Father-Son Duo discuss Record-setting Climb to Summit of Matterhorn
CNN’s recent interview with Joe Evermore and his 11-year-old son Sam captured a remarkable story of perseverance, preparation, and a history-making climb. The father-son duo had just returned from Switzerland after successfully reaching the summit of the Matterhorn—one of the most iconic and challenging peaks in the Alps. In doing so, Sam became the youngest climber ever to reach the top, setting a new record that has inspired mountaineers and non-climbers alike.
The conversation opened with Joe describing the origins of their journey. He explained that their family had long shared a love of hiking and mountaineering, with Sam showing an unusual interest in climbing from a very young age. What began as short local hikes quickly escalated to longer and more technically challenging expeditions. By age nine, Sam had already completed several notable climbs in the Rockies and the Andes. Joe stressed that this wasn’t about “chasing records” but rather about encouraging Sam’s natural enthusiasm while making sure safety always came first.
Sam, speaking with the mix of humility and excitement typical of his age, recalled the moment he first saw a photograph of the Matterhorn. He described it as looking “like a mountain from a dream,” and said that ever since, he had wanted to stand on its peak. In preparation, father and son spent over a year training for the climb. Their regimen included endurance hikes, technical rock climbing, altitude acclimatization, and cold-weather training. Joe also emphasized that they consulted with Swiss guides, physicians, and child sports physiologists to ensure that Sam’s age and physical development would not be compromised by the rigors of high-altitude climbing.
The interview moved into the specifics of the climb itself. The Matterhorn, with its steep faces and unpredictable weather, has long been regarded as one of the most treacherous mountains in the world. Joe described the route they took, starting in Zermatt and ascending via the Hörnli Ridge, the most classic—though still extremely difficult—path to the summit. They were accompanied by an experienced Swiss guide who had summited the Matterhorn over 50 times.
Sam vividly recalled waking up at 3:00 a.m. on summit day, eating a quick breakfast, and stepping into the darkness with his headlamp. He said the first few hours were the hardest, climbing in cold wind with the weight of his gear. But as dawn broke, the sunlight lit up the surrounding peaks, giving him a surge of energy. The most challenging part for him was the final push to the summit, where exposure and technical climbing demanded total focus.
Joe recounted the emotional moment they reached the peak. At 4,478 meters above sea level, the air was thin and the views stretched into Italy and France. Sam planted a small flag he had carried with him, symbolizing not only his achievement but also his gratitude to the many people who had supported and encouraged him.
The interview also touched on the physical and mental demands of the climb. Sam admitted there were moments when he wanted to turn back, but he drew strength from his father’s encouragement and his own determination. Joe pointed out that, while climbing is often seen as a physical challenge, it’s just as much about mental resilience—something Sam has shown in abundance.
CNN’s hosts also asked about the response to their achievement. Joe said they had been overwhelmed by messages from around the world, many from parents inspired to take their kids on outdoor adventures. Sam said his classmates were “pretty amazed,” and joked that it was the first time he had ever gotten so much attention for something outside of school.
The discussion concluded with the Evermores sharing what’s next. While they have no immediate plans for another record-breaking climb, both father and son want to continue exploring the outdoors together. Joe reiterated that the key takeaway from their journey is that with preparation, safety, and passion, extraordinary goals can be achieved—no matter your age.
Sam, grinning, summed it up simply: “It’s not about being the youngest. It’s about loving the climb.”
