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Posted by: Seth Burns, Jackson Breen, Raymond Holt
Categories: Expedition Dispatches Mt. McKinley
Elevation: 14,200'
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Friday, May 30, 2025 - 7:57pm PDT
Waiting at 14,000
Our guides warned us that days at 14,000 feet could be among the hardest. Not because of the altitude, the vertical climbs, or the heavy loads—but because of the waiting.
Today, we hoped for a weather window to move to 17, the penultimate step in our push for the summit. Instead, we were sequestered in camp by wind and snow. Nerves and hopes for tomorrow run high. These are the days that can wear on you—but I am fortunate to be part of an intrepid, resolved, and collegial team.
I am inspired by you, my fellow climbers—by your humor and strength, your spirit of adventure and fierce determination, your perseverance and positivity. We came together by different paths, but we now share a common journey. When I falter, you wait. When you ascend, I cheer. We move together, always supporting, never judging.
I am equally emboldened by our guides—by their friendliness, focus, and vision. They work while we rest. They carry the heavier loads. Though their frustration with our poor packing skills and questionable foot care is sometimes apparent, their patience, calm, and capability give me confidence—not in the outcome, which even they cannot promise, but in the possibility. There are a thousand reasons—weather, injury, error—that any one of us might not summit. But these three remarkable people are the reason we can try.
I don’t know what the next few days hold. But I know this: the ten of us will face what comes together, as we have faced everything so far—one expedition, one team, one rope.
– David and team
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McKinley Expedition May 13, 2025
Posted by: Mike King, Nick Scott, Gloria Roe
Categories: Expedition Dispatches Aconcagua
Elevation: 13,800'
On The Map
Another unforgettable experience! Looking forward to hearing all the details. Happy you are all safe and in good spirits.
Gloria, you’ll soon meet up with Michelle. How cool is that?
Love ya all the way from Kodiak,
Mary Ann, Peter, and Grace
Posted by: Mary Ann on 12/29/2018 at 12:14 pm
Hey Team,
You made an unbelievable climb and a great (albeit tough) decision.
Can’t wait to hear the stories from Neil Yoder! “Family Time” has been very quiet here!
We are so proud of you Neil, and all the rest of you who we will hear all about.
Karen
Posted by: Karen Epstein on 12/29/2018 at 9:13 am
On The Map
G. Barber, to think all this time Bruce has been carrying your stuff. What?!?! Cute chics, rum, penguins - craziness (I thought it was the intrinsic value of climbing that allured you.) Enjoying the trip reports and comments from loved ones. Remember: when in doubt, build snow blocks. Patience. Hang in there team!
Posted by: Kerry on 12/5/2014 at 7:59 pm
Hi Greg, sounded like a tough day, but the team made a good call. You have good time - stay safe, buddy.
All the best,
Bruce and Joyce
Posted by: Bruce Tocher on 12/5/2014 at 3:48 pm
Posted by: Seth Waterfall, Geoff Schellens
Categories: Expedition Dispatches Mexico
Seth Waterfall calls in from Tlachichuca.
Posted by: Billy Nugent, Walter Hailes, Katrina Bloemsma
Categories: Expedition Dispatches Aconcagua
Elevation: 19,600'
On The Map
Best wishes Mer and to all climbers! We’re so excited for you!
Posted by: Delese on 1/18/2014 at 4:48 am
Len and Dawn
We hope the weather cooperates for you and the team and you have an enjoyable and safe summit attempt. Good luck and we will be thinking of you.
Mom and Dad
Posted by: Jack and Sue on 1/17/2014 at 10:23 pm
Posted by:
Categories: Expedition Dispatches Kilimanjaro
Take care of my sister! I love you Shannon. I am very proud of you.
Posted by: Mariah Phares on 6/2/2025 at 12:46 am
In awe of Shannon and team for your resilience, determination and spirit! Following closely on Garmin.
Wishing you great weather and a safe climb from base camp.
Posted by: Jenn & Ted Tucker on 6/1/2025 at 8:42 am
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