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Ecuador Seminar: Go With the Flow

January 15, 2013

Categories: Expedition Dispatches Ecuador

Yesterday we drove five hours south of Quito to Ecuador's highest mountain, Chimborazo. News from other local guides provided mixed information. We heard there was a bit of new snow on the route which contrary to popular belief actually makes the route safer. What we found was nothing of the sort. For many years the north side of Chimborazo has been melting making rockfall an increasing concern. Having a bad gut feeling I could not ignore, I spoke with the other guides and we decided climbing up with ten other climbers ahead of us was too risky on a route with substantial rock fall hazard. During the night two team members began having diarrhea and a guide threw up. I took this as a sign and began to reevaluate the situation. Over breakfast the guides laid out an alternative mountain that we felt would have a much better chance of success given the teams health and über challenging route on Chimborazo. A discussion was held and a difficult but good decision was made to abandon Chimborazo and go to Illiniza Sur. This will be a more technically challenging but safer and shorter climb. We are all a bit bummed to not be giving our main objective a shot but also psyched we are all still together. We leave the hostel tonight at eleven and will send word of the climb tomorrow. Stay tuned. RMI Guide Adam Knoff

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We are all watching your precarious adventures biting our nails from the coffee shop in Los Angeles. Worried sick that Clark will get a blister or lose his beauty sleep (he can’t afford to!). He said he was tired of walking the dog everyday but don’t you think this is a bit extreme, Clark?
Wishing you all safe passage home!
XO, from all of us here at sea level

Posted by: Ted Craig CJ on 1/16/2013 at 3:29 pm

Sorry to hear about the hardships but I had to go back to work today and that’s no fun either…haha I hope everyone feels better and you can all end the trip on a high note.

Posted by: Albert on 1/15/2013 at 3:33 pm

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Aconcagua: Justman - Guide & Chef Makes Pizza for the Team at Camp 1

January 13, 2013

Posted by: JJ Justman, Geoff Schellens

Categories: Expedition Dispatches Aconcagua

Elevation: 16,200'

Rest day at Aconcagua Camp One means only one thing. Pizza making day! You may be wondering, "How do you make pizzas at 16,500 feet"? Sorry, it's an RMI Guide secret. Today our team awoke to a fresh blanket of snow covering the entire mountain. It is a beautiful day to stay put and recover here in camp. Everyone is doing very well and we are feeling healthy and strong. The remainder of the day will see some of us playing cards, reading books and watching movies. Yes, it's rough living up here. RMI Guide JJ Justman

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We’re all fine at home. We’re pulling for you Jim and Todd. Love you, mother

Posted by: Amy on 1/13/2013 at 9:46 am

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Kilimanjaro: Tucker & Team Arrive at Barafu High Camp

July 21, 2019

Posted by: Mark Tucker

Categories: Expedition Dispatches Kilimanjaro

Elevation: 15,000'

A few clouds to the morning but after another nutritious breakfast we set out toward High Camp. We marched up the broad tilted plateau concentrating on efficient techniques in walking and breathing. Things steepened just a bit as we came to the final ridge. We all were feeling strong as we arrived in Barafu our High Camp at 15,000'. We enjoyed a great lunch and held a meeting about strategy for the summit bid. We are busy packing up for an early dinner, bed by 6 pm and wake up around midnight. The team is in great shape and can't wait to get started. RMI Guide Mark Tucker

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Outstanding! I am so proud of all you! Way to go Gabby, Sara and Charlie! You guys are absolute Rock Stars!!!

Posted by: Susie Yonkers on 7/22/2019 at 11:03 pm

Way to go! Can’t wait to hear all about your big adventure! Continued prayers for all.

