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Where You'll Find Me: Risk, Decisions, and the Last Climb of Kate Matrosova
On February 15, 2015, Kate Matrosova, an avid mountaineer, set off before sunrise for a traverse of the Northern Presidential Range in New Hampshire's White Mountains. Late the following day, rescuers carried her frozen body out of the mountains amid some of the worst weather ever recorded on these deceptively rugged slopes.
At thirty-two, Matrosova was ultra-fit and healthy and had already summited much larger mountains on several continents. Her gear included a rescue beacon and a satellite phone. Yet, despite their best efforts, more than forty expert search and rescue personnel, a New Hampshire Army National Guard Blackhawk helicopter, and a Civil Air Patrol Cessna airplane could not reach her in time to save her.
What went wrong?
Where You'll Find Me offers possible answers to that question, demonstrating why Matrosova's story—what we know and what we will never know—represents such an intriguing and informative case study in risk analysis and decision-making.
At thirty-two, Matrosova was ultra-fit and healthy and had already summited much larger mountains on several continents. Her gear included a rescue beacon and a satellite phone. Yet, despite their best efforts, more than forty expert search and rescue personnel, a New Hampshire Army National Guard Blackhawk helicopter, and a Civil Air Patrol Cessna airplane could not reach her in time to save her.
What went wrong?
Where You'll Find Me offers possible answers to that question, demonstrating why Matrosova's story—what we know and what we will never know—represents such an intriguing and informative case study in risk analysis and decision-making.
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First published August 25, 2017
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About the author
Ty Gagne
3 books80 followersTy Gagne is Chief Executive Officer of New Hampshire Public Risk Management Exchange (Primex), a public entity risk pool serving local governments in New Hampshire. He is a certified Wilderness First Responder and the author of the book Where You’ll Find Me: Risk, Decisions, and the Last Climb of Kate Matrosova. Two of his essays, “Emotional Rescue,” and “Weakness in Numbers: How a Hiking Companion can be Dangerous” were published in Appalachia journal.
In The Last Traverse; Tragedy and Resilience in the Winter Whites, Ty Gagne lays out the events that led up to an epic and legendary rescue attempt in severe and dangerous winter conditions in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. More than a cautionary tale, it is a tribute to all the volunteers and professionals who willingly put themselves in harm’s way to save lives.
In The Last Traverse; Tragedy and Resilience in the Winter Whites, Ty Gagne lays out the events that led up to an epic and legendary rescue attempt in severe and dangerous winter conditions in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. More than a cautionary tale, it is a tribute to all the volunteers and professionals who willingly put themselves in harm’s way to save lives.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 272 reviews
January 13, 2021
This book has undoubtedly saved lives. Takeaways for me as a 4 season hiker: always check the weather as close to your departure as possible (MWOBS Higher Summits Forecast for those adventuring in the Whites), seek out local guides and advice, leave a plan with someone, pack for the night (bivy, pad, sleeping bag), make a point to stop, eat, and hydrate frequently (Kate was found with full water bottles), and, most importantly, never underestimate the Whites.
There has been a media fascination with Kate, the woman, and she is often portrayed as a certain kind of experiential materialist, whose obsession with achievement and ego created this tragedy. In truth, it probably took a ton of heart and courage to get where she did—from a tiny town in Siberia to a successful career in finance in the US.
This books differs from other coverage because it gets into the details of Kate's trip that compounded to work to her and her rescuers' disadvantage. A practical read for anyone who regularly explores the backcountry.
There has been a media fascination with Kate, the woman, and she is often portrayed as a certain kind of experiential materialist, whose obsession with achievement and ego created this tragedy. In truth, it probably took a ton of heart and courage to get where she did—from a tiny town in Siberia to a successful career in finance in the US.
This books differs from other coverage because it gets into the details of Kate's trip that compounded to work to her and her rescuers' disadvantage. A practical read for anyone who regularly explores the backcountry.
October 11, 2018
Note: I don't think there are any spoilers here - this is stated right in the title...
Where You'll Find Me: Risk, Decisions, and the Last Climb of Kate Matrosova
Having recently traveled through the White Mountains in northern New Hampshire, where I also began grabbing books that were locally published, it was incredibly satisfying to read about real adventures that happened in places we visited.
One of the more recent events to happen is detailed in this thorough recounting of Kate Matrosova's ill fated hike of the Northern Presidential Range in February 2015.
