NATIONAL BOOK
Beyond The Vertical

Layton Kor stands as one of the most influential figures in American mountaineering. Recognized as the leading rock climber of his generation, his pioneering ascents—both free and aid—set new standards for technical difficulty. His impact on climbing remains unparalleled, with a legacy of first ascents that few can match.

In Beyond the Vertical, Kor shares his own account of these groundbreaking and often high-stakes climbs. His narrative is complemented by contributions from some of the most renowned climbers of the 1960s and 1970s, including Royal Robbins, Fred Beckey, Pat Ament, Chris Bonington, Steve Roper, and Huntley Ingalls, offering their firsthand perspectives on ascents made alongside Kor.

Many of Kor’s routes have become legendary—The Naked Edge in Eldorado Canyon, the Diamond on Longs Peak, the Salathé Wall on El Capitan, and the North Face of the Eiger, among others. Written in a direct and engaging style and featuring striking historical photographs, this book is an essential read for climbers and adventure enthusiasts alike.