Denali Expedition: Van Deventer & Team Reach 11,000’, Establish New Camp
Posted by: Pete Van Deventer, Tatum Whatford, Henry Coppolillo
Categories: Expedition Dispatches Denali
Elevation: 11,000'
Sunday, May 14, 2023 - 9:49 pm PT
The mountain reminded us how strong she is today and have us a good fight. We woke to sun and warm temps in camp and the beginnings of a beautiful day. We packed up camp and started moving uphill again to 11. At first we moved with better vis, views, and a little jump in our step. But as we walked the clouds from yesterday moved back in with a stiff wind and a lot of blowing snow. Quite quickly we had little visibility and following the tracks of previous climbers became quite difficult. But the team was warm, had all the gear we needed to move in the weather, so we marched on with the help of GPS. After a good battle and a longer day than anticipated, we made it to 11,000' Camp. Tents were a welcome sight but the battle wasn't over. We still had a few hours of camp constructing to do before we would be in our shelters. The team worked really well together and rallied it out, and now we are sitting snug In tents and sleeping bags, reminiscing about the day.
RMI Guide Pete Van Deventer
Comments (3)
Grateful for these updates. Sounds like a strong group. Sending you all lots of positivity!
Posted by: Chris's mom on
Thanks for the updates. Good to know that all is well.
Posted by: Louise Kennedy on
Good job team!
Thanks to the guides Pete, Henry and Tatum for keeping everyone safe.
Posted by: Lyds on