Today was a well-earned rest day for the June 5 team after yesterday’s big carry. Everyone’s gear is now cached above on the 16,000 ft ridge, setting them up for a strong move to High Camp tomorrow — weather permitting.
Yesterday’s climb took the team up the Sheridan Headwall — a steep, sustained slope that climbs straight into the sky. The ascent is demanding, both physically and mentally, with long sections of exposure and altitude gain. Beyond the headwall, climbers reach the fixed lines and get their first real glimpse of the upper mountain — raw, icy, and enormous.
Today, base layers dried in the sun. Packs were repacked. Calories were replenished. Laughter and anticipation filled the air as the team looked ahead to what comes next.
Tomorrow: the push to 17,200 ft High Camp.
And soon after — if weather and conditions align — a shot at the summit of Denali.
Around camp, everyone’s been dreaming aloud of what their ideal summit day looks like – tap the recording to hear from the team themselves!
