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Thank you!
Friday, May 6, 2011
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Trekkers Reach Everest Base Camp!
April 6, 2011
Overnight at Everest Base Camp
We made it! After a few gut-crunching days on the trail, and having our final goal in sight for an hour or so, we arrived at the base camp 'rock' ....the much decorated point where you know you've 'made it'! Pat yourself on the back, throw out the high fives and reflect on the satisfaction of being exactly where you want to be. It may not be on-top of Everest, but for us it was the pinnacle of our hopes and achievements. And now time to relax...and that would be easier if it wasn't 15F at night. After eating dinner in the oft seen dining tent, we retreated to our 2-person expedition tents for what was a surprisingly warm and 'comfortable' night's sleep .... except for the kamikaze walk to the 'bathroom'. But this is the roof of the world, what can one expect?
--Chris Underhill, trekker
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Everest Base Camp Under Construction
Trekking in March/April to Everest Base Camp is a fascinating time because you can see the "city" come to life. All along the trail, we have passed yak caravans and porters bringing up supplies. Everything--from dining chairs and plastic flowers to refrigerators and generators--has to be carried for days to construct this temporal abode. Sherpa staff carve out platforms on the glacier with axes and sledgehammers, and more tents appear day by day. The city slowly grows. Climbing teams share the trail with us, and where we turn homewards, their adventure has only just begun!
--Deana Zabaldo, Mountain Madness Guide
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April 7, 2011
Everest Base Camp--Rise and Shine!
What a spectacular morning awaited us at Everest Base Camp! Bright sunlight made the Khumbu Icefall stand out in all its terrifying glory.... We're thankful that the way back to Lukla doesn't require a trip across this formidable obstacle. After breakfast, we started our journey back, retracing our labored footsteps, but this time with a skip in our step, knowing full well that a 5,000 foot elevation drop would be achieved the next 48 hrs. Back near Namche Bazaar, we finally wallowed in the satisfaction that we indeed did make it. Many personal long-held goals were sated. Many questions as to where next? For this traveler a few days, weeks, or months back home reflecting on this experience will be necessary before knowing how to trump this incredible journey. Thank you Mountain Madness!
--Chris Underhill, trekker
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April 8, 2011
Eating Well!
Being a celiac (gluten-allergic), I was a little concerned about the meals provided on the trip. From day one I was pleasantly surprised. Little did I know that buckwheat is a locally grown crop and they are very experienced in cooking with it. I did not feel left out during the meals, and in fact, I was envied by many of the other trekkers. Pancakes, noodles, and special soups were all prepared gluten free for me. Thanks much to the talented cooks!
--Damon Yuhasz, trekker
Check out this video of the Base Camp kitchen
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April 9, 2011
Awestruck In Nepal
I am awestruck by the mountains, nepali people and spiritual life. Many amazing events have happened on my trip. I've seen the most beautiful landscape, at night seen a million stars, and for fun played dice with our nepali sherpa's. One of the most memorable events of this trek is getting to know our local porters and sherpas. In the day they lead us through the himalayan mountains, at night we play dice and laugh a lot. Our guide Deana has done a great job guiding us and helping us to get to know the Nepali's much better.
The mountain of Nepal are rich in culture, beauty, and SMILES!!
--Susan Wojie, trekker
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April 10, 2011
Making Dreams Happen
As magical as the climb to base camp is with the most majestic mountains anyone has ever encountered, it would not have been nearly as fulfilling had we not had Deana, our exemplary guide. Deana brings the place ALIVE, with her stories of the local people, their lives, their culture, their fascinating history, and their religion. We could not have imagined a better trip or a better guide! Thank you Mountain Madness and Deana. A Dream Come True!!
--Jenny and Wayne Miller, North Carolina, trekkers
Overnight at Everest Base Camp
We made it! After a few gut-crunching days on the trail, and having our final goal in sight for an hour or so, we arrived at the base camp 'rock' ....the much decorated point where you know you've 'made it'! Pat yourself on the back, throw out the high fives and reflect on the satisfaction of being exactly where you want to be. It may not be on-top of Everest, but for us it was the pinnacle of our hopes and achievements. And now time to relax...and that would be easier if it wasn't 15F at night. After eating dinner in the oft seen dining tent, we retreated to our 2-person expedition tents for what was a surprisingly warm and 'comfortable' night's sleep .... except for the kamikaze walk to the 'bathroom'. But this is the roof of the world, what can one expect?
