For alpinist Ben Clark, scaling the world’s toughest mountains was a source of pride and peace; for his parents it was a source of constant worry. After they learned to live with their son’s adventurous streak, Ben decided to quit the mountaineer life altogether. Why? The answer may surprise you.

Ben Clark directed the documentary, The Alaskan Way.

Follow Ben Clark on Instagram @bclarkmtn

You can also find out more about his film projects at his website: bclarkmtn.com

Long interview today with NHPR, yes, #newhampshirepublicradio about my life as a mountain athlete. The focus was on how things had changed since I was gunning for age records on Everest to pioneering climbs and ski descents before abruptly stopping when my son Charlie was born. The relationships we have, above all, are what make our lives more than accomplished. They are what we live for. And that includes our climbing partners:) #ospreyathlete @ospreypacks photo by @joshbutson -from high on Annapurna IV in 2008-when we skied it!

A photo posted by Ben Clark (@bclarkmtn) on Jan 21, 2016 at 12:29pm PST

If you want to learn about climbing come to the #ourayicefestival this weekend in #Ouray #colorado !!! @ospreypacks supports learning and competing at the festival at all levels and as an #ospreyathlete I'll be there roping in beginners-my favorite group! You won't have to get all exposed like I am on #bridalveilfalls in the photo, but you might learn how to relax so you can. Novice Ice from 12-3,Friday and Saturday, no experience required to learn to "chill" PS-I am bringing these old tools for fun:)

A photo posted by Ben Clark (@bclarkmtn) on Jan 14, 2016 at 12:56pm PST

Do you see the #climber in the photo? Awesome day instructing clinics in the icy maw of the #ourayicepark at the #ourayicefestival in #Ouray #colorado this weekend! #ospreyathlete @ospreypacks

A photo posted by Ben Clark (@bclarkmtn) on Jan 15, 2016 at 2:31pm PST