Mt. McKinley Expedition: Okita and Team Sitting, Waiting and Wanting
A plastic jar of moonshine was brought out to the cheers of the 60-70 climbers lounging about, usually draped across some part of their gear. It was drained quickly.
Earlier in the morning the skies looked dismal for planes to fly in, but as the morning progressed the weather outlook followed suit. And sure enough, another flight service got in using their ILF equipment to be able to take off and land in the fog of Talkeetna, something no other Denali plane has. So we watch expectantly for K2, our flight service to get into action soon. After a number of flights by TAT and another service we heard that K2 had turned back, not willing to risk flying into the clouds around the glacier near the airstrip. Our faith that our ride home is coming fades and frustration mounts while watching TAT customers get flown out for well over an hour. And now, a thick ground fog has enveloped the airstrip here on the SE fork of the Kahiltna Glacier. It's 4:30 and my generally optimistic outlook is certainly not what is was a few hours earlier.
But I've seen this story develop in the past. Many times I've been on the winning side of the situation, looking at climbers awaiting rides while I was on my way to a hot shower and cold beer. But today that is not the case. And it's not the fault of the pilot who turned back either. He simply refused to take the chance the other pilots did - the chance of crashing the plane with me and my group on board. So, we wait...
A couple of climbers entertain us with some blues ukulele and harmonica. Ipods are out, as are books that have yet to be finished, as we all try to relax and will the fog away. Thoughts of dinner in Talkeetna are being replaced with thoughts of putting tents back up. But, we still have plenty of time. So we wait, as do you, for our return home.
In the meantime, the flavor of moonshine lingers softly on my palate, leaving me wanting...something more.
RMI Guide Brent Okita
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Mt. McKinley Expedition: Hailes & Team at 14,200’
June 2, 2011
Comments (5)
Brent, sorry to hear that the weather keeps you guys, as well as a pilot, stranded. Tell the rest of the team that I have a 5 pack of beers waiting for them in Talkeetna. -Steve
Posted by: Steve Vierling on
Hi Zac! I hope you are taking advantage of the time to read. The girls are so excited to see you I don’t think they’ll give you a second of free time when you get home. We just arrived at my mom’s house, so give us a call there when you get access to your cell phone. Miss you like crazy. Love, M, T & B
Posted by: mary candelario on
Hang in guys - you are on the winning side already as you have had such an amazing trip! We will wait as long as it takes so please be careful and do not take a risk now.
Tsiom, Dina is supposed to be landing in an hour so I am leaving for the airport now. Call me as soon as you have access. Love you very much and can’t wait to see you!
Posted by: Marina on
Hang in there, you all you will be home safe and sound soon enough. You know we all want you home safe. sweet dreams and Maile I love you
xoxo Mom
Posted by: ginny myers on
HW: At least you have some entertainment while waiting for the plane. I’d rather you guys be safe than trying to rush home early. We are all doing well. Hoping for better weather tomorrow on Fri for you guys. -Love, F
Posted by: F on