--Chris Underhill, trekker
The Everest Base Camp marker - we made it!
The stunning Khumbu Icefall sprawls before us.
What a great team! Sherpas and Mountain Madness trekkers on the Khumbu Glacier.
----------------------------------------------
Everest Base Camp Under Construction
Trekking in March/April to Everest Base Camp is a fascinating time because you can see the "city" come to life. All along the trail, we have passed yak caravans and porters bringing up supplies. Everything--from dining chairs and plastic flowers to refrigerators and generators--has to be carried for days to construct this temporal abode. Sherpa staff carve out platforms on the glacier with axes and sledgehammers, and more tents appear day by day. The city slowly grows. Climbing teams share the trail with us, and where we turn homewards, their adventure has only just begun!
--Deana Zabaldo, Mountain Madness Guide
Everything - and I do mean EVERYTHING - has to be carried into the mountains:
a generator, lumber, a refrigerator, food, and more!
The temporary "city" of Everest Base Camp comes to life in March and early April.
----------------------------------------------
April 7, 2011
Everest Base Camp--Rise and Shine!
What a spectacular morning awaited us at Everest Base Camp! Bright sunlight made the Khumbu Icefall stand out in all its terrifying glory.... We're thankful that the way back to Lukla doesn't require a trip across this formidable obstacle. After breakfast, we started our journey back, retracing our labored footsteps, but this time with a skip in our step, knowing full well that a 5,000 foot elevation drop would be achieved the next 48 hrs. Back near Namche Bazaar, we finally wallowed in the satisfaction that we indeed did make it. Many personal long-held goals were sated. Many questions as to where next? For this traveler a few days, weeks, or months back home reflecting on this experience will be necessary before knowing how to trump this incredible journey. Thank you Mountain Madness!
--Chris Underhill, trekker
Sherpas and climbers on the Khumbu Glacier
Our group hikes out across the glacier, returning down through base camp,
and heading back to warmer climes.
Back on firm ground and heading down towards Lobuche Pass.
---------------------------------------------
April 8, 2011
Eating Well!
Being a celiac (gluten-allergic), I was a little concerned about the meals provided on the trip. From day one I was pleasantly surprised. Little did I know that buckwheat is a locally grown crop and they are very experienced in cooking with it. I did not feel left out during the meals, and in fact, I was envied by many of the other trekkers. Pancakes, noodles, and special soups were all prepared gluten free for me. Thanks much to the talented cooks!
--Damon Yuhasz, trekker
Check out this video of the Base Camp kitchen
---------------------------------------------
April 9, 2011
Awestruck In Nepal
I am awestruck by the mountains, nepali people and spiritual life. Many amazing events have happened on my trip. I've seen the most beautiful landscape, at night seen a million stars, and for fun played dice with our nepali sherpa's. One of the most memorable events of this trek is getting to know our local porters and sherpas. In the day they lead us through the himalayan mountains, at night we play dice and laugh a lot. Our guide Deana has done a great job guiding us and helping us to get to know the Nepali's much better.
The mountain of Nepal are rich in culture, beauty, and SMILES!!
--Susan Wojie, trekker
Trekker Susan Wojie feeling strong on her return down the valley.
Mecsi Aron photo
----------------------------------------------
April 10, 2011
Making Dreams Happen
As magical as the climb to base camp is with the most majestic mountains anyone has ever encountered, it would not have been nearly as fulfilling had we not had Deana, our exemplary guide. Deana brings the place ALIVE, with her stories of the local people, their lives, their culture, their fascinating history, and their religion. We could not have imagined a better trip or a better guide! Thank you Mountain Madness and Deana. A Dream Come True!!
--Jenny and Wayne Miller, North Carolina, trekkers
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Crevasse Rescue on Rainier
Our Northwest Season is starting to kick up some speed! We've had two Crevasse Rescue courses take place so far on the slopes of Mt. Rainier and another scheduled on May 7. We will add another scheduled course if demand is high. One client, John Escher, shared his reflections of the course:
April 2, 2011
We all need more stories that start with, "Remember when..." and finish with a head shake and, "that was wild." Thankfully, we received one of those days this past Saturday on her majesty Mount Rainier's sloping shoulders.
Joining a small group of similarly-minded-over-eager-wannabe mountain climbers, we took to the hills for a one day overview of crevasse rescue with renowned guide service Mountain Madness.
