Mt. McKinley: Hahn & Team Descended 8,000’
Back down at 8,000 ft on the Kahiltna Glacier. We packed things up at 14K this morning with the usual mix of clouds and clearing. Nobody was looking upward any longer even though the peak was out. Our focus became getting down safely. We went into the clouds and murk as we came around Windy Corner. Walking in fresh powder with big packs and sleds was a challenge, but we were able to find the remains of a packed trail under the powder for much of the day. We took a good rest at 11k as we dug up our cache there and switched out crampons for snowshoes. Travel on the upper Kahiltna was much less complicated than the steep hills we began the journey with. We found excellent glacier conditions and even came out of the clouds a little below 10,000 ft. At the base of Ski Hill we set a quick camp, had dinner and dove in the tents for a few hours of rest. We'll give the glacier surface a chance to freeze up hard before we aim for the airstrip in the morning.
Best Regards,
RMI Guide Dave Hahn
On The Map
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Comments (9)
Mark, well done to you and the entire team for this endurance test. Sometimes the weather wins in this business. Your team fortunately had the best leader out there to give it the best shot, and still get you back safely. Aconcagua on my radar, and would be proud to do that with you some time in the future. Bill
Posted by: Bill Hill on
Dr. K -
I guess this means we’ll get to see you in class next week! Sorry to hear the summit remains elusive, but that just means it would like to invite you back for another expedition :) May you have a safe journey back to the airstrip and to Santa Barbara, and we all look forward to seeing you next week.
Soulful love,
O-Track
Posted by: O-Track on
hi solveig,
great attempt! what powerful pictures just as fabulous as the ones we saw at the museum…love you
xoxo
ts
Posted by: sigrid on
Dr K
The jacuzzi is fired up & waiting.
Posted by: Blackie on
On the way to a summit, I discovered my journey . . Homeward bound can be an unfolding. xoxoxoxo
Posted by: Genny on
Brian, we are anxiously awaiting your safe return. Sounds like the trip down is a little rough, but going ok. We can’t wait to hear all about it. We love you, Robin, Tristan and Connor
Posted by: Robin Bulatao on
glad you are all safe.
Posted by: michelle on
Mark: Sort of sad to see that you are coming down, but I know you and your team did the best you could.
Stay safe on your descent. Home Sweet Home soon.
Love, Mary
Posted by: Mary McDonald on
Mark, I’m glad to hear that you and your team are safe at 8K. The scenery is spectacular. Have a safe flight out, and look forward to seeing you home.
Posted by: Bob B on