Everest Gets Crowded

May 22, 2026

A long line of climbers in colorful gear ascending a steep snow-covered ridge on Mount Everest, with massive glacial ice walls in the background.

Lesson overview

On one day in May 2026, 274 climbers reached the top of Everest, a new record for the mountain’s south side. It happened because of blocked ice, a delayed season, and China closing its side of the mountain entirely. This two-level ESL lesson uses the story to get students talking about risk, overcrowding, and who gets to decide how many people can stand on top of the world.

We also have a B2 lesson on Climbing Mount Everest if you want more on the topic.

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