publication, visit our magazine archive.
