Matty McNair facts for kids

Matty L McNair is an amazing American explorer who loves adventures in cold places! She was born in Pennsylvania, United States. For a while, she lived in Iqaluit, Nunavut, Canada, which is on Baffin Island. Matty is known for her incredible journeys to the North and South Poles, often being the first or helping others achieve big goals.

Matty's Amazing Expeditions

Matty McNair has achieved many incredible things as an explorer. She is especially famous for her trips to the Earth's coldest regions.

First All-Female North Pole Expedition

In 1997, Matty led a very special trip. It was the first time an all-female team reached the Geographic North Pole. This was a huge accomplishment, showing that women could lead and succeed in extreme environments.

Crossing Ellesmere Island

In the year 2000, Matty led another expedition. This time, she crossed Ellesmere Island in Canada. They traveled through a challenging area called the Sverdrup Pass.

Journeys to the South Pole

Matty McNair has visited the South Pole more than once!

• In 2003 and 2004, she led two expeditions where they skied all the way to the South Pole.
• Then, in 2004 and 2005, she completed another ski trip to the South Pole. This time, she did it without outside help, meaning they carried all their supplies. Her children, Sarah and Eric, joined her on this trip. They became the youngest people ever to ski to the South Pole!

Greenland Ice Cap Adventure

In 2003, Matty went on an exciting journey across the Greenland Ice Cap. She traveled with her children, Sarah and Eric. They used ski-kites to help them move across the ice. They also had dog sleds to support their journey.

Race to the North Magnetic Pole

In 2007, Matty took part in a unique race. She drove a dogsled with Richard Hammond, a famous TV presenter. They were racing to the 1996 location of the North Magnetic Pole. This adventure was part of a TV show called Top Gear: Polar Special. Even though her team was doing great, the race ended early for them. The other competitors, who were in trucks, reached the destination first.

First American to Ski Both Poles

Matty McNair holds a special record. She is the first American person to ski to both the North Pole and the South Pole. This shows her incredible skill and determination as an explorer.

Books by Matty McNair

Matty McNair has also shared her adventures in a book.

• On Thin Ice: A Woman's Journey to the North Pole (1999)