Mt. McKinley: Burns and Team Still Waiting….
Posted by: Seth Burns, Jackson Breen, Raymond Holt
Categories: Expedition Dispatches Mt. McKinley
Elevation: 14,200'
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Friday, May 30, 2025 - 7:57pm PDT
Waiting at 14,000
Our guides warned us that days at 14,000 feet could be among the hardest. Not because of the altitude, the vertical climbs, or the heavy loads—but because of the waiting.
Today, we hoped for a weather window to move to 17, the penultimate step in our push for the summit. Instead, we were sequestered in camp by wind and snow. Nerves and hopes for tomorrow run high. These are the days that can wear on you—but I am fortunate to be part of an intrepid, resolved, and collegial team.
I am inspired by you, my fellow climbers—by your humor and strength, your spirit of adventure and fierce determination, your perseverance and positivity. We came together by different paths, but we now share a common journey. When I falter, you wait. When you ascend, I cheer. We move together, always supporting, never judging.
I am equally emboldened by our guides—by their friendliness, focus, and vision. They work while we rest. They carry the heavier loads. Though their frustration with our poor packing skills and questionable foot care is sometimes apparent, their patience, calm, and capability give me confidence—not in the outcome, which even they cannot promise, but in the possibility. There are a thousand reasons—weather, injury, error—that any one of us might not summit. But these three remarkable people are the reason we can try.
I don’t know what the next few days hold. But I know this: the ten of us will face what comes together, as we have faced everything so far—one expedition, one team, one rope.
– David and team
Comments (4)
Take care of my sister! I love you Shannon. I am very proud of you.
Posted by: Mariah Phares on
In awe of Shannon and team for your resilience, determination and spirit! Following closely on Garmin.
Wishing you great weather and a safe climb from base camp.
Posted by: Jenn & Ted Tucker on
Very well said David! Reading these update blogs makes it apparent to all of us on this side of the screen that you all are working together as one amazing team, persevering, encouraging, and supporting each other on towards the common goal
of success! We are praying for the perfect conditions and timing for you all to summit.
Posted by: Theresa & Chris Mizer on
Stay strong team, you are in very capable, well trained and dedicated leaders that will do all they can to get you to the summit but only when it is safe and meant to be!
Posted by: Annemiek Kuik on