Don't let the book's title or the fact that author Ty Gagne is a risk management executive based in New Hampshire scare you away from reading this riveting book. An experienced outdoors-man in his own right, Gagne writes a very objective and compelling story by expertly weaving together facts about the situation on the ground prior to, in the air during, and 360 degrees around after the fact. This read includes strategies for deciding what to do in extreme situations, and personal accounts from many of the law enforcement officers, NH Fish and Wildlife officers and a myriad of other rescuers involved in this tragic saga.
Matrosova and her husband are not weekend warriors on the hiking scene. She has accomplished much in her 32 years including, immigrating from Siberia, climbing several 8000m mountains, earning a masters degree in finance and landing a high paying position with a well known investment bank in New York City. With her drive she is well prepared to knock off a string of peaks in a day hike in New Hampshire's Northern Presidential range. She has researched this trek and has a careful plan to execute it. Traveling light, Matrosova sets out on the day after Valentines Day to achieve the next wrung on her climbing ladder - a solo winter hike of the Northern Presidential peaks in the White Mountains of New Hampshire.
Peppered with photos, maps, and Further Reading, this quick read is staying front and center on my adventure/survival bookshelf. An excellent read for the armchair adventurer and seasoned hiker alike. Highly recommended.
Where You'll Find Me: Risk, Decisions, and the Last Climb of Kate Matrosova
Having recently traveled through the White Mountains in northern New Hampshire, where I also began grabbing books that were locally published, it was incredibly satisfying to read about real adventures that happened in places we visited.
One of the more recent events to happen is detailed in this thorough recounting of Kate Matrosova's ill fated hike of the Northern Presidential Range in February 2015.
Don't let the book's title or the fact that author Ty Gagne is a risk management executive based in New Hampshire scare you away from reading this riveting book. An experienced outdoors-man in his own right, Gagne writes a very objective and compelling story by expertly weaving together facts about the situation on the ground prior to, in the air during, and 360 degrees around after the fact. This read includes strategies for deciding what to do in extreme situations, and personal accounts from many of the law enforcement officers, NH Fish and Wildlife officers and a myriad of other rescuers involved in this tragic saga.
Matrosova and her husband are not weekend warriors on the hiking scene. She has accomplished much in her 32 years including, immigrating from Siberia, climbing several 8000m mountains, earning a masters degree in finance and landing a high paying position with a well known investment bank in New York City. With her drive she is well prepared to knock off a string of peaks in a day hike in New Hampshire's Northern Presidential range. She has researched this trek and has a careful plan to execute it. Traveling light, Matrosova sets out on the day after Valentines Day to achieve the next wrung on her climbing ladder - a solo winter hike of the Northern Presidential peaks in the White Mountains of New Hampshire.
Peppered with photos, maps, and Further Reading, this quick read is staying front and center on my adventure/survival bookshelf. An excellent read for the armchair adventurer and seasoned hiker alike. Highly recommended.
January 13, 2018
It doesn't matter that you know the tragic outcome of this book: Ty Gagne pieces the events together in a thorough, thoughtful and disciplined way. It's suspenseful and moving. It would be easy, as one who hikes these mountains, to be judgmental about Matrosova's decisions on that fateful day, but Gagne forces you to balance all the possible decisions being made at every step. Plus, I learned so much about (i) why the weather patterns are so crazy in these seemingly 'small' mountains (compared to most other significantly higher ranges), (ii) what it takes for search and rescue missions in any weather, much less the worst weather of the worst winter in decades; and (iii) the knowledge and dedication of the search and rescue teams. They are incredibly admirable and I am thrilled to know they are there for anything that might happen on the trail (and yes, I have a Safe Hike Card and carry the 10 Essentials).
These mountains are powerful and unpredictable, and you have to surrender to their forces. Would I have gone out with the small window of clear weather presented to Kate Matrosova when she checked the Mountains Forecast the evening before she left? I'm far more risk adverse and would have checked the morning forecast, even if it meant leaving an hour later than planned. But I don't have her youth, past successes, physical strength and confidence. Just knowledge of the unpredictability of the Presidential Range at any time of year.
These mountains are powerful and unpredictable, and you have to surrender to their forces. Would I have gone out with the small window of clear weather presented to Kate Matrosova when she checked the Mountains Forecast the evening before she left? I'm far more risk adverse and would have checked the morning forecast, even if it meant leaving an hour later than planned. But I don't have her youth, past successes, physical strength and confidence. Just knowledge of the unpredictability of the Presidential Range at any time of year.
