Looking down the SE fork of the Kahiltna from Base CampWell, our last expedition of the season is off and running! This morning they packed up their kit in Anchorage and drove the 2.5 hours north to the small, end of the road town of Talkeetna, AK. They checked in with the National Park Service, completing the requisite registration forms and watching an eye popping PowerPoint presentation depicting all the ways climbers could get into trouble on Denali (actually is is a very informative presentation and much less gruesome than the old video the NPS used to show).
Formalities completed, they regrouped at the Talkeetna Air Taxi (TAT) office where they weighed all their packs and supplies for the flight to the glacier. As the weather was pretty nice, with only scattered clouds, the team was able to fly in to Base Camp, located on the Southeast fork of the Kahiltna Glacier at an elevation of 7,200 feet.
Base Camp is a breathtaking spot surrounded by peaks soaring a mile or two above your head. Denali looms more than three miles higher, framed off the east ridge of Mt Francis, to the north. The team spent some time soaking everything in, and then got to work establishing their camp and rigging their sleds for tomorrow morning's early start up glacier.
6 comments:
Hey Eric. Looks awesome already. I hope you charged your camera, I can't wait to see some pictures when you get back. I hope some of the music I gave you jazzes you up the mountain!
Bryan B.
Hey Eric! I can't believe you are at base camp. Africa is just a short 4 days away, but know that you and the team will be in my prayers from the other side of the world. May you each experience God's presence, guidance, strength, and care in each step of your journey. Much respect and admiration,
Kimm
Eric, the picture at base camp looks cold and beautiful. Mom says that she hopes you remembered to bring your "warmies"! As for me, I hope you brought a Partagas #1, along with a blow torch, to light it at the summit! Blessings to you, the teams and its leaders. Love, Mom & Dad
Hi Sonny,
May God bless you and each of the team members with the majesty and the beauty of His creation and protect each step you take. Love Mom & Dad
Hello Eric! Wow what a picture. Just read the narrative out loud so that everyone could keep up with you. I am sure the pictures do not do it justice. Alaska is one place I have always wanted to go. No climbing for me though. Remember He has a plan for you... to prosper you. Listen for HIs whisper of love. Mrs Bobby
Eric, I am glad to hear things are going well. Remember, it is just one step at a time and we are all here lifting you in our prayers. I know that this will be a life-changing journey for you! We are proud of you!
Marti
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