Trip Reports
The team had beautiful weather today for their move up to the Plaza Argentina base camp. It was a bit over 6 hours of trekking to reach what will be their home for the next several nights. At base camp we have a big dining tent with tables and chairs and a cook providing great…
Guide Jacob Schmitz called to report that the January 6th Vinson Team is on the ice! Jim, Chuck, and Ariana left Punta Arenas early this morning, flew to Union Glacier on a big Ilyushin cargo jet, unloaded, then hopped on a smaller airplane, a Twin Otter, that flew them to Vinson Base Camp. They’ve come…
I spoke to both Allen and Nick yesterday, and they reported that the team made good time to Casa Piedra, “stone house,” the team’s second approach camp. Nick mentioned that it was a particularly windy day, but everyone is doing great and feeling good. Today the team plans to depart Casa Piedra, cross the Vacas…
Jacob called a little bit ago to let us know that everyone is back at High Camp, safe and sound. The team will rest, hydrate, and refuel for the journey back to Vinson Base Camp. Again, great work, team! And another special congratulations, this time to climber Bill Cole, who has reached the summit of…
Our fourth and final Mount Vinson expedition of the season is assembling in Punta Arenas, Chile, finalizing their preparations for an attempt to climb the highest peak in Antarctica. Jim Holliday has made the long journey from Pittsburgh, PA. Ariana Myers and Chuck Nuzum are making their way from California. Our good friend Dan Elsberg…
Today the team made its way up the Vacas Valley to camp at Pampa de Lenas, located at approximately 9,000 ft. The team followed the Vacas river for about four hours before reaching camp. Nick reports good weather (hot! 80 F) and good company! The team is in for a treat tonight for dinner. The…
The team’s perseverance paid off, and just a few minutes ago they stood on top of Mount Vinson, the highest peak in Antarctica. It sounds like the weather is holding steady, clear with a bit of wind. It was an especially sweet moment for the team because they enjoyed the summit all to themselves. A…
The team is doing really well, and making good time as they make their way to the summit. Jacob reports that it’s a beautiful day, with great visibility, and just a light wind from the north. recording
Jacob called early this morning to report a favorable change in the weather, and the team has made a decision to head out for another summit attempt. We’ll post an update when we next here from the team. Here’s Jacob: recording
The January 5th Aconcagua team enjoyed a nice dinner al fresco last night in the beautiful little town of Mendoza, Argentina. Argentina is known for it’s succulent beef and big red wines, and the restaurants in Mendoza do not dissapoint. Looks like the team building has already begun! Today the team will secure climbing permits,…