The next morning we return to base camp. Note: Every effort will be made to follow the above itinerary, but it is subject to change at the discretion of our staff, based on weather and local conditions. This includes time spent at Union Glacier Camp and time spent on Mt. Trip cancellation insurance may allow you to get reimbursement if you need to cancel your expedition. Vinson! We travel by ski-equipped aircraft to the 89th degree. – We have been guiding Mt. With nearly 100% success over these past 20 years, we have developed logistics, environmental procedures, climbing routes, camps, and communication protocols that have helped facilitate our high summit and excellent safety record. Each staff member is dedicated to environmentally sound alpine ascents. Mount Vinson, Antarctica. Our Wag Bag® program made a pioneering step in human waste management for the National Park System and Forest Service in the North Cascades. The team finally departed and upon arrival at Patriot Hills, immediately left for Vinson. Photo: Monika Witkowska, Ralaxing at Union Glacier Camp. This is part of the excitement and adventure of Antarctic travel. Erin Carney on A Few Select Images from the Journey; Mary … The climb of Mt. Between our low camp and High Camp on Mt. While items such as extra days on the mountain and satellite phones have become standard practice, our experience in number of seasons and in trip logistics is unsurpassed. Lakpa return to high camp after great summit ! Team 3 – High Camp. In most situations, this may be the only way to receive a refund for unused services. These links will bounce to Amazon.com with reviews. While the size of the continent expands and contracts with seasons, the topography remains stunning with natural sculptures finely crafted by the barrage of wind, snow and cold. Vinson. The Cybercast The Mountain Zone followed lead guides Wally Berg, Peter Athans and their 1999 Alpine Ascents International expedition on an attempt to climb 16,076' Mount Vinson Massif, the highest peak in Antarctica. Though not considered “official,” a NASA satellite measured a temperature of minus 135.3 degrees F in east Antarctica in 2010. The slope angle does not surpass 40 degrees and is best climbed with crampons, ice axe, and the use of an ascender. ). Photo: Monika Witkowska, Climbing towards summit ridge. Today we complete the final steps to our goal – the Geographic South Pole – and the most southerly point on Earth. From the summit, we are blessed with views of neighboring Mt. Alpine Ascents International is an authorized mountain guide service of Denali National Park and Preserve and Mount Rainier National Park. Mount Vinson, Antarctica. A nonrefundable deposit of $5,000.00 is due at the time of registration to reserve a space on the expedition. Fly to Antarctica Fly 4.25 hrs to Antarctica by private transport jet. Our sleds weigh approximately 66lb (30kg) and the snow may be sculpted by the wind into steep ridges called “sastrugi”, adding to the challenge. Read More. It is this ice age environment that constantly attracts intrepid travelers and explorers. The mountains are our home and we are unwilling to sacrifice their preservation for human objectives. Alpine Ascents currently maintains 100% success rate guiding Mt. Photo: Monika Witkowska, High Camp. Photo: Monika Witkowska, Vinson Summit. Vinson Treks Tagged 70 summits, alpine ascents, mountaineering, mt. Director and Founder of Alpine Ascents International Todd has achieved unparalleled success in the mountain guiding industry and is one of the world's leading mountaineers. Evacuation insurance (required by flight service – details in your confirmation package). Photo: Monika Witkowska, Summit Ridge. We pride ourselves on being available for your phone calls and emails, and we have a 24-hour emergency number. Vinson is a section that involves climbing with the assistance of a fixed line. As we approach the top of this remote continent, we peer across thousands of square miles of ice caps and glaciers that fade into a distinctly curved horizon. The entire journey is surreal in texture; from the land’s-end departure point of Punta Arenas to the five-hour flight to a continent with no permanent inhabitants, and to the Union Glacier Camp amidst the giant arctic desert. Alpine Ascents International leads expeditions that have become benchmarks of quality in the climbing community. Alpine Ascents now offers the opportunity for climbers and adventurers to ski from the 89th degree to the 90th degree at the South Pole. While the average temperature during these