1966day.year
John Harlin
(1935 - 1966)
American mountaineer and pilot
American mountaineer and pilot
American mountaineer and former Air Force pilot who pioneered American routes on the north face of the Eiger.
Born in 1935, Harlin served as a United States Air Force pilot before turning to mountaineering.
He led expeditions in the Alps and is best known for tackling the Eiger’s treacherous north face in 1966.
During his ascent, a fixed rope broke and he fell to his death, tragically cutting his career short.
His pioneering efforts inspired a generation of climbers and established new routes that bear his name.
His son later completed the Harlin Route on the Eiger, honoring his father’s legacy.
1966
John Harlin