The June 17th team flew from Talkeetna and touched down on the Kahiltna Glacier yesterday, officially beginning their Denali expedition. After landing at basecamp (7,200 ft / 2,195 m), the team traveled overnight to avoid the heat of the day and made great time up the glacier, arriving at Camp 1 (7,800 ft / 2,377 m) early this morning. This stretch includes the iconic Heartbreak Hill and offers the first real test of glacier travel with heavy packs and sleds. After setting up camp, the climbers settled in for a well-earned rest.
The afternoon was spent rehydrating, napping, and soaking in views of the surrounding peaks from their new home on the glacier. Everyone is healthy, in great spirits, and feeling strong. With gear systems dialed and morale high, the team is preparing for their next carry up to Kahiltna Pass (9,600 ft / 2,926 m) in the coming days. Conditions so far have been calm and clear — a great start for the June 17th team as they begin their steady climb along the West Buttress.
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