Hurry up and wait!

It’s a saying heard all around Talkeetna and Denali. A constant reminder to be prepared for what comes next, and that in an environment with so much uncertainty, all you can control is yourself.

The May 16th team became masters of “Hurry up and wait!” We waited six days in Talkeetna, and faced snowstorms, high winds and cold temps on the mountain. Taking every opportunity the mountain offered, we continued up with uncertainty of how high we would get. Nineteen days after first meeting each other in Anchorage, we stood on top of the highest peak in North America on June 3rd.

Now off the mountain, clean and rested, we are heading out to our next adventure. I want to express my deepest gratitude to the May 16th team! A resilient group of people who made the mountain and this entire trip such a special experience. Strong work crew!

And thank you to everyone who supported us and followed along the way.

Cheers!

Marcus Bailado

May 16 team summit photo

May 16 guide team