McKinley Expedition: Breen and Team Move to 17,000ft Camp
Posted by: Jackson Breen, Lacie Smith, Raymond Holt
Categories: Expedition Dispatches Alaska
Elevation: 17,000'
Tuesday, June 9, 2026 - 11:04 pm PT
Our team woke up early this morning for the first time in many days. We packed up and moved from 14,000’ camp up to 17,000’ Camp. We walked up through the cold of the morning towards the fixed lines. After ascending the fixed lines we found ourselves on the West Buttress itself. And in all of my years I have never had such a pleasant day on the West Buttress. It was truly a day you dream about. We climbed in base layers in the sunshine weaving through the rocks looking down at 14 Camp where we started the day. It was not all sunshine and rainbows however, and the day had its fair share of struggles and suffering. After a long hard fought day we arrived at 17 Camp where we set up tents, made water, ate dinner, and prepared our gear for a summit attempt in the morning. Thank you for reading along and sorry I am not as entertaining of a writer as our climbers. We will check back in tomorrow with an update on our summit attempt!
Best regards,
RMI Guide Jackson Breen and Team
Comments (7)
Good vibes. To the top with safety, speed and style!
Love pops
Posted by: Pat Breen on
Bark bark bark bark bark, I am so proud of you <3
All 10 pounds of pom-chi-weenie body is signing for you.
Posted by: Winston on
We are excited for you all. Now, rest and replenish that energy. Great teamwork as always. Hugs to all. Looking forward to pictures to complement all the narratives. Go Team! Go Ricky!
Posted by: Tess on
Right on! Way to power ahead to 17K. You’re in a portion of the world that only 0.00000782% of the population will ever experience. A true testimony to this team’s grit and resilience. You’re almost there. Get good rest and help each other out. Awesome work!
Posted by: Ed DaPra on
Excited for all of you!! May it be a successful attempt and a beautiful visit at the peak! Thank you for taking care of each other.
Posted by: Beth on
Let’s go!!!! Huge accomplishment to get to High Camp. We’re cheering you on today for Summit Day!
Posted by: Team Kuhl on
Sending positive vibes for a successful summit!
Posted by: Lily on