With the grace of a bulldozer, Rainier delivered a spring slap to the face with 20 degree temperatures, heavy winds, and nearly whiteout conditions. This, of course, didn't faze our faithful guides one bit, and they delivered a top-notch training performance with enthusiasm and patience. I don't know what they pay these guys, but they're worth every penny. Thanks to Jason Broman and Chris Petry for the knowledge and a memorable day.
- John Escher
April 2, 2011
We all need more stories that start with, "Remember when..." and finish with a head shake and, "that was wild." Thankfully, we received one of those days this past Saturday on her majesty Mount Rainier's sloping shoulders.
Joining a small group of similarly-minded-over-eager-wannabe mountain climbers, we took to the hills for a one day overview of crevasse rescue with renowned guide service Mountain Madness.
With the grace of a bulldozer, Rainier delivered a spring slap to the face with 20 degree temperatures, heavy winds, and nearly whiteout conditions. This, of course, didn't faze our faithful guides one bit, and they delivered a top-notch training performance with enthusiasm and patience. I don't know what they pay these guys, but they're worth every penny. Thanks to Jason Broman and Chris Petry for the knowledge and a memorable day.
- John Escher
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Adventurous Season in Nepal Begins!
Our first Everest Base Camp Trek of the season is underway! We've got quite a few great trips lined up in Nepal this year. With four scheduled Everest Base Camp Treks, two Island Peak climbs, a Khumbu Icefall expedition and an Everest View Trek, which is great for trekkers with limited vacation time. Gaspar Navarrete, a favorite Ecuadorian guide, will be joining forces with guide Deana Zabaldo later this month for an Everest Base Camp Trek, followed by an Island Peak climb with a father-son team. We are all very excited about the great treks ahead of us! Check out the adventures of the current EBC trip, as both Deana and climber Chris Underhill sent us a great update of the trip so far!
29 March 2011
A journey doesn't always begin as expected. During orientation in Kathmandu, we went around the room with introductions. I am always impressed by how many people say they have spent 10, 20, 30 years dreaming of a trip to Everest Base Camp. Now here we all were together, thirteen clients and myself, full of adventure, anticipation...in hiking boots and warm gear...ready for the trail! We were ready to fly, sitting in the shoddy domestic airport since 5am waiting for a flight to Lukla, gateway to the Everest region. No flights were leaving though. The Khumbu winter has been unusually late in departing this year, and Lukla--one of the most dangerous (and exciting!) airstrips in the world--has been covered in clouds off and on for the past few weeks. No trail for us that day. Travel anywhere, but especially travel in Nepal, requires a healthy dose of flexibility.
We waited all day in the airport to no avail. The rain and clouds in Lukla did not abate. I juggled itinerary plans, last-minute hotel rooms, and flight rescheduling, and we all returned to the comfort of the famous Yak and Yeti hotel for an extra night in Kathmandu. One of Nepal's most common phrases is "Kay garnay?". Literally "what can you do?", it's so ubiquitous because there's always some reason to say it here! Weather in Lukla is terrible, again? What can you do? You wander out to explore the temples and shops of the city, and hang on to your optimism for tomorrow.
The next day we were lucky. Our staff pulled strings to get us on the very first flight of the morning, so we were at the airport at 5am, luggage piled up on the scale, checking the weather reports for Lukla. Fate was smiling on us, and the weather cleared. We soared over mountains, circled around twice for staggering Himalayan panoramas, and dropped in to the short Lukla airstrip before 8am. We easily made up the lost afternoon and were right back on track for our trek. Lucky, indeed. Nepal is an unpredictable place, which is part of what keeps it interesting!
31 March 2011
Today, we arrived in Tengboche and went to visit the area's largest monastery. Ornately painted in colorful pink, orange, yellow, green, and blue, the prayer hall is filled with images of the Buddha, chanting monks, and a thin veil of incense. When the deep tones of afternoon prayers had ceased, we were ushered into the private quarters for the monastery's head lama. In Kathmandu, we bought prayer flags to string at Base Camp and at Scott Fischer's memorial, but the flags must first be blessed. The lama chants and throws handfuls of rice in his small wood-paneled room as we sit on carpeted benches and squeeze against enormous copper bowls.
