Mt. McKinley: Okita & Team Experience Unexpected Storm
Last night as we were drifting off to sleep our first big storm with high winds and some snow hit us out of the blue. Even with the protective walls around our tents the winds were strong enough to buffet them and make you wonder how much stronger the winds would need to be to collapse them. But we had done everything right and all the wind served to do was keep us from sleeping as well as we might. Oh, and I guess it kept us from the summit once again.
My biggest concern was for our Posh tent that relies on a single pole to support the paper thin fabric of the body. But, thankfully, besides about 600 pounds of Snow drifted onto one side, the thing held up well. So, we're still in business with our dining/cook tent. And a good thing that was when Kristen brought out her deck of cards for a few afternoon games of poker.
Just some routine maintenance around camp, shoveling, repairing sagging walls, had us out for a little while after poker, but we're all back in the tents relaxing and even getting in a little sleep.
All for now from 17,200' (where we're waiting patiently for better weather to find us)
Until next time,
RMI Guides Brent, Leon and Lindsay
P.S. As I send this a few hours later the latest weather forecast indicates that Tuesday or Wednesday may bode well for an attempt. That's good because that's about how much food we have left for up here. But we'll have some major trail breaking to do given the snow, It'll be a du challenge.
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Mt. McKinley: Beren & Team Move to 11,000’
June 10, 2012
Comments (4)
Way to stick it out up there! Ive been off the mountain for almost a week now and was surprised to hear you guys were still up there! For all that you guys have endured staying at 17 that long I really hope you get a chance today or tomorrow, you deserve it!!!
Posted by: Evan on
Even when here in San Diego is COLD (68) I am a good sport and wish all of you the best Summit ever, Good Luck ~!!
P.S. Hey AA, I hope you have the car key over there !!!
Posted by: Paco Santoyo on
We all wish you good luck with a potential summit climb! XOXOXOXOXOXO Carin, Andy, David, Brian and Jordan
Posted by: The Parella Family on
Hang in there! I have been following your climb for some time now. Great news about the weather! You all deserve a chance at the top after holding out like you have. Best of luck!
Posted by: Johnathan Righetti on