Mountain Voices

THIS COLLECTION OF FIFTEEN PROFILES captures the stories and spirit of the people who choose to live in New Hampshire’s craggy, remote North Country. Over nearly two decades, authors Doug Mayer and Rebecca Oreskes interviewed extraordinary people whose lives are intricately linked to the history of the White Mountains. With humor, wit, and unforgettable personal style, these trailblazing pioneers describe in their own words the foundation they laid for today’s outdoor adventurers. They tell of hard work in the White Mountain National Forest, on hiking trails and in the high huts of the Appalachian Mountain Club, and through groundbreaking mountaineering and search and rescue efforts. They’ve made quintessential climbing gear like Limmer boots, run Mount Washington’s famed Cog Railway, and achieved bold and selfless conservation and stewardship victories. Historical photographs accompany each interview. Profiles include Brad and Barbara Washburn, Guy and Laura Waterman, and other notable figures in the history of the region.


Authors Doug Mayer and Rebecca Oreskes live in New Hampshire. Doug is a producer for the radio program “Car Talk” and a frequent contributor to the journal Appalachia. Rebecca also writes for Appalachia and worked for many years for the White Mountain National Forest.


“Mountain Voices captures the spirit of a very special corner of the world. This impressive group of North Country legends, each in their own words and with their own style, reminds us all of just why we live here in these mountains.”

—Scot Henley, Executive Director, Mount Washington Observatory


“A necessary read for newcomers and old timers alike to be introduced to—or reminded of—how this beautiful place and its many wonderful voices shape our lives.”

—Tom Wagner, Forest Supervisor, White Mountain National Forest