Posted by: Mitzi Swift on 7/22/2019 at 6:55 am

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Denali Expeditiion: Haugen & Team Prepare For Move to 14,000’ Camp

June 24, 2019

Posted by: Mike Haugen, Jenny Konway, Grayson Swingle

Categories: Expedition Dispatches Mt. McKinley

Elevation: 11,200'

Sunday, June 23, 2019 - 8:50 PM PT What a beautiful day! We are so thankful that the weather has been amazing so far. We will definitely not be fooled into thinking that the mountain won't throw some weather our way soon! We had a long day bringing a bunch of food, fuel, CMC's, and extra warm clothing up to our next camp at 14,000'. The climbing was great and the crew had a good time. It was nice to be able to see Denali again since our view is obstructed at our camp at 11k. We all earned our afternoon naps before a hearty dinner of Tasty Bites Indian food with rice. We are all excited to move up to 14k tomorrow... if the weather is nice to us! RMI Guide Mike Haugen & Team Siete

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Dearest Meghan- How’s the blondtourage holding up?

xoxoxo

Posted by: Lisa Miller on 6/25/2019 at 2:13 pm

Happy birthday Zach and Ian! The optimum way to spend a birthday!!
Happy mountaineering to all.

Posted by: Kathy on 6/24/2019 at 9:21 am

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Mt. Elbrus: Grom & Team Travel to Cheget Via Mineralnye Vody

July 22, 2013

Posted by: Casey Grom

Categories: Expedition Dispatches Elbrus Southside

Hello again everyone. Today the team left behind the busy streets of Moscow and made our way south to Mt. Elbrus. It was mostly a travel day with a flight over the middle of Russia, which is predominately rural. It's very much like our own Midwest in that its mostly agriculturally-based terrain. We landed in Mineralnye Vody, which translates to mineral water in Russian, and is obviously known for its abundant natural springs. From there we rode in our local outfitters van for about three and a half hours to Cheget, a small ski town in the winter that sits at the base of this big mountain. Along the way we passed endless sunflower fields and many Mosques. The area around Elbrus is predominately Muslim from its original Turkish roots. We finished the day with a wonderful traditional meal cooked by a few kind older ladies that live here. Everyone is doing great and ready to stretch their legs tomorrow. RMI Guide Casey Grom and crew

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Vikas

Just wanted to check on you. Reply us back through Casey. Good luck

VILAS & CHAYA

Posted by: Vilas Lonakadi on 7/23/2013 at 10:07 am

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Mt. McKinley: Walter & Team at 14,000’

May 21, 2012

Posted by: Mike Walter

Categories: Expedition Dispatches Mt. McKinley

Elevation: 14,000'

Hello everyone from the 14,000' camp on Denali. We're taking a rest day today, in order to acclimate and get strong for our forays up higher on the mountain. After a breakfast involving lots of coffee and the universal favorite--bacon, we spent some time finishing off our snow walls at camp. The rest of the day was spent preparing gear for caching up high on the mountain tomorrow, as well as lounging around, reading, and eating. We're planning to carry supplies up high on the West Buttress tomorrow, in preparation for our move to high camp and subsequent summit bid. We'll be in touch again soon. RMI Guide Mike Walter

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Rich, thinking of you every moment. Go get ‘em. XO

Posted by: Christina Doren on 5/21/2012 at 4:30 pm

Hi Mike M!! Still rooting for you….and all your team!! Following your trek on the blog! Kick butt and take names!! Can’t wait to see the view from the top!

Posted by: Annette on 5/21/2012 at 2:12 pm

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Aconcagua: Luedtke & Team Climb to Camp 2

February 11, 2025

Posted by: Ben Luedtke, Hannah Blum

Categories: Expedition Dispatches Aconcagua

Elevation: 18,000'

The Fellowship of Climbers, bound by their quest to conquer Mount Doom (i.e. Aconcagua), set forth from Camp 1. Sauron (i.e. Ben), the dark lord of the mountain, led the way, his all-seeing eye detecting all possible overhead hazard.

Gollum (i.e. Yev) crept alongside, whispering "precious summit, we wants it, we needs it." Hannah, Jim, and Nick followed, their hearts steeled for the trials ahead.