October 14, 2025
I picked this book up when I was in New Hampshire skiing. I always stop in the indie bookstores when I travel and I like to purchase a book by a local author and this book grabbed my interest.
At first, I was like this woman wasn't very smart to go hiking alone in the Presidential mountains in mid-February. However, the book showed that she was more than qualified and had climbed some big mountains before. What she failed to account for was the weather - it changes so fast and only short term forecasts are accurate for that area (and I'm talking 1 hour). She left early to beat the storm, but there was a severe weather update after she set off that she missed. She had her cell phone, but wanted to save its battery life.
As the book details, lots of little bad decisions can add up to tragedy. The rescuers went above and beyond considering the terrible conditions.
Each chapter heading had a quote, and this one was my favorite as it's true and still relevant:
"Facts are stubborn things; and whatever may be our wishes, our inclinations, or the dictates of our passions, they cannot alter the state of facts and evidence." President John Adams
At first, I was like this woman wasn't very smart to go hiking alone in the Presidential mountains in mid-February. However, the book showed that she was more than qualified and had climbed some big mountains before. What she failed to account for was the weather - it changes so fast and only short term forecasts are accurate for that area (and I'm talking 1 hour). She left early to beat the storm, but there was a severe weather update after she set off that she missed. She had her cell phone, but wanted to save its battery life.
As the book details, lots of little bad decisions can add up to tragedy. The rescuers went above and beyond considering the terrible conditions.
Each chapter heading had a quote, and this one was my favorite as it's true and still relevant:
"Facts are stubborn things; and whatever may be our wishes, our inclinations, or the dictates of our passions, they cannot alter the state of facts and evidence." President John Adams
April 6, 2024
Interesting but sad story about Kate Matrosva, mountain climber.
March 23, 2025
The author did a great job, with a very methodical postmortem of this ultimately unsuccessful search and rescue. He obviously took great care to be respectful of the hiker who is the subject of the book.
However, I'm still not convinced that she deserves all that respect. Of course, I'm very sorry she's died, and caused suffering for herself and her loved ones- but she made a lot of damn stupid decisions and put a lot of other people at risk. I know people make bad decisions all the time, but hers just went on and on.
Also, on several times occasions the author wrote that she should be able to handle any situation the world, including extreme weather in the whites, because she was a top-notch stockbroker and knew how to handle risk. As someone who spends a lot of time outside (and is no way an expert), I find it very offensive that doing well in stock trading is somehow equated with outdoor expertise. That's not getting outdoor knowledge nearly enough respect, and it's a slap in the face to the guides and others who've made their life's work in the mountains.
I was happy to read it, but ultimately disgusted.
After reading the second time, I don’t have such a severe reaction. But I still don’t like her, and don’t respect the choices she made. I’m sorry she passed away due to those choices – but that doesn’t make the choices OK.
However, I'm still not convinced that she deserves all that respect. Of course, I'm very sorry she's died, and caused suffering for herself and her loved ones- but she made a lot of damn stupid decisions and put a lot of other people at risk. I know people make bad decisions all the time, but hers just went on and on.
Also, on several times occasions the author wrote that she should be able to handle any situation the world, including extreme weather in the whites, because she was a top-notch stockbroker and knew how to handle risk. As someone who spends a lot of time outside (and is no way an expert), I find it very offensive that doing well in stock trading is somehow equated with outdoor expertise. That's not getting outdoor knowledge nearly enough respect, and it's a slap in the face to the guides and others who've made their life's work in the mountains.
I was happy to read it, but ultimately disgusted.
After reading the second time, I don’t have such a severe reaction. But I still don’t like her, and don’t respect the choices she made. I’m sorry she passed away due to those choices – but that doesn’t make the choices OK.
December 27, 2023
I taught Into Thin Air for many years, and I never tired of rereading the book each year or sharing it with teenagers. In a similar vein, this book explores a horrible tragedy that could have been prevented if other choices were made.
It's clear from the first page that Kate does not survive, but this fact does not prevent us from reading this (non)survival story. The author constantly focuses on the risks that Kate chooses to take and reminds us that we need to weigh consequences when we take risks. A search and rescue team of 40, a helicopter, and an airplane could not reach her in time. Kate was a highly experienced hiker in excellent physical condition. So what went wrong? The author posits some possibilities, but we will never truly know. What we do know is that this is a great read because it transcends Kate's story (handled sensitively by the author) and moves into terrain that asks the reader to contemplate why we make the decisions we do and what we are willing to risk.
