The Man Who Planned to Land a Plane on Everest—and Climb It Alone

Maurice Wilson’s story is one of adventure, determination, and tragedy. A British war veteran with no mountaineering experience, he believed sheer willpower and faith could take him to the top of Mount Everest. Nevertheless, his plan was audacious—he intended to crash-land a small plane near the mountain and climb it alone. Maurice Wilson is often remembered as the Man who tried to climb Everest alone. Unfortunately, fate had other plans.

A Soldier Turned Adventurer

Born in England in 1898, Maurice Wilson served as a soldier during World War I. He suffered severe injuries in battle, yet his bravery earned him the Military Cross. However, the war left deep emotional scars, and he struggled to find purpose in life after returning home.

Seeking meaning beyond his military past, Wilson embarked on a spiritual journey. He explored fasting, meditation, and faith as a way to heal himself, believing that sheer willpower and divine guidance could help him overcome any obstacle.

During the early 1930s, Wilson became obsessed with Everest. He developed an unusual belief: faith, fasting, and determination could overcome any physical challenge. As a result, he became convinced that he was destined to reach the summit. Despite his enthusiasm, he prepared for his journey without any mountaineering experience or technical training.

A Risky Flight to Everest

Wilson purchased a de Havilland Gipsy Moth biplane, naming it Ever Wrest—a symbolic nod to his battle against the mountain. His plan was wildly ambitious: fly from England to Tibet, crash-land near Everest, and begin his solo ascent. However, the British government saw his mission as reckless and tried to stop him.

Despite multiple setbacks, Wilson managed to fly as far as India, where authorities grounded his plane. Undeterred, he decided to continue his journey on foot. Disguising himself as a Buddhist monk, he made his way toward Everest, determined to fulfill his dream at any cost.

The Journey with the Sherpas

Arriving in Darjeeling, India, Wilson enlisted three experienced Sherpas to assist him. The group trekked into Tibet and reached Everest Base Camp in 1934. However, upon assessing the brutal conditions, the Sherpas refused to climb any higher. They knew Wilson lacked the necessary experience and equipment to survive the ascent.

Ignoring their warnings, Wilson pressed on alone. Before departing, he told the Sherpas, “If I don’t return in two weeks, assume I am dead.”

A Lonely and Desperate Climb

Wilson documented his struggle in a diary, capturing his unwavering determination as well as his increasing weakness. With no climbing gear, minimal food, and no understanding of high-altitude survival, he faced insurmountable odds. The relentless cold, treacherous terrain, and lack of oxygen made every step an ordeal.

Weeks passed, and the Sherpas, waiting at Base Camp, began to lose hope. Wilson never returned.

The Discovery of His Body

In 1935, a British expedition led by Eric Shipton stumbled upon Wilson’s remains. He was found inside his tent, wrapped in his sleeping bag. His diary lay nearby, detailing his final days of struggle. The cause of death was likely a combination of exhaustion, starvation, and exposure to the unforgiving Himalayan cold.

A Dream That Ended in Tragedy

Maurice Wilson’s attempt to conquer Everest was both inspiring and reckless. He had the heart of an adventurer but lacked the skills and preparation required to survive. His story remains one of the most unusual in mountaineering history—a testament to human ambition, the power of belief, and the steep price of chasing an impossible dream.

Why Maurice Wilson’s Story Still Fascinates the World

Despite his failure, Wilson’s tale continues to captivate adventurers and historians alike. His boldness, defiance of authority, and sheer willpower embody the spirit of those who dare to dream beyond their limits. In a world where modern climbers rely on advanced gear and guided expeditions, Wilson’s lone, ill-equipped journey stands as a stark reminder of the mountain’s unforgiving nature.

Would you have joined Wilson on his daring quest? Share your thoughts in the comments below! If Everest is calling you, let us help you plan a safe and unforgettable trekking adventure. Contact us today to make your dream trek a reality!