Eric Larsen facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Eric Larsen
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| Born | |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Polar adventurer, expedition guide, dog musher, educator, author, and photographer |
| Known for | Polar Exploration |
Eric Larsen is an amazing American adventurer. He is famous for his incredible journeys to the North Pole, the South Pole, and even Mount Everest, the world's highest mountain. He has explored some of the coldest and most challenging places on Earth.
Early Life and Education
Eric Larsen was born in 1971 in Cedarburg, Wisconsin. Before becoming a full-time explorer, he worked as a guide and teacher. He taught at environmental learning centers like Wolf Ridge and Eagle Bluff. These experiences helped him learn about nature and prepare for his future adventures.
Incredible Expeditions
Eric Larsen has completed many challenging expeditions. He often tries to raise awareness about important environmental issues, like climate change.
South Pole Speed Attempt - 2018
In December 2018, Eric tried to set a new speed record. He wanted to travel alone and without help from Hercules Inlet to the South Pole in Antarctica. However, he faced very unusual weather and snow conditions. After three weeks, he had to stop his attempt.
First Ascent of Jabou Ri - 2015
On September 16, 2015, Eric Larsen and his teammate Ryan Waters made history. They were the first people to climb the peak of Jabou Ri in Nepal. This is a mountain in the Himalayas, and the area had only recently been opened for climbers.
Last North Expedition - 2014
In March 2014, Eric Larsen and Ryan Waters crossed the Arctic Ocean. They traveled from Northern Ellesmere Island all the way to the geographic North Pole. Eric has said that this might be the very last time anyone can make this journey. This is because the ice is melting so quickly due to climate change.
Cycle South Expedition - 2012
In December 2012, Eric Larsen tried to be the first person to ride a bicycle to the South Pole. He started from Hercules Inlet and rode 175 miles. Even though he had to turn back, he set a record. He traveled the most miles ever by bicycle in Antarctica!
Save the Poles - 2009/2010
This was an amazing challenge! Over 365 days, Eric Larsen completed expeditions to the North Pole, the South Pole, and Mount Everest. He is the first person in history to reach all three "poles" in just one year. This incredible feat showed his dedication to exploration and conservation.
One World Expedition - 2006
In 2006, Eric Larsen and his teammate Lonnie Dupre completed a unique North Pole expedition. They started from Cape Discovery, Ellesmere Island. After 62 days on the ice, they reached the North Pole on July 2. This was the first successful North Pole trip done in a "summer" style.
Books and Documentaries
Eric Larsen has shared his adventures and important messages through books and films.
On Thin Ice
This book tells the story of Eric Larsen and Ryan Waters' 2014 "Last North Expedition." They traveled nearly 500 miles across the melting Arctic Ocean. The book highlights how the Arctic ice is shrinking due to climate change. This makes their journey possibly the last human-powered trek to the North Pole.
Melting - Last Race to the Pole
This documentary shows Eric Larsen and Ryan Waters' dangerous journey to the North Pole. The Arctic is warming much faster than other parts of the world. This means the chance to cross the ice to the North Pole is quickly disappearing. The film shows their risky attempt to reach the pole before it's too late.
Health Journey
In January 2021, Eric Larsen was diagnosed with a serious illness called cancer. After a year of intense treatments, including chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery, he has recovered. He is now healthy and has no evidence of the disease.