When the rites are complete, he blesses each of us on our journey with a thin red thread to tie around our necks and silky white blessing scarves around our shoulders. We duck our heads through the gate, step back out into the meadow of Tengboche, and head off to our warm teahouse, ready to head further up the Khumbu valley in the morning.
Dingboche, Saturday April 2nd
From Chris Underhill, Phoenix, AZ:
It is difficult to refrain from saying, "Look!", "Look at that!" as you pass yet another OMG moment, as the scenic views you have only experienced on YouTube or Google, appear before your very eyes. This is only at 14,000 ft. Imagine the delights on approaching base camp--our (and many others') ultimate destination. Mountain Madness has ensured our safety, "guaranteed" (well almost) incredible morning weather for hiking and photography, and orchestrated a group of Sherpas, porters, cooks and yaks that take care of our every need.
Imagine: breakfast is served, and then as we struggle for oxygen up the trail, the kitchen staff pass us enmasse and we find the kitchen set up at our next stop, lunch awaiting us... Though sometimes we encounter a yak-train, and guess who gets the right of way on the trails? Stay tuned for more...
29 March 2011
 |
| Mani stone. |
A journey doesn't always begin as expected. During orientation in Kathmandu, we went around the room with introductions. I am always impressed by how many people say they have spent 10, 20, 30 years dreaming of a trip to Everest Base Camp. Now here we all were together, thirteen clients and myself, full of adventure, anticipation...in hiking boots and warm gear...ready for the trail! We were ready to fly, sitting in the shoddy domestic airport since 5am waiting for a flight to Lukla, gateway to the Everest region. No flights were leaving though. The Khumbu winter has been unusually late in departing this year, and Lukla--one of the most dangerous (and exciting!) airstrips in the world--has been covered in clouds off and on for the past few weeks. No trail for us that day. Travel anywhere, but especially travel in Nepal, requires a healthy dose of flexibility.
We waited all day in the airport to no avail. The rain and clouds in Lukla did not abate. I juggled itinerary plans, last-minute hotel rooms, and flight rescheduling, and we all returned to the comfort of the famous Yak and Yeti hotel for an extra night in Kathmandu. One of Nepal's most common phrases is "Kay garnay?". Literally "what can you do?", it's so ubiquitous because there's always some reason to say it here! Weather in Lukla is terrible, again? What can you do? You wander out to explore the temples and shops of the city, and hang on to your optimism for tomorrow.
The next day we were lucky. Our staff pulled strings to get us on the very first flight of the morning, so we were at the airport at 5am, luggage piled up on the scale, checking the weather reports for Lukla. Fate was smiling on us, and the weather cleared. We soared over mountains, circled around twice for staggering Himalayan panoramas, and dropped in to the short Lukla airstrip before 8am. We easily made up the lost afternoon and were right back on track for our trek. Lucky, indeed. Nepal is an unpredictable place, which is part of what keeps it interesting!
 |
| Interesting landscape on hike from Lukla. Deana Zabaldo photo |
Today, we arrived in Tengboche and went to visit the area's largest monastery. Ornately painted in colorful pink, orange, yellow, green, and blue, the prayer hall is filled with images of the Buddha, chanting monks, and a thin veil of incense. When the deep tones of afternoon prayers had ceased, we were ushered into the private quarters for the monastery's head lama. In Kathmandu, we bought prayer flags to string at Base Camp and at Scott Fischer's memorial, but the flags must first be blessed. The lama chants and throws handfuls of rice in his small wood-paneled room as we sit on carpeted benches and squeeze against enormous copper bowls.
 |
| Scott Fischer Memorial. Mark Ryman photo |
Dingboche, Saturday April 2nd
From Chris Underhill, Phoenix, AZ:
It is difficult to refrain from saying, "Look!", "Look at that!" as you pass yet another OMG moment, as the scenic views you have only experienced on YouTube or Google, appear before your very eyes. This is only at 14,000 ft. Imagine the delights on approaching base camp--our (and many others') ultimate destination. Mountain Madness has ensured our safety, "guaranteed" (well almost) incredible morning weather for hiking and photography, and orchestrated a group of Sherpas, porters, cooks and yaks that take care of our every need.
 |
| Although this is a teahouse trek, we bring along our own cook staff and serve-up in the comforts of the lodges, ensuring the best possible food and hygiene. Deana Zabaldo photo |
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| Step aside! Deana Zablado photo |
Friday, March 11, 2011
Fundraising with human-powered global circumnavigator Erden Uruc
Human-powered global circumnavigator Erden Eruç departs for Mt. Kilimanjaro to climb with Mountain Madness and raise money for Tanzanian secondary school
This week, Seattle-based adventurer Erden Eruç launches the next phase in his quest to circumnavigate the world under human power, as part of his charitable organization, Around-n-Over (AnO). The mission is to assist poor communities by providing basic educational aid, resources, and facilities.
