Eric Larsen

Eric Larsen is an American polar explorer recognized for his extensive experience in extreme environments and polar expeditions. Larsen has completed more North and South Pole expeditions than any other American. Among his notable achievements, he completed the world's first summer expedition to the North Pole and set a world record by reaching the North Pole, South Pole, and the summit of Mount Everest within one year, a feat unique among explorers. That journey, known as the "Save the Poles" expedition, was dedicated to climate advocacy, with Larsen documenting the expedition online to raise awareness about climate change.

Larsen's significant expedition with Ryan Waters involved traversing nearly 500 miles across the Arctic Ocean, unsupported, from Northern Ellesmere Island to the geographic North Pole. Traveling across retreating sea ice on skis, snowshoes, and at times swimming through semi-frozen arctic slush, Larsen and Waters each hauled over 320 pounds of gear in extreme subzero temperatures. The expedition, called the "Last North Expedition," is considered one of the final human-powered treks to the North Pole due to rapidly melting Arctic ice. This journey resulted in Larsen's book, "On Thin Ice," and the documentary, "Melting: Last Race to the Pole." The expedition was also featured on Discovery networks globally.

In addition to his polar exploration, Larsen is an experienced communicator and educator. He has been recognized by Outside Magazine as one of its Eco All Stars and delivers motivational and educational lectures to schools, universities, nonprofit organizations, and corporate groups. In his keynote presentations, Larsen draws parallels between the challenges of extreme adventure and those faced in the corporate world, including his personal experience with cancer. He has delivered a TEDx talk and leads polar training courses for adventurers worldwide.

Larsen was diagnosed with stage 3b colorectal cancer and, after extensive treatment including chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery, achieved no evidence of disease. He has spoken openly about his cancer journey, using the resilience developed through polar exploration to inspire others. Larsen is writing about his cancer experience and the insights gained from his expeditions.

Larsen continues to guide expeditions and lead polar training courses, including "last degree" trips to the South Pole. He has led groups and individuals to the Poles, Mount Everest, Kilimanjaro, and other remote destinations. Through his firsthand accounts of polar exploration, climate change, and personal adversity, Larsen provides audiences with insights into adventure, resilience, and environmental advocacy.