As we close out 2025, I caught up with Garrett Maddison, founder of Madison Mountaineering, for a rare moment while he was home in the Seattle area. Garrett summited all of the Seven Summits (Messner List) in 2025, plus had some interesting times on Cho Oyu, watched one of his teams struggle, like the others, on K2, and is actively guiding on Vinson. We discussed all this, including what to expect for Everest in 2026, with the more expensive permit fees, new requirements for Everest applicants from China, and proposals from Nepal.
You can follow Madison on their website, Facebook, and IG.
Climb On!
Alan
Memories are Everything
The Podcast on alanarnette.com
Interview with Garrett Madison
You can listen to my podcasts on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Breaker, Pocket Casts, RadioPublic, Anchor, and more. Just search for “alan arnette” on your favorite podcast platform.
Hello from Alan Arnette
Welcome! Summit Coach is a consulting service that aids climbers worldwide in achieving their goals through personalized consulting services rooted in Alan Arnette’s 30 years of high-altitude mountaineering experience and decades as a business executive. He became the oldest American to summit K2 on his 58th birthday. We have supported many climbers in reaching their goals, from a Colorado 14er to Aconcagua, Denali, Cotopaxi, Everest, and even K2. Please visit the Summit Coach website for information on our affordable prices, comprehensive offerings, and to schedule your free call.
