Today the June 15th West Buttress Expedition made a successful carry from 14,200 ft (4,328 m) at Genet Basin to a cache site at 16,200 ft (4,938 m), located at the top of the fixed lines on the West Buttress ridge. The team climbed steadily through cloud cover, ascending the steep headwall with the help of ascenders and fixed protection on 50–55 degree snow and ice.
The route began with a traverse across 14 Camp’s basin, then a steady climb to the base of the headwall. After clipping into the fixed lines, the team gained nearly 2,000 vertical feet to crest onto the exposed ridge that leads to High Camp. Conditions remained stable throughout the day, and the descent was made under clear skies with excellent visibility across the Alaska Range.
Back at 14 Camp, the team refueled with Japanese-style ramen prepared by the Mountain Trip guides and took time to rest and hydrate after a demanding push.
All climbers are healthy, acclimating well, and preparing for the next move higher on the mountain.
