Mt. McKinley: Knoff & Team Descend to 14K Camp
Posted by: Adam Knoff, Mike Uchal, Zeb Blais
Categories: Expedition Dispatches Denali
This is Adam calling in from 17,000’ on Denali. We woke this morning to continued snow and wind, with a major low pressure system forecast to dominate the region over the next several days. We have endured this weather at high camp since Monday and have decided to descend back to 14K camp. Even the approach route, between 14,000’ and basecamp, can be a bear to navigate in foul weather, and we need to stay strong and focused. We’ll begin our descent of the West Buttress and the infamous fixed lines to reach Advanced Base at 14,200’ where Dave Hahn’s RMI party is encamped. We’ll check in tomorrow and advise everyone of our plans and progress.
RMI Guide Adam Knoff
Comments (10)
John and crew, Stay strong! I am pulling for the weather to begin to work in your favor. You have been so patient ....hang in there! love, dee
Posted by: Deann on
Nelson, sympathy for Mother Nature at 17,000 camp. I know you toughed out cold and wind, and I hope you can recharge and warm a bit at 14,000 camp. I know you may be disappointed, but few have ever been to 17,000 on Denali. Hang in there and maybe the weather will break and reward perseverance. Love you, stay safe. Dad
Posted by: Bill on
Here’s to smart strong men! Cheers! Denali is the one making the decisions right now and I see you have listened to her. Going back to a little more comfortable breathing level will only help to make you stronger for a second bid for the summit, if that is your decision.
Tim, you are with such good men. I am so proud of you! Keep your hopes up. Things can change in the blink of an eye. I love you so much! Your example to me is worth all the gold in the world! You are precious to me!’
I wish you and your team all good luck! Thank you for using your knowledge of this mountain to make safe decisions. We will continue to cheer you on!
I love you, Tim! Please be safe! Say Hi to Dave Haun for me at 14,000 feet. Have fun with everyone.
Always and Forever,
your Deb
Posted by: Deb McLaughlin on
Stay strong at 14k, keep eating, and Ii have no doubt you will rise like the fenix (phoenix) to take the top once this accursed weather departs.
-K2
Posted by: Ryan & Sarah on
Chris & Team, We’ve been with you on this challenge and continue to wish you safe journey.
Posted by: Karen Faw on
Chris:
Sorry to hear about the continued bad weather. Hope the weather gods look favorably upon the team as you head to 14,000 feet.
Posted by: Mom on
Nels… Keeping my fingers crossed for you. Miss you, bud. Stay safe and give that mountain hell! EB
Posted by: Erica on
Nelson,
I know that you are tired and disappointed. Stay tough and hopefully you will get a break. We are pulling for you from Beaver Lake. Love, Mom
Posted by: Jennifer on
D.G.
Safe climbing up and down the mountain. You’ll make it.
Mom
Posted by: caroline on
Fingers are crossed for good weather. Chris, Mac wanted me to tell you that “Waverly drank my mom’s coffee and Buster ate my lunch box.”. Keli hopes yor blue bags aren’t too heavy. I say you are the king of high hopes so long live the king!
Posted by: Ron Faw on