Eruç will continue his Six Summits Expedition, to climb the highest summits on the six continents he reaches after approaching each by bicycle, on foot, and by rowing across three oceans. His goal in raising awareness about his journey is to instill in young people the values of selflessness, sacrifice, and perseverance in the tradition of historical adventurers and expeditions. Eruç is the first person in history to have crossed three oceans (Indian, Atlantic, and Pacific) via rowing. For more information, visit: http://www.around-n-over.org/projects.htm
Join us for June 5th Mt. Kilimanjaro Fundraiser Climb with Mountain Madness
The next leg of AnO’s Six Summits Expedition takes Eruç to Tanzania, and the continent’s highest peak, Mt. Kilimanjaro, to raise awareness for the Mateves Secondary School in Arusha. For this journey, AnO has collaborated with Mountain Madness. We'll be there to provide our world-class service that began over twenty-five years ago. The goal is for AnO and participants to raise money to use toward the building of new classrooms and educational support. Mountain Madness will also donate a portion of the fees they receive from participants toward the school.
Mateves Mission Statement is: "To tackle illiteracy in the community by ensuring that all enrolled students are provided with fitting and quality education, offered in an environment that is conducive, and delivered by a competent and highly motivated teaching staff."
For more information about the climb or about how to donate to the Mateves school call our office.
Giving back in Nepal
As part of an expanded initiative to give back to the places we travel Mountain Madness is allocating a percentage of gross revenues from Nepal treks this year to an orphanage about three hours outside of the Kathmandu Valley. With six-ten trips on the schedule we hope this contribution will have a positive impact for the Children's Home that Mountain Madness guide Deana Zabaldo has develop alongside a Nepali ngo.
Along with donations Mountain Madness president Mark Gunlogson, who visited the home last fall, is working with his daughter's Girl Scout Troop to set-up a cross cultural exchange that will include writing pen pal letters, fundraising for school supplies, and raising awareness. These small scale initiatives will go a long way towards giving these girls a broader world view - you can't start to young with this sort of thing!
If you would like to donate to this project please visit Deana's site.
This week, Seattle-based adventurer Erden Eruç launches the next phase in his quest to circumnavigate the world under human power, as part of his charitable organization, Around-n-Over (AnO). The mission is to assist poor communities by providing basic educational aid, resources, and facilities.
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| Erden giving a presentation to Seattle's Alki Elementary School |
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| Erden rowing across the high seas. |
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| American Alpine Club President Steve Swenson (l), Erden Uruc (m), and Mark Gunlogson (r)at AAC Annual Meeting |
Eruç will continue his Six Summits Expedition, to climb the highest summits on the six continents he reaches after approaching each by bicycle, on foot, and by rowing across three oceans. His goal in raising awareness about his journey is to instill in young people the values of selflessness, sacrifice, and perseverance in the tradition of historical adventurers and expeditions. Eruç is the first person in history to have crossed three oceans (Indian, Atlantic, and Pacific) via rowing. For more information, visit: http://www.around-n-over.org/projects.htm
Join us for June 5th Mt. Kilimanjaro Fundraiser Climb with Mountain Madness
The next leg of AnO’s Six Summits Expedition takes Eruç to Tanzania, and the continent’s highest peak, Mt. Kilimanjaro, to raise awareness for the Mateves Secondary School in Arusha. For this journey, AnO has collaborated with Mountain Madness. We'll be there to provide our world-class service that began over twenty-five years ago. The goal is for AnO and participants to raise money to use toward the building of new classrooms and educational support. Mountain Madness will also donate a portion of the fees they receive from participants toward the school.
Mateves Mission Statement is: "To tackle illiteracy in the community by ensuring that all enrolled students are provided with fitting and quality education, offered in an environment that is conducive, and delivered by a competent and highly motivated teaching staff."
For more information about the climb or about how to donate to the Mateves school call our office.
