Denali Expedition - Van Deventer & Team Fly onto Denali Basecamp
Posted by: Pete Van Deventer, Matias Francis, Chase Halbert
Categories: Expedition Dispatches Alaska Denali
Elevation: 7,300'
May 16, 2021 - 12:41 am PT
We hit the ground running today. At 8 am the weather looked good to fly, so we hustled to the hanger, changed into mountain clothes, and loaded gear on the two K2 otters that would ferry us to Basecamp. The flight in is always a highlight, as the tundra gives way to foothills, and then to the craggy peaks and ridges of the Alaska range, with cracked up glaciers carving channels between.
We took an hour or two to get our gear sorted, sleds loaded, and ropes setup, and then struck out from Basecamp to make our way up the lower Kahiltna to the base of ski hill. Often the first hour of moving with sleds has some hiccups, but not for us today. The group moved well, enjoying firm enough trail conditions that we could eschew the snowshoes.
We're settled into camp, feed, and tucking into sleeping bags for our first night in the mountain. We'll be in touch tomorrow!
RMI Guide Pete Van Deventer & Team
Comments (6)
Jason- Your structural engineering group is cheering you on from afar!! We miss you and look forward to hearing all about your adventures. Hope you’re not thinking of Camden Shops up there lol.
Posted by: Katherine Bemis on
Jason, All that tire pulling with Sully is paying off! You got this!
Lisa and Charlie
Posted by: Lisa and Charlie on
Hike safely. Enjoy the sun. Bring us back a rock. Take a deep breath! -Class of 2027 Blue Room
Posted by: mandy powell on
Have fun, stay warm, good luck! Is there a Chipotle on the mountain? From class of 2027, Gold room Mount Ararat Middle School.
Posted by: mandy powell on
YAY!!! So happy for you guys! Godspeed Pete & Team!!
Posted by: Kendra Madrid on
hi dad, i’m proud of you, call us when you can bye bye
Posted by: sophie powell on