At 82, a lot of individuals wish for a slow and relaxed life, but Dr. David McClung from Olathe, Kansas, is not such a person. Showing that there is no age restriction for adventure, David has just returned from an incredible trek to Everest Base Camp (5,364m/ 17,598 ft.) in Nepal, sharing the adventure with his son, Dennis David McClung.
David trekked on foot the entire route over eight days, October 12 to 19, 2025, and reached Everest Base Camp at approximately 12:36 p.m. (NPT). on October 19, 2025. A journey succeeded with rough and tough mountain trails, swinging bridges, and the local community of Sherpas, and eventually, they reached the magical base camp, which is the gateway to the world’s highest mountain, Mount Everest.
It was not only a challenge for David’s stamina but also a dream come true all at once. His family posted the accomplishment on social media, calling him “the oldest person to reach Everest Base Camp” with great pride. Since then, his journey has touched people’s hearts internationally and has shown that nothing can stop the flow of passion.
David’s story goes far beyond mountaineering. Before starting his journey to Everest, as a combat veteran who had served in the Vietnam War, he was recognized for his courage and determination. The rigorousness and toughness he derived from his military life were significant factors in his successful venture into the demanding mountain paths of the Himalayas.
David’s story was covered by some local media, such as The Kansas City Star, which focused on his adventurous spirit and determination. In spite of the fact that there is no formal acknowledgment yet from Guinness World Records or the Himalayan Database affirming his title, the accomplishment still serves as one of the most remarkable ever of the human spirit’s endurance and passion for exploring.
David, through his family, explained that nature was the primary factor of his quest, and at the same time, he aspired to be a model who would inspire people not to quit their active lifestyle, regardless of their age. “It’s never too late to chase what excites you,” his son was quoting him.
It was not just a physical challenge; it was a deeply personal one, said Dennis through his social platform. His kid, who was with him at every moment, said that the trip was a way for them to re-establish their connection — not only with each other but also with nature.
As per the sources, the pair got ready for the trip for several months—daily walking, practicing hikes on trails in Kansas nearby, and carrying light backpacks as a way of training. His son shared in an emotional message that “my father is proof that consistency is the key to everything.”
The Everest Base Camp trek is among the most popular and demanded adventures in the world, and it draws trekkers who definitely want to see the beauty of Mount Everest at close distance. David’s story has become a source of inspiration to all travelers and dreamers around the globe: age is nothing but a number when the mountains call you.
David, a brave adventurer, took this wonderful trip with Himalayan Glacier, one of Nepal’s leading trekking agencies known for its expert guides and personalized service. He was personally guided by Aasbir Gurung, and the company provided support in all aspects: safety, comfort, and steady progress throughout the high-altitude trekking adventure.
Want to write your own story?
Let David McClung’s journey remind you that adventure has no age, no limit, and no perfect time — only the courage to begin. Start your own Himalayan chapter with us.
A leading adventure & tour operator in the Himalayas since 1992, Himalayan Glacier Adventure & Travel Company® is the #1 guiding adventure travel company on Mount Everest Base Camp and beyond with 98% success rate. Each of our holidays is truly a tailor-made package which we design for all ages, groups, families & solo travelers.