Giving back in Nepal
As part of an expanded initiative to give back to the places we travel Mountain Madness is allocating a percentage of gross revenues from Nepal treks this year to an orphanage about three hours outside of the Kathmandu Valley. With six-ten trips on the schedule we hope this contribution will have a positive impact for the Children's Home that Mountain Madness guide Deana Zabaldo has develop alongside a Nepali ngo.
 |
| Deana with kids- dress up time for the girls |
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| Simple pleasures - a game of Chutes and Ladders |
Along with donations Mountain Madness president Mark Gunlogson, who visited the home last fall, is working with his daughter's Girl Scout Troop to set-up a cross cultural exchange that will include writing pen pal letters, fundraising for school supplies, and raising awareness. These small scale initiatives will go a long way towards giving these girls a broader world view - you can't start to young with this sort of thing!
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| Mark reading to the kids |
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| Hand made pillows made by Girl Scouts for their new friends in Nepal |
If you would like to donate to this project please visit Deana's site.
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
Invaluable Lessons in Avalanche Education
After a relatively warm and dry late January and early February, vigorous winter snow storms and cold temps hit the Pacific Northwest these past few weeks bringing great learning opportunities to our back-country travelers and young outdoor enthusiasts! This week's forecast is promising more great skiing and snowboarding conditions and making it hard to stay indoors! Our weekend avalanche courses have been a great success, with our students walking away with invaluable knowledge, greater confidence, and sound decision making tools to aid their travels in avalanche terrain.
Obvious Clues in the field: Avalanches
Our February 18-20 Level 1 Avalanche Course was held in Ashford, Washington; with field sessions taking place above Paradise on Mt Rainier's south side. On day two, MM Guides Ian Nicholson and Dan Otter arrived at the Paradise parking lot (5,540 feet) where they observed strong easterly winds loading west facing terrain and cross loading many other steep slopes. The avalanche danger for the day (according to the Northwest Weather and Avalanche Center) was rated "considerable" above 6,000 feet on easterly aspects - meaning "natural avalanches are possible and human triggered avalanches likely."
The group traveled above Paradise a short distance and demonstrated a snow profile and various instability tests on a small, sheltered slope. They found very "easy" results in bonding tests, and a generally sensitive snowpack structure - weak in strength and with energy to propagate a fracture and produce avalanches. En route to their profile site, they talked to a skier who had just triggered an avalanche next to the Panorama Point Winter Route. One client reflected that even though there were tons of people committing themselves to that slope, the conditions that they were observing told them that travel on that particular terrain feature was not recommended. The guides agreed and began discussing other options. Five minutes later, as the guides were making their snowpack observations, multiple students began yelling "avalanche!" and pointing towards Panorama Point, which was in sight of the team. They reported seeing two people on the slope as an avalanche released. Using the training they had already received, they were able to describe the situation to Ian and Dan (whose backs were to the scene and did not immediately see the incident). Ian and Dan immediately shouldered their packs and ascended the 600-700 feet to the debris pile in the slopes runnout. As they neared the debris, they saw two people ski out to a ridge nearby. They called to them and asked if they had triggered the avalanche. The skiers confirmed they had - they also confirmed they were the only ones on the face when it slid. The crown (what is left once a slab avalanche fractures and fails) was 300 feet across, ranging from 15cm to 100cm deep. The debris ran into a terrain trap at the slopes base and was estimated at over 5 feet deep.
Snow profile. Ian Nicholson photo
The group traveled above Paradise a short distance and demonstrated a snow profile and various instability tests on a small, sheltered slope. They found very "easy" results in bonding tests, and a generally sensitive snowpack structure - weak in strength and with energy to propagate a fracture and produce avalanches. En route to their profile site, they talked to a skier who had just triggered an avalanche next to the Panorama Point Winter Route. One client reflected that even though there were tons of people committing themselves to that slope, the conditions that they were observing told them that travel on that particular terrain feature was not recommended. The guides agreed and began discussing other options. Five minutes later, as the guides were making their snowpack observations, multiple students began yelling "avalanche!" and pointing towards Panorama Point, which was in sight of the team. They reported seeing two people on the slope as an avalanche released. Using the training they had already received, they were able to describe the situation to Ian and Dan (whose backs were to the scene and did not immediately see the incident). Ian and Dan immediately shouldered their packs and ascended the 600-700 feet to the debris pile in the slopes runnout. As they neared the debris, they saw two people ski out to a ridge nearby. They called to them and asked if they had triggered the avalanche. The skiers confirmed they had - they also confirmed they were the only ones on the face when it slid. The crown (what is left once a slab avalanche fractures and fails) was 300 feet across, ranging from 15cm to 100cm deep. The debris ran into a terrain trap at the slopes base and was estimated at over 5 feet deep.
