McKinley Expedition: Luedtke & Team Learning Patience
Posted by: Ben Luedtke, Mike Bennett, Avery Stolte
Categories: Expedition Dispatches Alaska
Elevation: 14,000'
Thursday, June 25, 2026 - 12:55 am PT
Denali Dispatch 6/24/26
Thoughts on Patience:
As Ben says, if this mountain teaches you anything it’s patience.
Patience with the weather, with the conditions and with each other. It’s easy to forget on the days of warm sun, calm winds and endless views that Denali isn’t always this way. That she can change her mind in a moments notice and have you walking in circles from whiteout conditions and cursing her tent rattling winds as you try and sleep.
But one way or another patience always pays off. To remeber that the sun is always shining somewhere above the clouds and that these glaciers and rocks have been here long before us patiently observing each passerby. Our time on this mountain is short in the grand scheme of things and I know everyone here will soon miss the simplicity of life on Denali. The rhythm we have found over leisurely breakfast conversation, camp walks, reading, writing and excess games of M-deal. Our time here is utterly human- working as a team to do what we need to survive.
So as today marks day 8 of being at 14,0000' Camp and waiting to see when the mountain will invite us higher. We once again practice patience. Waiting in this jaw dropping alpine amphitheater for the mountain to tell us we have been patient long enough and it’s our turn to try and touch the top.
So as we get excited and motivated to move higher. We must remeber to move at rhythm of the mountain slow and steady. Observing, listening and being. Always remembering that in a moments notice she can decide to test our patience once again.
It is such a privilege to be among these echoing cliffs and snowy spines and I’m so proud of our team for keeping their spirits high among the waiting game. There is so much time to still be had here and I feel lucky I get to practice my patience with each and every one of you.
Now let’s patiently wait to see what tomorrow brings!
With love from 14k camp,
RMI Guide Avery Stolte and team!
New Post Alerts:
McKinley Expedition, June 9, 2026
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Comments (3)
Thanks for the update, Avery and the much needed reminder of the value of patience! This adventure is killing me (lol that was for Jimmy)!
I am patiently waiting for the amazing stories and breathtaking pictures, the lessons learned and transformations made.
Avery I’m so glad you are there and literally guiding the way!
Keep up the great work!
All my love,
Kier
Stay safe, stay SUPER SHARP!
Posted by: Kierstin Decicco on
Beautifully put Avery! I’ve been so enjoying reading along the team dispatches and I hope you guys get the chance at the summit soon! I’m sure when you’re on your way to 17k and higher you’ll be missing the rest you’re enjoying now. Nick and Matt; Britton Hill Climbing Club forever!
Posted by: Pattie on
As they always say patience is a virtue! The mountain is giving you time to take in all that she has to offer so whether it’s the snow wind or the sunny blue skies, you’ll remember each and every part! We love you stay safe and keep reaching for the summit!
Posted by: Aunt Sandy and Sas on