Over the Hills and Far Away

'The whole trail has been orchestrated to make it possible for each one of us, in different ways, to be 'touched' by wilderness' Over the Hills and Far Away is a collection of essays that demonstrates Rob Collister's thirty-year experience in mountaineering. From solo climbing in the hills of the Carneddau in Wales, to small group expeditions to Carn Etchachan, Forbes ridge and Grosshorn, Rob Collister can be found in the hills, whether it be running, climbing or skiing, inspired by the words of H.W. Tilman and Henry David Thoreau. This collection of essays tackles the theme of self-sufficient small group expeditions compared to the organised larger-sized ones, as well as displaying the timeless subject of litter disposal in summits by a fresh invasion of the mountains in Snowdonia and the conservation of the wilderness by the creation of schools such as Wilderness Leadership School. His sense of adventure is shown through his words and passionate descriptions, climbing out of conditions and finding a challenge in Alpine climbing. In Over Hills and Far Away we understand the importance of nature and appreciation of it. This book will expand your knowledge of modern world issues and it will leave you hungry for adventure in the hills.

Best known as an alpinist in his youth, Rob Collister was in his element climbing unnamed peaks in obscure corners of the Himalaya. In 1976 he qualified as a British Mountain Guide, and was one of the first British guides to ski the Haute Route with clients, soon taking parties to places such as Kashmir, Kulu, Alaska and the Lyngen Alps - long before they became popular destinations. Recently, concern about carbon emissions has led to a reduction in his expedition mountaineering and to the use of public transport to travel to and around the Alps. Throughout his career he has been based in North Wales, raising a family of three children with his wife Netti. He has been a trustee of the Snowdonia Society and the John Muir Trust, served as a nominated member of the Snowdonia National Park Authority and was president of the British Mountain Guides from 1990 to 1993. Rob has contributed to a number of anthologies and has written regularly for the Alpine Journal and other outdoor publications. His previous books include Lightweight Expeditions (Crowood Press), Over the Hills and Far Away (Ernest Press), and Snowdonia, Park under Pressure (Pesda Press).