Denali Expedition: Hahn & Team Retrieve Carry and Train at 14,000’ Camp
Posted by: Dave Hahn, Hannah Smith, Avery Parrinello, Nikki Champion
Categories: Expedition Dispatches Mt. McKinley
Elevation: 14,000'
Thursday, June 28, 2018 - 10:32 PM PT
Our first night at 14,000' Camp was quiet and calm. The tent fabric didn’t stir even once with breeze. We were up at around 8AM even though things are still a little shadowy and cold here then. After breakfast, Avery Parrinello led the day’s carry, or more accurately the back carry, since we were going back down to 13,500 ft to bring home the cache we walked past yesterday. It only took about 20 minutes to walk down, but perhaps 90 minutes to come back up with heavy packs. As usual, it clouded up and began snowing on us before we’d gone too far, but that wasn’t much of a problem. The snow continued through the afternoon, but by then we were lounging in our tents. Just before dinner we did a little training session to discuss techniques we’ll employ to climb the “fixed ropes” that lead to the crest of the West Buttress. Throughout the day we touched base with the only other RMI group on the hill, Mike Haugen’s team who were going for the top. It all made our preparations a bit more meaningful to know we’ll be up there knocking on the door soon ourselves.
Best Regards,
RMI Guide Dave Hahn
Comments (4)
J and M-
Thinking of you guys often from sunny/hot Wisconsin. While we soak up the lake views we imagine the mountain scapes before you. (We also think about getting some fresh turns in that powder.)
Enjoy the challenge and the sounds of nature. Wish you the best.
The Merkleins
Posted by: Merklein family on
Hey Tom! Awesome job so far! I’m torked up to hear about the fixed lines when you get to the next camp. I wish I was on your team brother!
Posted by: Dave Kestel on
Hi Dave and Joy Mckee,
We’re loving the pictures from Los Angeles and wishing you all a successful journey of mind and spirit.
All our best,
Nwabudike, Alison, and Erica G.
Posted by: Nwabudike Washington on
Dave- I hope you are starting all your epic stories with “it wasn’t entirely my fault”. Looking forward to Antarctica in 5 months.
Matt
Posted by: Matt on