Jared reported in last night- they carried a cache to 16,400' on the West Rib yesterday from their camp at 14 on the West Buttress in preparation for their ascent. Carrying a cache high on the route means the team will have lighter loads and be more acclimatized than if they had traveled up the Northeast Fork of the Kahiltna right away to start climbing the Rib. Of course, heading to 14 means extra travel distance and elevation gain, but Jared's strategy puts the expedition in an excellent spot and the team is stronger for it. Jared and Greg walked to the edge of the 14 camp basin yesterday as well to look down into the Northeast Fork for routefinding information as the NE fork is notoriously crevassed, and Jared was pleased to see a trail leading from 7,800'camp on the Kahiltna up the NE fork towards their route. A trail, if it's a good one, and if it sticks around for a few more days, will allow the expedition to move efficiently to their camp near the base of start couloir of the West Rib.
Today the climbers are taking a rest day to do the normal mountaineering rest day camp activities (eat, drink, nap, chat with neighbors, maybe write in a journal); tomorrow they will descend the West Buttress route and end up back at 7,800' camp.
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Hi, Markie, Just read where you are preparing for the final load carry to "Summit Camp." According to the itinerary this is a very spectacular and exposed site and that you will be building a fortress. What fun!! We pray for a safe and awesome climb to the top!! Oh, the beauty you must be experiencing! God be with all of you. Our love, Mom and Dad
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