months is minus 20 degrees F, the intense sun will melt snow on dark objects. Photo: Monika Witkowska. First Ascent of Mount Vinson in 1966 Mount Vinson was the last of the Seven Summits to be climbed due to its remoteness and late discovery. In the morning you are invited to join us for an Antarctic slide show and lecture conducted by ALE. Climbers must be able to carry an average of 45 lbs. We’ll schedule a time to check your Antarctic clothing and ensure that nothing has been inadvertently forgotten. The lowest temperature recorded by a thermomenter on Earth was minus 128.6 degrees F at Vostok Research Station on July 21, 1983. Please contact us with any questions as we look to provide excellent customer service answering your climb and gear questions. Lana Africano on Alpine Ascents Cybercast: Summit! Alpine Ascents knocked it outta the park! Posted in Mt. All Alpine Ascents Vinson climbers have now returned to Punta Arenas. We will make several marches and set a field camp on the Union Glacier. Our office is at your disposal to discuss training, gear, prerequisites, and logistics. Tyree, Shinn, and Epperly, and a multitude of unexplored peaks. Vinson and a winter ascent of Aconcagua. We ski a short distance, or camp at our drop-off point to acclimatize to the extreme cold and altitude. From Vinson Base Camp to Low Camp we follow the gradual rise of the Branscomb Glacier. The American Alpine Club and the National Geographic Society sponsored an American team which summited Mt. There is time for questions and meeting your fellow travelers. The fixed lines are regularly maintained and are constructed of high-quality climbing ropes and anchors. 30 talking about this. The breakfasts usually consist of eggs, pancakes, oatmeal, and some cereals, along with a hot drink. Alaska Rentals: Due to the unique nature of Alpine Ascents' Alaska program, some items requested may be picked up in Talkeetna at your gear check rather than shipped directly to you. Full refunds, less deposit, will be provided 120 days prior to expedition start date. The team is excited and waiting to fly to Vinson base camp. It was a memorable and moving experience on multiple fronts; one for a lifetime. Vinson!! Er liegt etwa 1.000 Kilometer vom Südpol entfernt und 1.500 Kilometer vom nördlichen Rand der Antarktis in Richtung Südamerika. The pilot will be in constant contact with the base for weather updates. This trip takes approximately 10 days. Vinson climbing practices along with our flight service partners. Eventually, I just had to go. 02/11/2020 Blog Archives - Alpine Ascents … Vinson, ein Gipfel der Ellsworth Mountains, ist der höchste Berg der Antarktis und einer der „Seven Summits“, einer der höchsten Gipfel aller sieben Kontinente. All schedules account for round trip travel from home country. My son and I enjoyed every minute. Vinson on December 17, 1966, two weeks after its arrival. In 1961, the Vinson Massif was named by the Advisory Committee on Antarctic Names (US-ACAN), after Carl G. Vinson, United States congressm… That is why it is now time to give yourself the gift of climbing in the great outdoors! Vinson climb. Was I really ready to go? Vinson Massif was discovered in January 1958 by U.S. Navy aircraft. This expedition is well-documented in the June 1967 National Geographic Magazine. Everyone is very happy and excited to be back in civilization and get connected to their families, friend and loved ones. About Climbing the Seven Summits Throughout the years Alpine Ascents has assisted climbers in reaching the highest point on each continent. Alpine Ascents is deeply committed to maintaining ecosystems at home and around the world, especially in the pristine environment of Antarctica where biosecurity is paramount. On Aconcagua and Vinson, we pioneered a waste removal system on our climbs, utilizing the WAG Bag® system. Vernon also made the first solo ascent of Mt. This expertise is based upon years of accumulated experience-not just from individual mountain guides, but through experience on particular mountains where details are fine-tuned over time. Over the years, with the assistance of our Sherpa teams, we have stepped up efforts to clean Mt. Checking off the carabiners and gloves was the easy part. We will review expedition logistics with our guide, go for a scenic ski and prepare for our mini-expedition. Mount Vinson, Antarctica. Please arrive early in the day if possible, as we try to complete gear check on this day. On every one of our courses and climbs we teach and follow the environmentally appropriate Leave No Trace principles