Earth is full of extreme environments. From soaring mountain peaks to arid deserts to rain-soaked jungles, nature's extremes are both admired and used to test people's limits in surviving them. These landscapes each have a variety of dangers, and not everyone who ventures into them comes out alive. Essential Survival Stories examines the challenges that people have faced in the wilderness and how they have survived. It also offers safety and preparedness tips for anyone looking for an outdoor adventure.