Wednesday, July 2, 2008

Camp 1 7,800ft

They got up early this morning (1am) to get on the trail during the coldest time of day.  This time of year it is typical for teams to travel during the night on the lower Kahiltna glacier to miss the heat of the day.  This allows them to move while the surface snow is still frozen, and the slushy mess that it will turn into in the afternoon.  They travelled the 5+ miles up the glacier to reach their first camp at 7,800 ft.  The loads only get lighter as they eat the food and fuel that fills their sleds and backpacks.  

They spent yesterday reviewing glacier travel skills in basecamp, and preparing the sleds and gear that they are carrying up the mountain.  

10 comments:

dicka said...

Hey Mikey ~ you're at 7,800 ft or higher. What an exciting time for you as you live out your dream and achieve your goal. I hope you are taking plenty of pictures so we can share your excitment when you get back. Our prayers and thoughts are with you ~ we're proud of you. Your family from Maine. Love Dad, Mom, Matt

Breadwig said...

Eric, this all sounds so awesome! Rock on my friend, rock on!
Experience of a lifetime. Very proud of you.

Jensens said...

Hey Mikey - this is so incredibly awesome for you! I can't believe we can track your trip online. Stay strong! We are very proud of you. Love Ya!
Uncle Lew, Aunt Denise, Liv & Llew

Vanessa said...

Eric,
It sounds like your climb is off to a great start!! You are in our thoughts and prayers!
Vanessa

smokey said...

Keep on smoking Eric! Julia and Drew are at Popie and Gigi's, and will be riding their bikes in tonight's parade. They are fine and well and anxious to get outside! More later.

smokey said...

Daddy, i love you i miss you. me and drew are going to be in the parade tonight riding our bikes. love julia

smokey said...

DADDY --I LOVE YOU COME HOME WHEN YOU GET TO THE TOP OF THE MOUNTAIN. L ,.MVM,.VMDMVVMM,V,V,MVV,,V,V,MVM,M,VV,V,VM,,VMMV,V.VV.,VMMVMVMVMVMVVMMVMMV lOVE Drew

Anonymous said...

Hi Eric-Thinking of you- Hope you are having just a super time on the mountain making lifetime memories and friendships.
Bobbbbby

Kimm said...

Eric,

What an experience for you! You are greatly missed at home but are lifted up in prayer each moment. Drink it all in, cherish it all! I am so happy for you to have this experience.

Love,
Kimm

The Lindseys said...

Eric,

We are with you in spirit and send prayers that all will be well on your amazing adventure. You are living what many don't even dare dream. Congratulations! God be with you and your fellow climbers. Be safe and be strong. With love - Don & Jackie