Kilian Jornet spent a month in the United States dedicated to his most ambitious project yet—climbing 72 peaks over four thousand meters high. In 31 days, he covered more than 5,000 kilometers and gained over 123,000 meters in elevation before returning to Norway.
During this challenge, the athlete noted that the key to success was not only physical preparation, but also the ability to maintain inner calm. According to him, it is important not just to conquer the mountains, but to learn to live with them, embracing everything that comes with extended periods at altitude: fatigue, solitude, doubt, joy, and the sense of community with like-minded people.
The first days in Colorado proved especially tough due to acclimatization, jet lag, and high temperatures. Jornet admitted he felt drained, but gradually his body adapted to the demands. Each day brought better recovery, as he learned to balance movement and rest. After completing the route, he noted he could have kept going even longer—his body and mind had adapted so well.
The route plan had to be adjusted along the way: weather conditions, snow, fires, and strong winds forced changes. Some sections were closed, so alternative paths had to be found to avoid dangerous roads and unfavorable conditions. However, Jornet said most of the changes were minor.
Reflecting on his experience, the athlete emphasized the importance of proper sleep and nutrition. After the initial days of fatigue, a period of stability set in, with all key metrics returning to normal. He noted that the body is capable of remarkable adaptation if one pays attention to recovery.
In Colorado, Jornet experienced weight loss due to heat and ultraviolet exposure, but he quickly adjusted his diet and sleep schedule, which helped him regain his strength. Extreme weather conditions followed him in other states as well: in California, he had to endure desert heat, while on Mount Shasta he faced icy winds. In such situations, reliable gear is especially crucial—which he tested in real-world conditions.
Long cycling stretches were less familiar to Jornet than hiking ascents, but he enjoyed them nonetheless. He described the toughest moments as the days with bad weather, which required maximum caution. However, there was no fear—only respect for the elements and a clear understanding of the next steps.
He especially remembered the moments spent with friends and the team. Shared dinners after tough days and encounters with wild animals at the summits all became part of his unique experience. Jornet stressed that he could not single out any one peak as the most important: each became part of a greater journey, and above all, it was the people who were with him that mattered most.
After completing the route, the athlete felt not euphoria but calm and a touch of sadness—it was the end of something significant. As is tradition, he celebrated the finish by sharing pizza with his team.
Support from friends and family proved just as important for Jornet as physical training. Interacting with his children gave him energy and helped him see things from a new perspective. He is convinced that the main point is not records, but the experiences and connections that remain after such challenges.
There were some funny moments during the journey: for example, once in Nevada he fell off his bike because he didn’t manage to get his foot off the pedal in time, and he laughed about it himself. Jornet also mentioned being inspired by examples of other athletes, such as Carlos Soria, who continues to conquer summits at 86 years old.
Future plans are not yet defined: for now, Jornet wants to rest and spend time with his family. However, he does not rule out new projects in the mountains. A book about his adventures in the Alps was recently published, where he tried to share his impressions and memories—though he admits it is impossible to fully describe the mountain experience.
In 2025, Jornet does not rule out taking part in new competitions, but emphasizes that for him, the most important thing is enjoying nature and movement.
