The June 7 team has been weathering it out at High Camp for the past three days, holding tight through strong winds and waiting patiently for a safe summit window. At 17,200 feet (5,243 m), this is the highest camp on the West Buttress route and one of the most exposed. The views up here are absolutely surreal—towering ice formations, vast Alaskan sky, and the summit ridge looming just above.

Since arriving from 14 Camp (14,200 ft / 4,328 m), the team ascended the fixed lines on the headwall to reach the ridge at 16,200 ft (4,938 m), then followed the stunning but serious West Buttress ridge line up to their current perch. The traverse to High Camp is physically demanding and mentally intense, but this strong crew handled it with focus and strength.

The last few days have been all about rest, food, and recovery—critical for performance at this elevation. Despite the high winds, spirits are up. The team has stayed warm in their snow fortresses, fueled up with hot meals, and leaned into each other’s support as they prepare for the final leg of their journey.

Tomorrow, if conditions cooperate, they’ll make their summit bid—climbing from 17 Camp up the infamous Autobahn, past Denali Pass (18,200 ft / 5,548 m), across the Football Field (19,500 ft / 5,944 m), and up Pig Hill to the true summit at 20,310 ft (6,190 m).

It’s a big push in extreme conditions, but they’re ready. Stay tuned and send strong thoughts their way as they aim to stand on the highest point in North America and complete this powerful expedition.

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