Richard McGowan facts for kids

Richard "Dick" McGowan (born July 12, 1933 – died February 27, 2007) was an American explorer, mountaineer, and business leader. He helped create the modern adventure travel industry, which is all about exciting trips to wild places.

Dick McGowan is famous for his Mount Everest expedition in 1955. During this trip, he climbed the dangerous Khumbu Ice Fall. This made him the first American to ever step foot on Mount Everest.

He also played a big part in creating better outdoor gear. He was the very first employee at REI, a well-known outdoor equipment company. Later, he owned stores called The Alpine Hut that sold climbing and ski gear. From 1976 to 1992, he was a leader at Mountain Travel, a company that organized adventure trips.

What Did Dick McGowan Explore?

Dick McGowan went on many amazing trips and climbs. He was part of 11 big expeditions.

Climbing Mount Everest

In 1955, he joined an international team on Mount Everest. Even though his team did not reach the very top, Dick was the first American to climb onto the mountain itself.

First Climbs on Big Mountains

He was the first to climb several major peaks. These included mountains in Alaska, Washington, Canada's Yukon, and even K-1 in Pakistan's Karakorum mountain range.

Guiding on Famous Peaks

For ten years, Dick was the main guide on Mount Rainier in Washington state. He also led the first ever guided climb on Mount McKinley, which is also known as Denali. Denali is the highest mountain in North America.

Dick McGowan's Life Story

Dick McGowan grew up in Seattle, Washington. He studied geography at the University of Washington.

He was married to Louise, who was also his business partner for a long time. They had three children: Richard Jr., Devi, and Kili.

Dick was also a director for the American Himalayan Foundation. This group helps people and the environment in the Himalayan region. He worked there with his good friend, Sir Edmund Hillary, who was one of the first people to reach the summit of Mount Everest.

Images for kids

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  Dick McGowan on Sahale Summit in 1966.