Denali Expedition: Smith & Team Make Difficult Decision to Descend
Posted by: Hannah Smith, Devin Guffey, Erika Birkeland
Categories: Expedition Dispatches Denali
Elevation: 11,000'
Wednesday, May 31, 2023 - 10:50 pm PT
Hello trusty readers,
Sorry for the gap in dispatches. Things got a little busy with logistics. We took two rest days at 14,000' Camp figuring out weather and logistics on who wanted to continue up and who wanted to go down. With weather being finicky most of the team decided to focus on getting off the mountain. For those that desired uphill movement it was the weather we needed to figure out. After many ominous forecast with only small windows of calm we decided our best option was to stay together as a team and make our way down the mountain. Its always a hard decision to go down, especially when you still have time. But sometimes, the cards just aren't in your favor. It's been a great trip even without the summit. We have made it back to 11,000' Camp and are taking a quick nap before we make our way to the airstrip. Tomorrow is suppose to be the best weather day so figures crossed we make it off the glacier.
Goodnight all,
RMI Guides Hannah, Devin, Erika, and Team
Comments (4)
Hey Hannah and Team,
That is a bummer but like you have always said, “its about the experience!”
Posted by: Dave Kestel on
To go as far as all the teams went is to say they made it to the top…like many who expressed…thank you for your wisdom in playing it safe. So impressed. Bethany ...you did a spectacular display of strength and determination and so many have expressed how inspired they are of your accomplishments. Looking forward to hearing details.
Love M❤M
Posted by: Jan L. Gray on
Thanks to the guide team for ensuring that Team Tatas made it safely back to the base camp. Will keep praying that weather cooperates so the planes can get in soon to pick up all of you soon. We are looking forward to seeing pictures, Anna, and hearing more details about your adventure.
Love, Mom, Dad, and Jax
Posted by: Kathy Hern on
Congratulations to the team for getting as far as you did, and well done making tough the decision to descend safely together!
Posted by: Jon Gill on