As they ascended, the winds howled and the scree tumbled. Yet the Fellowship pressed on, driven by their quest to reach the unattainable summit of Mount Doom. At last, they reached Camp 2, weary but undaunted. The vastness of the mountain loomed ahead, but they stood ready to face its windy challenges."

RMI Climber James Loudin

New Post Alerts:
Aconcagua Expedition January 31, 2025

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The pics keep getting better and better! The only thing more awesome would be live video! When you all get to the summit keep an eye out for low flying 757’s.
John B. In Rhode Island USA.

Posted by: John Buckett on 2/12/2025 at 6:29 am

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Mt. Rainier: Four Day Climb Enjoys Clear Skies on the Summit!

July 28, 2023

Posted by: Casey Grom, Nikki Champion

Categories: Expedition Dispatches Mount Rainier

Elevation: 14,410'

The Mt. Rainier Four Day Climb led by RMI Guides Casey Grom and Nikki Champion stood on top of Mt. Rainier this morning! The teams reported clear skies and light winds on the summit. They are currently on their descent to Camp Muir, where they will pack-up and refuel. We look forward to seeing them at Rainier BaseCamp later this afternoon.

Way to go, climbers!

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Way to go, Casey, Nikki, and team! Congrats!

Posted by: Lee Hoedl on 7/30/2023 at 10:37 am

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Mexico: JJ Justman and Team Arrive in Mexico City

October 19, 2013

Posted by: JJ Justman, Solveig Waterfall

Categories: Expedition Dispatches Mexico

Here we are! Once again in Mexico City with another great climbing team. Yes, we are about to head into the mountains. However, one of the greatest parts about international travel is experiencing the sights, sounds, tastes and smells of the beautiful countries we visit. I'd like to disclose the name of the restaurant we had our orientation dinner. However, I cannot give away our secrets. How was it you may ask?....Amazing!!! And guess what! It only gets better! RMI Guide JJ Justman

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Mike H enjoy the climb! All of us back home on the beach sipping Margaritas!! Now thats a real vaca!!

Posted by: tom m on 10/21/2013 at 10:31 am

I got your phone message this morning, John P. Good luck from me and the boys!

Posted by: Sarah on 10/21/2013 at 8:54 am

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Mt. Shuksan: Geoff Schellens & Team Begin Their Denali Prep Course

August 25, 2013

Posted by: Geoff Schellens

Categories: Expedition Dispatches North Cascades

Hi all, Had a great first day on the Mt. Shuksan 6-day Denali Prep course. Jim and Joy showed up prepared and ready to go. After a gear check, and another cup of coffee, we headed out of town to the Shannon Ridge trail head. We started up the trail with sun on our shoulders, laughing about the 30% chance of rain. After a couple hours hiking we left the trees behind and enjoyed great views of Mt. Baker. With these views, however, also came the end of our laughter as we noticed dark clouds approaching. Though we did get a light rain in the last 1/2 hour before getting to the low bivy camp site, we had a great day. Jim and Joy are in good spirits and staying dry in there tent, currently discussing dinner options. We'll see what the weather gods have in store for us tomorrow. RMI Guide Geoff Schellens

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Most Popular Entries

Ecuador Seminar: Go With the Flow

Aconcagua: Justman - Guide & Chef Makes Pizza for the Team at Camp 1

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Kilimanjaro: Tucker & Team Arrive at Barafu High Camp

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Denali Expeditiion: Haugen & Team Prepare For Move to 14,000’ Camp

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Mt. Elbrus: Grom & Team Travel to Cheget Via Mineralnye Vody

On The Map

Mt. McKinley: Walter & Team at 14,000’

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Aconcagua: Luedtke & Team Climb to Camp 2

Mt. Rainier: Four Day Climb Enjoys Clear Skies on the Summit!

Mexico: JJ Justman and Team Arrive in Mexico City

Mt. Shuksan: Geoff Schellens & Team Begin Their Denali Prep Course

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New Post Alerts:Aconcagua Expedition January 31, 2025

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