I live in NH, where Kate attempted her last climb, and that adds to my connections to the story. I wish the book were printed more professionally. I was distracted by the typewriter feel of the text and layout, and the cover is not appealing.
It's clear from the first page that Kate does not survive, but this fact does not prevent us from reading this (non)survival story. The author constantly focuses on the risks that Kate chooses to take and reminds us that we need to weigh consequences when we take risks. A search and rescue team of 40, a helicopter, and an airplane could not reach her in time. Kate was a highly experienced hiker in excellent physical condition. So what went wrong? The author posits some possibilities, but we will never truly know. What we do know is that this is a great read because it transcends Kate's story (handled sensitively by the author) and moves into terrain that asks the reader to contemplate why we make the decisions we do and what we are willing to risk.
I live in NH, where Kate attempted her last climb, and that adds to my connections to the story. I wish the book were printed more professionally. I was distracted by the typewriter feel of the text and layout, and the cover is not appealing.
March 19, 2024
Kate Matrosova’s final hike was deadly, but her death can be a lesson to us all. While this book was about her death and subsequent recovery in the White Mountains of New Hampshire, this is truly a lesson in risk management and decision making. Kate was well prepared for her winter hike, but made a number of errors which ultimately led to her demise. Her ability and technical skills outweighed her experience on solo trips in winter environments. Understanding your own limits and being willing to admit and accept failure as part of the journey are all things only learned through experience in the wilderness and in life.
Side note, I listened to this and would not recommend listening to it. The narrator was too factual in his presentation and missed the emotional aspect of the story. I believe it would have been much more enjoyable reading it as a book.
Side note, I listened to this and would not recommend listening to it. The narrator was too factual in his presentation and missed the emotional aspect of the story. I believe it would have been much more enjoyable reading it as a book.
May 26, 2020
This is a well written after action report. This lost a star because it is too apologist. This book seems to rationalize and justify some colossally stupid decisions that ultimately put the lives of a significant number of rescuers at risk.
Hiking alone?
Dead of winter without sufficient gear?
Continuing to push despite deteriorating conditions?
The sad truth is that she never should have been there and the rescuers should never have had to deploy. The book dances around these undeniable facts.
Hiking alone?
Dead of winter without sufficient gear?
Continuing to push despite deteriorating conditions?
The sad truth is that she never should have been there and the rescuers should never have had to deploy. The book dances around these undeniable facts.
March 3, 2025
i’m so glad i read this book after i hiked the franconia ridge
November 6, 2022
I listened to this audiobook on my way to base camp for a solo ascent of the Pica d'Estats in early November, and the book made me very anxious. I didn’t summit due to a number of silly reasons, despite perfect weather conditions. A good read overall.
November 2, 2025
A case study of a fatal alpine rescue attempt that is at once objective and professional while still deeply moving, humanizing, and thought provoking. Of all the mountaineering stories I’ve read, none have painted such a detailed picture of what exactly happens in the moments, hours, and days after an emergency beacon is activated. Essential reading for anyone spending time in the mountains to better understand not only the risks we accept for ourselves, but also the risk we are asking of others.
December 21, 2024
The author took a bit too much creative liberty, in my opinion, but the story was well researched and engaging. Discussions on risk and decision-making interspersed throughout were informative. An appropriately harrowing portrait of winter mountaineering.
January 8, 2025
This book was incredible. I learned so much about weather patterns in the mountains, safe hiking, mountain rescue networks and volunteers, and about Kate Matrosova’s life and last hike. While deeply analytical, it was also powerful and extremely emotional. An amazing read that was hard to put down, even when I finished.
May 16, 2023
I truly cannot recommend this book enough. Especially for hikers. WOW.
December 8, 2020
It may not be the best written book I’ve ever read (weird present tense, some seemingly unnecessary repetition, etc.), but darn if I didn’t read the whole thing in 19 hours (would have been less had I not started it at 8:30 p.m.) Did I cry? Like a baby. The author does a tremendous job of telling the entire story, including Kate and Charlie’s background and the rescuers experience as well. I felt like I was alongside everyone as the story unfolds. It’s a testament to the author that when the inevitable finding of Kate’s body happens it is gutting. If you are a hiker and don’t yet have a healthy fear of the Northern Presidentials, read this book.
