Entries By will ambler
Posted by: Dustin Wittmier, Will Ambler
Categories: Expedition Dispatches Mexico
A dozen bright eyed cyclops laboring through the labyrinthine network of undesigned trails, clinging to each breath knowing the next will have less to offer. A cough escapes. For some of us this is the highest we've been, for all, the highest in recent memory. More to go.
Many hours later our team reached the summit of Iztaccíhuatl under a warm sun and brilliant blue sky. No small feat. And neither was the return. Though the views of the day extended far beyond the dusty trail of the night. Deep glacial valleys whose soft rock has been reworked by more recent year's liquids- delicate degradation of cyclopean castle walls. A gently erupting neighboring volcano, dispensing its vapors toward the valleys below.
Now as we look back up through the haze, the bittersweet, almost somber, feeling of a difficult journey tholed holds the occupants of our van; pensive and grateful.
RMI Guide Will Ambler
New Post Alerts:
Mexico's Volcanoes November 8, 2025
"Hard weather says the old man. Wrap me in the weathers of the earth, I will be hard and hard. My face will turn rain like the stones." Cormac McCarthy
In our efforts of acclimatization our team enjoyed frosty wet winds, an in-depth tour of the grand interiors of a cloud. Our climbers bedazzled in rime; hooded migrants iced for a birthday. Happy birthday Nate! The summit of Volcan Malinche reached and no grand views but the middle floors of our gaseous estate. Soggy and satisfied we descended through scree, sand, and mud. Lungs and legs the better for it. Welcomed by the quadrupedal locals back to our interim homes at La Malintzi, we find the sub cloud world refreshing and rewarding. Another feast at 10,000 feet. Another cozy night in beds and cabins. Onward now to Iztaccíhuatl. Vamos viajeros.
RMI Guide Will Ambler
New Post Alerts:
Mexico's Volcanoes November 8, 2025
The Mexico Volcanoes team led by RMI Guides Dustin Wittmier and Will Ambler arrived in Mexico City on Saturday. The team headed out of the city the following morning to La Malintzi resort, located at 10,000ft. They enjoyed a relaxing afternoon and began their acclimatization process. Today the team stretched their legs and lungs on a hike to the summit of La Malinche, 14,636', it was cloudy and a bit cold. They will return to the cabanas at the base of the mountain for a second night. Tomorrow they will make their way to the base of Ixtaccihuatl.
New Post Alerts:
Mexico's Volcanoes November 8, 2025
Monday, September 1, 2025 - 4:19 pm
From RMI Guides Alan Davis and Will Ambler on the Easton Glacier: We caught a windy but stunning sunrise on the summit of Mt. Baker this morning. 100% of the climb reached the top. We are back at camp and plan to walk out tomorrow.
Congrats to the team!
Posted by: Jess Wedel, Alan Davis, Jackson Breen, Will Ambler, Dylan Anderson, Rosie Hust, Celeste Wilson, Erika Barrett
Categories: Expedition Dispatches Mount Rainier
Elevation: 14,410'
This morning at 6:15 AM, the Four-Day Climb teams, led by RMI Guides Jess Wedel and Alan Davis, reached the crater rim of Mt. Rainier. The teams were rewarded with perfect weather and improved route conditions, allowing for a safe summit experience.
After taking in the views and celebrating on the summit, the teams made their way back to Camp Muir. There, they took time to rest, refuel, and reflect on the morning’s achievement before continuing their descent.
Now en route to Paradise, the teams are expected to arrive back at RMI Basecamp later this afternoon.
Congratulations to today’s climbers for their determination, teamwork, and a successful summit.
Posted by: Leif Bergstrom, Ben Luedtke, Will Ambler, Mac Nolde, Fitz Elder, Kat Porter
Categories: Expedition Dispatches Mount Rainier
Elevation: 12,800'
The Four Day Climb August 16 - 19 led by RMI Guides Leif Bergstrom and Ben Luedtke reached 12,800' today before high winds and a descending cloud cap forced them to turn around. The teams returned safely to Camp Muir around 8 am. They will repack and continue the remaining 4,500' to Paradise later this morning.
Posted by: Will Ambler, Bailey Servais
Categories: Expedition Dispatches North Cascades
Elevation: 9,131'
RMI Guides Will Ambler and Bailey Servais led their team to the summit of Mt. Shuksan via the Fisher Chimneys route. The team enjoyed clear skies and a bit of sunshine as they climbed above the clouds. On the descent, a rainstorm moved in, making for a soggy finish. The team picked up the pace — even running at times — and made it safely back to the trailhead this afternoon.
Congratulations to the team!
Posted by: Dave Hahn, Will Ambler
Categories: Expedition Dispatches Mount Rainier
Elevation: 14,410'
At 5:45 am this morning, the Four Day Climb led by Dave Hahn and team successfully reached the summit of Mount Rainier. The climbers were greeted by clear skies and a stunning sunrise, making for a truly memorable moment at 14,410 feet.
The team reported encountering some wind while ascending the Disappointment Cleaver, but conditions improved as they neared the summit. By the time they reached the top, the winds had calmed, allowing for a peaceful and awe-inspiring views.
Currently, the team is on their descent, working their way back to Camp Muir. Congratulations to Dave Hahn and the entire team on a safe and successful summit!
Posted by: Brent Okita, Will Ambler
Categories: Expedition Dispatches Mount Rainier
Elevation: 14,410'
Congratulations to the Four Day Climb team led by RMI guides Brent Okita and Will Ambler for reaching the summit of Mt. Rainier!
With clear skies and breathtaking views, today’s climb was nothing short of spectacular. Huge kudos to the team for their determination and teamwork on this unforgettable journey.
Posted by: Will Ambler, Casey Grom, George Hedreen, Raymond Holt, Avery Stolte, Celeste Wilson, Margo Kerr, Erika Barrett
Categories: Expedition Dispatches Mount Rainier
Elevation: 14,410'
The Four Day Climb June 30 - 3 July led by RMI Guides Will Ambler and George Hedreen reached the summit of Mt. Rainier this morning. They enjoyed some time in the crater before starting their descent around 7 am. Will reported sunny skies and light winds. The teams will return to Camp Muir for a short break and repack, then continue the final 4.5 miles down to Paradise. They will conclude their adventure this afternoon with a celebration at Rainier BaseCamp.
Congratulations to today's climbers!
So stoked to be a part of this summit team! Thank you to all the guides! You all did such an amazing job keeping us on course and safe. I can’t thank you enough for this most beautiful experience!
Posted by: Michael Giardina on 7/19/2025 at 10:50 am
Congratulations Team for reaching the top. Take in the beauty.
Posted by: Maryann Marzo on 7/18/2025 at 3:31 pm
View All Comments