Mt. McKinley: Jones & Team at 17,000’ Camp
We went to bed last evening to a blue bird sky after nearly 8 inches of new snow during the day. Today we woke to the same, blue bird weather and light wind. The crew broke camp at 14K fairly early, in good fashion, and headed on our way to the fixed lines. The clear sky made for a bone chilling morning until the major work up the lines started and we were greeted by the welcome rays of the sun, which warmed our souls. The West Buttress was windless and by far provided us with the best views and exposure the team has faced. The clear day gave us views over 10,000' below to the lower Kahiltna Glacier, while Denali stood proud and urged us higher. It was as good as it gets; in fact several folks said it was their best day climbing ever. We climbed for more than six hours so the the team is definitely enjoying some down time while trapping some evening heat in the tents.
With a bit of luck from the weather and wind we will shoot for a summit in the AM on the 17th. Thank you all for the warm wishes - the team has greatly enjoyed all the comments. Keep the positive vibes. We will report back soon.
RMI Guide Tyler Jones and team!
On The Map
More to Explore
Mt. McKinley: Haugen & Team on the Mountain
June 16, 2011
Mt. Rainier: June 17th - Summit Climbs on Top!
June 17, 2011
Comments (14)
Great news about the bluebird sky and good luck on the climb for the summit. Craig just to let you know Emma has been following you and the crew and now her 6th grade class are following your adventure and you and your team are included in their daily “special intention” prayers. The class will be following you on this blog. Good luck we are all so proud of you.
Posted by: The Doyles on
Congratulations to the whole team on reaching the summit. a special congrats to Tim and Justin. Our thoughts and prayers will be with all of you on your descent.
Love Pat and Lori
Posted by: pat and Lori Halls on
Congratulations Steve! What an amazing accomplishment!! I know you guys all worked so hard! Safe return home.
Posted by: Sophia Evanoff on
Steve!!! I’m so proud of you! Congrats on getting to the summit, and can’t wait to give you a big hug and hear all about it. Love you!!!
-Jess
Posted by: Jessica Doinidis on
We were watching the spot as you summited. Congratulations on you and the team. Safe returns.
Nick & Linda D
Posted by: Nick Doinidis on
Success!! Huge congrats to Steve and everyone else for summiting Denali/McKinley! Be safe as you work your way down into the thicker air.
Posted by: Dave Coe on
YOU ALL ROCK!!! Esteban - just keep swimming:) Stay strong, stay warm, and rock on! Good luck to ALL of you
From the Mitten, Steve’s lil sis, Ashleigh
Posted by: Ashleigh D A on
Dear Steven, OMG. Mom and I are working here at the office and we are so excited following the spot connect. March on everyone. Nick & Linda D
Posted by: Nick Doinidis on
You all are Amazing!!! It’s great that the weather has been so good to you. Paul, when I asked Devin, Ian and Emma what they thought of your trip they replied “Awesome!, Cool! and He’s brave”. I’ll be thinking positive thoughts for you all on your climb to the summit. Nancy
Posted by: Nancy on
AWE-some! What wonderful memories ya’ll are making and experience you are gaining. Thinking of each of you. May your happy adventures continue.
Happy hugs from Erik’s aunt Sallyjean!
Posted by: Sally Sommerdorf on
Congratulations, sounds like a great day of climbing! I’m in awe of the whole team. Good luck tomorrow for the push to the summit! I’ll be hoping for another blue bird day for you. Craig, I know you’re loving every minute, can’t wait to see you in Alaska next week and hear stories! Susan
Posted by: Susan on
Hope the weather was on your side today and made it the top. At the airport now. Much love to my Ben! Dot
Posted by: dottie on
Wowzers, you guys are motivated! I like it. Sending all my positive vibes for a successful spin to the top and back! Keep us updated please and stay warm.
Posted by: Amy Stevens on
Steve, Mom and I are giddy with excitement. Hope it happens today. Hey the other day, we took a night-time walk under the beautiful full moon. We thought, how cool if you were looking at that very same moon at the same time. Sounds like a movie. Till later. Love, Mom and Dad
Posted by: Nick Doinidis on