The Mountain Trip May 21 team called in with an update on their expedition from Camp 3 14,200 ft (4328 m). We understand that they are safely back at camp after making a successful mission up to the 16,100 ft (4877 m) cache sight on the ridge pictured below. Congratulations, crew!

Climbing up the “Headwall” the section of the route with fixed lines running from 15,500 ft (4724 m) with a heavy pack makes this one of the more strenuous days of the trip because of the steep terrain and thinning air. It’s all worth it for the views and for cutting the weight the climbers will have to carry when they make their move to Camp 4 17,200 ft (5242 m). The total climb day will take about 5-7 hours over 2.4 miles (3.8 km) with 2,200 ft (670 m) of elevation gain and loss.

From here they are feeling ready and rested to push for the 17,200 ft (m) site, which is the most secure and the best choice for the team’s last place to pitch camp before their summit bid! This is another big climb day, as the loads are big and some of the terrain the climbers will negotiate is steep. Rewards for their work are in the awesome climbing along the ridge. Weaving in and out of the rocks and occasionally walking a knife-edge stretch, combined with big exposure, make this day one of the most memorable of the route over about 6-8 hours. Fingers crossed the weather window will show up so this team can make their move!

recording