The Lifer: Rock Climbing Adventures in the GUNKS and Beyond

by Russ Clune

One of the world’s most well-traveled rock climbers, Clune takes us on an up-close journey though the evolution of the sport over the decades. From his home turf in the Gunks of New York State, to cliffs in far flung regions of the planet, Clune brings to life hilarious and sometimes horrifying escapades while he tests his mettle. Along the way, he deftly illustrates the changes that morphed rock climbing from a dirtbag activity for somewhat eccentric people to today’s Olympic sport status for its most dedicated practitioners. As Clune travels, the reader is introduced to a who’s-who of climbers of the past and pulled into the experiences that created special bonds and lifelong friendships.

Genres: Climbing

274 pages, Paperback

Published September 26, 2023

Reviews

[Anna · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you know Russ, you already know how fun of a book this is going to be. Some of these stories I’ve heard through conversations over dinner and wine while others were new. I’ve always loved reading books about the history of modern (ish) rock climbing, especially since most of the key players you actually have a chance of bumping into at the crag. This one was a particularly impactful because Russ is my friend, but also because i felt like it linked the 70s-the 90s. I’ve read quite a few accounts of climbing from the 60s and 70s but haven’t heard much about the cross over from the 80s to more modern day. Clune helps link the transition from old school trad mentality to modern day bolt clipping with a little introduction to competitive climbing. I honestly had no idea speed climbing had been around for so long. I throughly enjoyed this book and would recommend it to people who don’t climb as well. Russ is a wonderful adventure story teller. I’m just sad I didn’t know there would be an audiobook version!

One of my favorite quotes from the book was when he reflected on the impact of climbing in his home crag of the Gunks and it resonated with me as someone who spent their formative years at the Red and feel similarly. “I’m flooded with memories and reminded of how much these cliffs can teach us about ourselves… It’s about the memories, and what we learn about ourselves while we’re making them”.

[Bobbie Scott · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Lifer draws you in immediately, balancing the light-hearted joy of climbing with the sport’s grittier, more unforgiving realities. It does more than just tell climbing stories—it sheds light on a lifestyle that’s as much about obsession, camaraderie, and personal challenge as it is about the act of climbing itself.
For non-climbers, it’s an enlightening window into the world of those who dedicate their lives to rock and rope. For climbers, like myself, it’s something more intimate—it reeled me back in time to places, people, and moments I’d half-forgotten. The book stirred up nostalgia for old crags, dirtbag campgrounds, and the quiet intensity that comes with chasing a line up stone.
Whether you're a seasoned lifer or just curious about what drives someone to make a life out of climbing, this book lands with authenticity and heart.

[Sydney · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an engaging adventure of a book! It provides an exciting window into the history of climbing and a compelling journey throughout that history. It is incredibly inspiring for those obsessed with climbing and those in love with adventure and rocks!! I highly recommend this to any and all humans who are looking for a journey through the beautiful sport of climbing:)

[Alex · Rating 5 out of 5]

Epic.... Such a fun collection of memories.

[Climbing · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book is moving. Readers will find it inspiring and want to travel more.
So many rocks, adventures, friends and so little time!

[Jhoste · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you have climbed at the Gunks, you will like this book. Lots of historical info on routes and climbers at the Gunks.