Nutrition for McKinley

This guide will help you prepare your meals, focusing on breakfast, lunch, and dinner, ensuring you have a balanced diet to maintain your strength and morale throughout the expedition.

Eating at Altitude

Eating at high altitude can be challenging due to reduced appetite and the physical demands of climbing. It’s essential to maintain a regular eating schedule and consume enough calories to sustain your energy levels. Opt for high-calorie, nutrient-dense foods that are easy to digest and enjoy. Staying hydrated is equally important, so drink plenty of fluids, including water and hot drinks.

Meals

Breakfast

A hearty breakfast is essential to start your day on the mountain. Breakfast should provide a mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats to fuel your morning climb. Here are some ideal breakfast options to consider:

Instant Oatmeal or Grits: Quick to prepare, providing a warm, comforting start to your day.
Cold Cereal (Granola): Easy to eat, even in cold weather, and offers a good mix of carbohydrates and fiber.
Bagels with Cream Cheese: A substantial option that offers carbs and fats, providing lasting energy.
Bacon and Eggs: If you have the means to cook them, they provide excellent protein and fats.
Breakfast Bars: Convenient and packed with energy, ideal for quick mornings.
Hot Drinks (Tea, Coffee, Hot Cocoa): Essential for warmth and comfort, helping to keep you hydrated and warm.

Lunch and Snacks

Mountain lunches are eaten during short breaks throughout the day to maintain energy levels. These snacks should be easy to consume without preparation or hot water. The key is to bring a variety of foods that you genuinely enjoy, stimulating your palate and encouraging consistent eating, which is vital at high altitudes where appetite can diminish.

Recommended Mountain Lunch Items:

• Bagels, tortillas, and crackers (Wheat Thins, Triscuits)
• Hummus, Pringles, corn nuts
• Smoked almonds, roasted cashews, GORP mix (peanuts, M&M's, sunflower seeds, raisins)
• Smoked salmon, fresh veggies (carrots)
• Salami, pepperoni, cheese (pepper jack, Swiss, cheddar)
• Jerky, candy (sweet and sour varieties), chocolate bars, hard candies
• Energy bars (Cliff, Luna), dried fruits (apricots, pineapple, pear)
• Personal drink mixes (Gatorade, Kool-Aid, Crystal Light, instant coffee, hot cider)

Dinner

Dinners on McKinley are designed to be hearty and satisfying, helping you recover from the day’s exertions and prepare for the next day. The menu typically includes fresh food, retort entrees, freeze-dried meals, and packaged items, ensuring variety and adequate nutrition.

Fresh Food: Vegetables, tortillas, and cheese provide a break from dehydrated meals and offer essential nutrients.
Retort Entrees: Fully cooked meals that can be heated in hot water, offering a convenient and tasty option.
Freeze-Dried Entrees: Brands like Mountain House or Alpine Air provide lightweight, calorie-dense meals that are easy to prepare.
Packaged Main Course Items: Ramen, Lipton Rice or Noodles, and macaroni and cheese are easy to cook and comforting.
Hot Drinks and Desserts: Various teas, cocoa, and simple desserts provide a satisfying end to your meal and help keep you warm.

Preparing for Your Expedition

Where to Buy Groceries

Plan ahead and purchase the bulk of your food before arriving in Alaska. Specialty items and your favorite snacks might not be available in local stores, so bringing them with you is best. Some perishable items can be bought en route to Talkeetna, but ensure you have everything you need to avoid last-minute shopping stress.

How to Divvy Up and Pack Food

Organize your food into daily rations, clearly labeling each package. Use durable, waterproof containers and bags to protect your food from the elements. Vacuum-sealed bags are excellent for keeping food fresh and compact. Pack heavier items at the bottom of your backpack and distribute the weight evenly to maintain balance. Pre-packaged portions help streamline meal preparation on the mountain, allowing you to focus on the climb and recovery.