Denali National Park Mt. McKinley Expedition: Cifelli and Team Cache at 16,500’
Posted by: Dominic Cifelli, Mike Bennett, Ben Luedtke
Categories: Expedition Dispatches Mt. McKinley
Elevation: 14,200'
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Friday, June 20, 2025 10:02pm PDT
You must go up to go down, and go down to go up.
The team started the day with a simple yet efficient breakfast of cereal and coffee before donning their crampons, roping up, and beginning their walk out of camp at roughly 8:30 a.m.
The climb out of 14 Camp quickly gains elevation, built up by rolling slopes that offer brief stretches of reprieve before reaching the base of the fixed lines. A steep and icy headwall, the fixed lines provide both access to the upper mountain and a formidable challenge to anyone seeking passage. Installed each season by climbing rangers and maintained by guides, the fixed lines serve as a two-lane highway to Denali’s flank—the West Buttress.
The team made great progress, gaining elevation quickly as they found a rhythm in the often awkward and unfamiliar technique of fixed-line travel. After nearly 1,000 feet of “jugging” up various rope sections, the team broke through to the ridge, rounded a corner, and found shelter at the base of the Buttress—the high point for the day. Sheltered by rocky outcroppings, the team took a well-earned break while the guides collected gear to be left behind and dug out a cache.
Once the gear was stashed, the team turned and began the quite different, yet equally challenging, descent down the lines. Using arm wraps and steady footwork, they made their way down in a timely and stylish fashion.
Good snacks, a cozy tent, and the promise of a rest day awaited them upon return to 14 Camp.
RMI Guide Michael Bennet & Team
Comments (7)
Such an amazing experience and kudos to the climbing rangers and guides who install and maintain the fixed lines (had to look up what that is). 14,200 ft!! All your hard work and preparation is paying off and we cannot wait to hear more and see photos.
We’re all so proud of you, Mikayla and team!
Love,
Tante Mary
Posted by: Mary McKinley on
Hi dad -
It’s me wells. I’ve been missing you so much. I love you. I’m proud of you for doing hard work. It’s good that you’re okay. I’m about to go to bed, but I wanted to leave a quick comment. And I love you.
Love wells
Posted by: Wells hal on
The scenery must be unreal - good luck everyone - stay strong and healthy !
Posted by: Hanna on
Sounds like good practice. I can’t wait to hear all the details and see all the photos. Nate and Aspen, I am so proud of you. Stay safe and warm. Hope you get some good rest for the last push.
Posted by: Betsy Brunner on
Sounds like a difficult and rewarding day worthy of a rest day! I need a little rest just reading. You all are amazing! Onward and upward!
P.S. Mikayla we love you!
Posted by: Michelle DeMers on
Maverick and Nellie here again- we love hearing about your adventures, it’s awesome to know we have such a BA mom.
Keep going ya’ll!
Paws up!
Love Maverick and Nellie
Posted by: Christina Trombley on
You guys are so awesome! All of you! Keep it up. I get altitude sickness at around 10,000 ft, so I don’t know how you can do it, buts pretty awesome that you are.
Posted by: Earl Brunner on