June 18 Team – Out of the Rain

The June 18 Team is excited to report that they are out of the rain and have made it to Camp 2 11,200 ft (3413 m)! While they would have normally arrived here a bit earlier in the trip weather has continued to trend towards challenging and stormy. Camp 2 is known for its gorgeous views and alpenglow.

Tomorrow is usually an “active rest day” during which we drop back down and pick up the cache they left near Kahiltna Pass. It also helps to give the team another day to acclimatize before moving higher. That day will only take about 1.5 hours round trip with 1,200 ft of elevation loss and gain. From there the crew will be aiming to move higher on the West Buttress route to haul loads around Windy Corner 13,300 ft (4053 m). This day will take significantly more time and energy as it involves steep snow climbing up the 1,000′ high Motorcycle Hill rewarding climbers with spectacular views. The total distance for the day is about four miles round trip with a little over 2,000′ of elevation gain. Fun climbing with crampons and an ice axe will get them around Windy Corner where the upper mountain comes into view with a total of 6-7 hours of climb time.

Tune in again soon to hear how it all goes for them and keep your fingers crossed for good weather for our crew!

recording

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