February 20, 2021
10/10/10/10/10. Top tier. A well-researched piece of nonfiction. The perseverance, the unequivocal fear, the illustrations. FULL CONDITIONS. A must-read for all mountaineers.
April 16, 2023
Audible version, narrated by Lee Goettl
This was a fascinating look at a tragic hiking incident in New Hampshire's White Mountains, an area known for having the 'worst weather in the world'. After experiencing the wind at the summit of Mt Washington on a calm day, I can't even imagine being in that area during a storm.
The story reminded me a lot of Jon Krakauer's "Into Thin Air" (another favorite), in that it analytically broke down all the precautions that were taken, decisions made, and the consequences. It's a (non)-survival story that hopefully saves lives.
I also found it moving just how dedicated the Search and Rescue workers and volunteers were (and continue to be), despite the weather conditions.
Great read- I couldn't stop listening!
This was a fascinating look at a tragic hiking incident in New Hampshire's White Mountains, an area known for having the 'worst weather in the world'. After experiencing the wind at the summit of Mt Washington on a calm day, I can't even imagine being in that area during a storm.
The story reminded me a lot of Jon Krakauer's "Into Thin Air" (another favorite), in that it analytically broke down all the precautions that were taken, decisions made, and the consequences. It's a (non)-survival story that hopefully saves lives.
I also found it moving just how dedicated the Search and Rescue workers and volunteers were (and continue to be), despite the weather conditions.
Great read- I couldn't stop listening!
January 22, 2021
If you want the short version of this tragedy in the White Mountains, I recommend "Trader in the Wild," an article in Bloomberg Businessweek. What this book offers is the story of the rescue/recovery effort, which was extensive -- and really impressive. Also, the author offers a fair amount of information and analysis about risk and risk management. A friend who is an organizational consultant highly recommended this book to me.
I have to say that having just read a book about trying to rescue solo sailors in the Southern Ocean, you have a lot better chance of surviving an accident in the White Mountains.
I have to say that having just read a book about trying to rescue solo sailors in the Southern Ocean, you have a lot better chance of surviving an accident in the White Mountains.
March 18, 2020
A fascinating look into the death of Kate Matrosova and the rescue effort to try and save her, interspersed with valuable lessons about risk analysis and mitigation. I remember hearing about this incident as it was unfolding and being mind blown that anyone would be in the Presidentials that day. This book offers some incredible insight and I’d highly recommend it to any White Mountain enthusiast.
January 23, 2024
This book, while tragic, will absolutely save lives. Anybody who considers themselves a hiker and has large aspirational trips planned should absolutely read this book. It really brings the risk considerations of the outdoors front of mind in a thoughtful and impactful way.
November 24, 2021
Fantastic book about a common and horrible death in the White Mountains. The author really got into the meat of the decision-making and risk taking side of the tragedy which makes sense since his day job is for Primex. We had him give a presentation at the library over Zoom for his second book which was INCREDIBLE! I've always enjoyed adventure stories, but you won't catch me out on the mountains. Better just to read about others mistakes.
January 1, 2024
Read in a single afternoonThis was equal parts educational and heavy. A tragic but informative read. And it made me homesick for Ver-Hampshire
January 24, 2024
Such an interesting read!
May 31, 2024
Incredible…couldn’t put it down. I felt like I was right there emotionally and physically. Having grown up in the Mt. Washington valley…I had some idea of the level of world wide climbing expertise that resided there. But this book really delved into that, so moving every page. So impressed by the accomplishments, commitment and love for what these rescuers do. I have met many rescuers and one who gave his life rescuing teenagers on the side of Mt Washington in the 80s will never leave me. This book is a must read for outdoor enthusiasts who love the mountains, a great place to explore with great reverence.
October 13, 2024
Heartbreaking tale of tragedy in the White Mountains. I listened to the audio book. .
November 13, 2025
Very informative and easy to read and get through; a tragic story but I enjoyed how the author traced Kate's steps through the mountains with details and visuals.
April 14, 2018
A heartbreaking story, but worth the read if you have any interest in hiking or the NH wilderness. Even though I knew the ending, I still found myself feeling anxious as I read about Kate’s journey and the rescue mission. Very well written.
September 21, 2022
recommended reading for anyone who hikes the White Mountains!
June 1, 2025
The author portrays a gripping story with excellent writing. I appreciate his inclusion of information involved in risk management, but it felt a little heavy at times. I definitely enjoy the author’s storytelling more.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 272 reviews