and practices. Mt Vinson is the highest point and therefore one of the 7 summits ... , it was first climbed in December 1966 by a combined group from the American Alpine Club and the National Science Foundation. Team Lady and the Tramps Hello there friends, family and loved ones this is Team Lady and the Tramps we have successfully boarded the Ilyushin and flew all the way from the continent of Antarctica and flew all the way from Punta Arenas, Chile. Trip length may vary by departure. Vaughn. As of 2010, a new runway and camp has been established at the Union Glacier (replacing the Patriot Hills camp), and has led to a lower rate of flight delays. Our 2018/19 season had  all teams reaching the summit and followed our 100% success of the 2017/18 season. Vinson was first reached, becoming the last of the seven summits to be conquered. I appreciate their professionalism and easy going attitudes. Vinson Area, Various Ascents. Dear Alpine Ascents: Insulating Ice Axe Handles. Vinson, Antarctica Vinson Expedition - 16,067 ft (4897 m) - December 2009 About. Photo: Monika Witkowska, Mount Vinson, Antarctica. Adventure Consultants pioneered guided ascents of Mount Vinson in 1990 and has been operating successful trips to the mountain ever since. Yesterday, Alpine Ascents Team 2 aka V4 flew to Union Glacier. The southeastern part of the massif ends at Hammer Col, which joins it to the Craddock Massif, of which the highest point is Mount Rutford (4,477 metres (14,688 ft)). I was ready to go! Rainier Climber. We help facilitate this effort by passing on Leave No Trace training and literature to every Alpine Ascents climber. High quality guiding and logistics across the board. Mount Vinson, Antarctica. Team 5 – Heading Home. This greatly reduces the pack weight (now 40 lbs.) Mount Vinson is 4,897m/16,067ft high but is not a technically difficult climb although it is an extremely cold ascent with temperatures dropping to minus 40°C near the summit. Mount Vinson, Antarctica. Please note that your policy must run for two weeks after the end of your trip. Photo: Monika Witkowska, Moving to Base Camp from our Twin Otter landing strip. Should we believe that the unexplored exists, then we must view the isolation of Antarctica as an explorer’s final frontier. Mount Vinson, Antarctica. These individuals are dedicated to sharing their excellence with others. Participants whose balances are not received by the 120-day deadline as stated above, risk forfeiture of their place on the expedition. Baker Charity Climb August 16-18, 2021. Sincerely, Seeking Toasty Mitts Hi Toast Mitts, Thanks for reaching out and stoked you’re headed up to the […]. Posted in Dispatches | Tagged Post by Voice. There have been occasions when deteriorating conditions after departure from Union Glacier have forced us to turn around and await better flying conditions. The American Alpine Club and the National Geographic Society sponsored an American team which summited Mt. In his fifteen years of guiding, he has led 8 expeditions to Mt. Posted on February 4, 2011 by alpineascents. Team 3 – Summits. As on all expeditions, success is a team effort. Please purchase trip cancellation insurance (see bottom of page) within 21 days of booking your trip. Mt. Alpine Ascents reserves the right to withhold all or part of your security deposit for the replacement or repair of damaged items. We will also be weighing gear as all gear that will fly to the glacier will be checked in at this time. [Click here to see the archived Cybercast of the Mount Vinson … Vinson climbing practices along with our flight service partners. 2,150 ft. (650 m) of elevation gain, 5.5 miles (9 km) of distance, 4–6 hours travel. The completion of this incredible journey will be the return flight to Union Glacier over the polar plateau. From that point, we ski the final length, 60 nautical miles, across windswept terrain and sastrugi in an effort to reach the geographic South Pole. We take breaks regularly during this portion of the climb, as we do for the entire expedition. It was like an ongoing lesson in mountaineering, the history of Antarctica, and social responsibility. – We likely have the most experienced guide staff (Vern Tejas, Ben Jones and Jangbu Sherpa) among Vinson guide services. Soon after their return, US policy encouraging travel to Antarctica was changed to discourage travel to this region. [CLICK FOR THE INDEX OF ARCHIVED DISPATCHES]The Mountain What separates Vinson from all other peaks is the sheer isolation of the mountain and the extraordinary views from its summit. We strive on each expedition to be unique, adding a level of personalization and care that continually can set us apart from other outfitters. 