Skier triggered avalanche on Panorama Point.
Ian Nicholson photo
Seeing avalanches in the field is an invaluable experience for any student or instructor. In many respects, avalanches are natures most "obvious clue" to a dangerous snowpack. When avalanches are occuring, it is very likely others will be as well.. Most of the time, however, (well over 90%) it is impossible to have avalanching in the winter snowpack.
Of course, weather and hidden mountain hazards are complex and variable. This said, most experts agree to leave variability to nature. Two things we do have a high degree of control over are the terrain we choose and how we travel in that terrain. We can also choose our partners and teams wisely. Last Saturday was sunny and gorgeous on Rainier - a classic bluebird day - with dozens of people around Panorama Point and in the Paradise area. Lots of people. Lots of clues. And some very real hazard. Among many things, this incident was great example of the effect of "social facilitation" and a huge variety of other "human factors" that increase our risk taking.
Stayed tuned for a re-cap of our fantastically successful Level 2 Avalanche Course taught by Scott Schell and Erica Engle. As expected the conditions became even more condusive to learning....
Of course, weather and hidden mountain hazards are complex and variable. This said, most experts agree to leave variability to nature. Two things we do have a high degree of control over are the terrain we choose and how we travel in that terrain. We can also choose our partners and teams wisely. Last Saturday was sunny and gorgeous on Rainier - a classic bluebird day - with dozens of people around Panorama Point and in the Paradise area. Lots of people. Lots of clues. And some very real hazard. Among many things, this incident was great example of the effect of "social facilitation" and a huge variety of other "human factors" that increase our risk taking.
Stayed tuned for a re-cap of our fantastically successful Level 2 Avalanche Course taught by Scott Schell and Erica Engle. As expected the conditions became even more condusive to learning....
Never too young to start learning...
Mountain Madness' Jeremy Allyn presented an avalanche awareness talk to teens with the Seattle Park's Outdoor Opportunities Program last week. The two hour workshop got the kids involved in an informative and visual lecture that helped prepare them for a weekend snow camping trip in the midst of this winter storm. The students were involved and full of great questions and an excitement for their adventure that followed.
More good snow to come!
We've got some more great snow conditions on the way and several more ski trips before the season ends. Hope you can join us on the slopes! Check out our guided and custom ski trips for opportunities in April and May.
More good snow to come!
We've got some more great snow conditions on the way and several more ski trips before the season ends. Hope you can join us on the slopes! Check out our guided and custom ski trips for opportunities in April and May.
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
2011 Elbrus Season!
On the approach. Anatoliy Savejko photo
Elbrus season is just around the corner! The snowy slopes of the highest peak in Europe awaits climbers and skiers alike. We've have three trip dates available in June and July, with the Elbrus Ski Descent option on our June 19th trip. Skiers can join us for some great schussing down the slopes of this 18,450 foot peak! And climbers can acclimatize on Elbrus on our July 17th trip and then immediately afterwards climb Kilimanjaro on our Elbrus and Kilimanjaro Combo for a Seven Summits whirlwind!
You have probably heard from our many recent blogs about our client favorite guide Ossy Freire who led the Elbrus climbs last year. He will be joining us again for all three climbs of Elbrus! Climbers love the great stories Ossy has to tell about his climbing adventures in Asia and South America. His encouraging words help climbers achieve their goals and keep a great outlook on the difficult climb ahead.
Guide Ossy Freire. Anatoliy Savejko photo
"Ossy was not only a great guide but he was a friend to myself and all of the climbers on the trip. Beacuse of him, I will book another trip with Ossy and Mountain Madness in the future." ~ Fred M. Elbrus '10
In a continuing effort to improve upon our trips, we found a new hotel located directly across from the Kremlin at the Assembleya Nikitskaya! This four star small hotel will provide a comfortable and relaxing experience before and after your summit climb. The suites offer great views of the country's capital and it's central location makes it easy to explore the city on your down time.
Check out the Elbrus Ski video if you haven't already seen it! We hope to see you on the slopes!
