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Posted by: Alan Davis, Tatum Whatford
Categories: Expedition Dispatches Peru Seminar
Elevation: 18,655'
After two nights of being spoiled with plush mattresses and running water in the Llaca Valley Refugio the team put in a full day (16 hours) of climbing and was rewarded with a breathtaking sunrise and perfect weather on the summit of Vallunaraju at 18, 655 ft.
With only a few hours of sleep and some hot coffee and tea, we departed Vallunaraju basecamp with a classic alpine start at 11 pm. After a 3.5-hour approach on a rugged climber’s trail, we donned our boots and crampons and climbed a full pitch of alpine ice—a highlight of the climb. We then meandered through a maze of icy crevasses and steep snow until we gained the col between Vallunaraju’s north and south summits. The beautiful alpine sunrise provided the mental boost needed to gain the summit ridge and ascend the final 300 feet of steep snow to the summit. With only a breath of wind and smiles all around, we took in the views of the greater Cordillera Blanca and got a sneak peek of what’s to come in the Ishinca Valley.
We reversed course and began our descent in the sunshine, looking down at the city of Huaraz where a hot shower and bed awaited us. With tired bodies and full hearts, we were greeted with a bowl of hot soup and tea at basecamp. We then packed up our duffels and headed back to Huaraz via the rugged trail of a "road," thankful for a safe and successful climb.
The team enjoyed a well-deserved rest day in Huaraz, just enough time to unpack and repack duffels. Today, we are headed into the Ishinca Valley where we will establish basecamp for the next five nights. We will be focusing on climbing skills and resting up for more summit attempts.
RMI Guide Tatum Whatford & Team
New Post Alerts:
This morning, we left the comforts of the city for our tents at Orizaba. After a long day of travel, preparation, and a little bit of acclimatization, we will sleep at 14,000 feet. Tomorrow will be another early start, in the dark for our climb. The team feels good after a much needed rest day in Puebla! No one said the climbing will be easy, but we are hopeful for a good climb with the challenge of the mountain tomorrow ahead of us.
Posted by: Mike Walter, Robby Young, Lucas Haaland
Categories: Expedition Dispatches Mt. McKinley
Elevation: 17,200'
RMI Guide Mike Walter checks in from High Camp at 17,200 ft on Denali.
On The Map
At the moment with 5/31/2017 imagery you are visible on google earth.
Posted by: Tom Rodger on 9/1/2018 at 11:02 am
SO happy for you David and team! You remain in our thoughts and prayers. Cheers to a summit today! Safe travels down…
AK and Mom
Posted by: Ann Kathryn Scott on 6/1/2017 at 9:43 am
Thinking of you, Amigos!
Posted by: Laura Bryson on 1/13/2013 at 7:08 am
Posted by: JJ Justman, Seth Waterfall
Categories: Expedition Dispatches Elbrus Northside
Matt. Everyone is praying for your safety and successful expedition. We love you and look forward to seeing you soon. Mom & Dad.
Posted by: molly on 8/26/2012 at 1:06 pm
Posted by: Billy Nugent, Elias de Andres Martos
Categories: Expedition Dispatches Mount Rainier
Elevation: 14,410'
Congratulations Chris to you and the entire team. We are very proud of all of you.
Posted by: M&D on 7/26/2012 at 8:51 am
GO J! I am so proud!
Posted by: Brittany on 7/26/2012 at 2:06 am
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Categories: Expedition Dispatches Mexico
Posted by: Tyler Jones, JM Gorum, Ross Morgan, David Price
Categories: Expedition Dispatches Mount Rainier
Elevation: 14,000'
JJ Justman and team send their holiday wishes to family and friends.
On The Map
Cindee….Merry Christmas Cindee!!! Better late then never. It took me a little while to figure this blog thing out(I guess your niece is right). Thank you for my gifts. I love them bunches. I was not expecting the one thing. That would have been enough. Wishing you and your team a Happy New year and a safe trip. Will talk to you when you are off the mountian. GO TEAM GO!!!!!
Big Sis
Posted by: Sandy on 12/26/2013 at 2:53 pm
Hey Bro! Good to hear from you. We’re all really proud of you. Huddy wanted me to remind you that 3WC will always be behind you! Merry Christmas,
-Love John, Maria, and Cam.
Posted by: John Keaney on 12/25/2013 at 8:37 pm
Such great news! Hooray!
Posted by: Suzanne Ryning on 8/13/2019 at 9:09 am
Congratulations team, great to hear!
Posted by: Kelly Tipson on 8/13/2019 at 8:42 am
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