The June 13th team is tucked in tight at 17,200 feet (5,243 meters), bundled together like sardines in their expedition tents at Denali’s High Camp. After a massive day of climbing, the team moved confidently along the dramatic 16,000 ft (4,877 m) ridge — one of the most breathtaking sections of the West Buttress. With clear skies, low wind, and firm snow, they enjoyed nearly perfect climbing conditions and panoramic views stretching across the Alaska Range.

This stretch of the route, with its steep drop-offs and sweeping exposure, is both mentally and physically demanding — but the team moved smoothly, soaking up the surreal beauty of the ridge and the sense of momentum building toward the summit. Once they arrived at High Camp, they quickly got to work setting up their tents, reinforcing snow walls, melting water, and preparing a warm meal in the cold, high-altitude air.

Now, they’re tucked into their sleeping bags, recovering from the altitude gain and conserving energy. At over 17,000 feet, everything is harder — breathing, sleeping, eating — but morale is high and the team is feeling strong.

Tomorrow is a planned rest day to hydrate, eat, and monitor the ever-changing mountain weather. They’ll be looking closely at conditions on the route above: the Autobahn, a steep and exposed traverse requiring fixed rope travel; the Football Field, a wide plateau at 19,500 ft (5,944 m); and finally, the summit ridge — the last stretch before standing on top of North America.

This is the most critical part of the expedition, and the team is patiently awaiting the right window for a safe and successful summit bid. For now, they’re enjoying the stillness of high camp, watching the wind patterns, and dreaming of the summit. Stay tuned — the next dispatch could mark the final chapter in this incredible climb.

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