The last guided team of the Denali season is officially on route! Grace, a private client, just flew into Denali Base Camp (7,200 ft / 2,195 m) alongside her guides Jordan Cargill (on his 3rd rotation) and Matthew Koenig (2nd rotation).

Grace is already well-acclimatized and aiming for a quick, efficient push on the West Buttress Route. After landing under clear skies, the team took time to hydrate, rest, and prep gear at base before moving across the lower glacier.

They’re now resting up for the infamous climb over Heartbreak Hill—a steep gain of nearly 1,000 ft / 305 m leading toward Camp 1 at 7,800 ft / 2,377 m. The route cuts across crevassed terrain and typically takes 4–6 hours. They’ll travel overnight to take advantage of firmer snow and cooler temperatures. Stay tuned as this strong, streamlined crew moves fast and light up the mountain!