Mt. McKinley: Van Deventer & Team Fly into the Alaska Range
Posted by: Pete Van Deventer, Geoff Schellens, Robby Young
Categories: Expedition Dispatches Denali
Elevation: 7,300'
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Thursday, June 20, 2013
We have begun! Talkeetna was warm and sunny this morning, with perfect weather for flying into the Alaska range. We had our last big breakfast at the Talkeetna Roadhouse, putting down heaping portions of eggs, toast, and reindeer sausage. Within an hour of finishing, we had the two Otters loaded up, and were climbing on board for takeoff. The scenery flying in is always stunning, and our excitement built as we watched the lush green swamp land give way to glacial toes, rocks, and finally, the steep and imposing walls of the Range. We had a great view of Denali, before banking sharply and descending to base camp. With record setting warm temps this week, we had to set camp at basecamp and wait to move until tonight to give the glacier time to freeze up. So we had a leisurely day of sorting gear, rigging sleds, and getting our kits dialed. It will be an early morning for us as we try to make it to the base of ski hill at 7,600 feet tomorrow before the sun turns on the heat!
We'll be in touch!
RMI Guides Pete, Geoff, Robby, and gang
On The Map
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Comments (4)
Buenas Guapo!
Looking forward to hearing how things went today.
The pictures are beautiful; so glad the sun is shining for your team.
We are thinking of you.
The Pets are all fine!
XO Guapa
Posted by: marion on
We’re eagerly awaiting more news about the climb. Michael, we’re thinking of you.
Mom & Dad
Posted by: Sara Doherty on
Hey Tom,
Awesome pictures so far. Carrie, Magnus and I are cheering for you and want to wish you much success! I was thinking of you as I actually took a client to the stairs this morning!
Be well,
Tim
Posted by: Tim Healy on
Hi Tommy, great to hear everything is going well! I pray you and the team are well rested for the day ahead. Can’t wait to hear from you! Lots of love and support from New York!
Rhonda
Posted by: Rhonda Kitchen on