Mt. McKinley Expedition: Storm Day at 14 Camp
Posted by: Dave Hahn, Bailey Servais, Sam Hoffman, Calvin Jiricko
Categories: Expedition Dispatches Mt. McKinley
Elevation: 14,200'
It snowed continuously through the night and all day. Finally, at six in the evening, it stopped, and we could see a bit more than a hundred feet in any direction. There was never a possibility of climbing today, so we made the best of a storm/rest day by enjoying a slow, leisurely breakfast in our dining tent. Afterward, we dug out the camp, took naps, and read books.
We managed to squeeze in a little training for the “fixed ropes” we hope to climb next. We practiced as the last snow fell and the clouds began to clear. That put us in a good position to witness the event of the day—a big avalanche roaring out of the Messner Couloir on the South Peak. We knew we weren’t in any danger from that particular couloir, but it was still sobering to be engulfed by the powder cloud thrown up by the slide. We’d heard several avalanches over the past 24 hours, but it was thrilling to actually watch one.
As we ate dinner, the clouds continued to melt away, and it was wonderful to be in actual sunshine again. Many of us found it hard to take our eyes off the mountain and all the fresh scars from sliding snow. We hope to climb the West Buttress in the morning, but that will depend on whether the new snow has had enough time to settle.
— RMI Guide Dave Hahn & Team
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Mt. McKinley Expedition, June 14, 2025
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Comments (2)
I can’t imagine how intense it must have been to witness something as powerful as an avalanche! Great to hear the trip has been so amazing!
Posted by: Lawrence Chan on
The majestic beauty of it all must be breathtaking. I have confidence that you’re in good hands and you’ll proceed only if it’s safe to do so. Sending positive vibes.
Posted by: Kari Servais on