2008-2009 Mount Vinson Cybercast. Ivy Colon on Alpine Ascents Cybercast: Summit! Four members of the joint expedition led by Nicholas B. Clinch made the first ascent of the mountain on 17 December 1966. This is a highly recommended shortlist and we would be happy to pass on a longer reading list for those interested. Checking off the carabiners and gloves was the easy part. Posted on January 16, 2015 by alpineascents. We have journeyed overland to the Pole, joining an elite group who have challenged the ‘real Antarctica’ of polar explorers. —2019 Climber, The Vinson expedition was top notch on all dimensions and exceeded my high expectations. The Ellsworth Mountains are around 300km long and run roughly NNW-SSE. Our lead guide, Vernon Tejas, has likely led more climbs on Vinson than any other guide and Ben Jones (also leading 2 trips) is one of the premier high altitude guides in the world leading trips from Vinson to Everest. Mount Vinson, Antarctica. The prerequisite for any adventurer considering the South Pole ski trip is good physical condition and moderate randonee (cross-country) skiing skills. We operate what we believe is the finest mountaineering school in the country. As always, we encourage you to ask questions of Alpine Ascents and other guide services before embarking on an expedition of this magnitude. Mount Vinson, Antarctica. Vinson! Schedule No two Antarctic experiences are exactly the same. Vinson Base Camp to Low Camp. 2020 has for everyone been an extraordinary year. Vinson ignites man’s primal instincts for wilderness, the elements, and conquest. We can discuss and help plan training regimens (catered to where you live) and work closely with you on locating the right gear and discussing clothing options. Alpine Ascents currently maintains 100% success rate guiding Mt. Mountaineering skills required include: self-arrest, glacier travel, and crevasse rescue. We believe that given the proper information most people will do all they can to help protect and maintain the environment. Everest. Eventually, I just had to go. Lakpa and rest of team summit – perfect weather ! The lecture includes information on your flight South, the current weather situation and what to expect on your arrival in Antarctica. Mount Vinson, Antarctica. Congrats to all for a successful season on Mt. The gentle climb is ideal for pulling sleds allowing us to lighten the loads in our packs. The South Pole has been designated as an Antarctic Specially Managed Area (ASMA #5) to conserve the environmental, scientific and historical values of the area. Ben Jones and Jangbu Sherpa led 4 teams in 2019/2020 with just under 100% success and we look to have them back for next season along with Vern Tejas. Ascents of New Zealand's famous peaks are coveted as highlights in any climber's career. As the aircraft disappears from view, we are struck by the stark beauty and emptiness of this place. Please anticipate delays and do not plan anything for at least a week after your scheduled return. We prepare the necessary documents in a clean and precise manner. All Alpine Ascents Vinson climbers have now returned to Punta Arenas. And we continue our on-going maintenance and minimal impact plans wherever we guide. All equipment, whether shipped to you or picked up in Alaska, may be de-issued at the Alpine Ascents Alaska facility at the end of your trip. With each expedition, trek, and course, we not only attempt to leave the environment as we found it, but strive to assist the local population in protecting the land and people indigenous to that region. This gives us an opportunity to practice pacing and navigation, and to fine tune our clothing and camping systems before heading into the deep field. Vinson, Antarctica Vinson Expedition - 16,067 ft (4897 m) - December 2009 About. Transfer to ski aircraft and continue to Vinson Base Camp at 6,900 ft (2100m) on the Branscomb Glacier. ... that the summit of Mt. Mt. Many of our guides have been with Alpine Ascents for over five years, with a handful of veterans working with us for most of their careers. You’ll be notified of our departure time as soon as we have a clear weather forecast, and given around two hours before we pick you up at the hotel. Mount Vinson, Antarctica. Day 5: Acclimatization and Preparations Today is an easy day to acclimatize to Antarctic conditions and become familiar with expedition equipment. We get our first taste of sled hauling with an overnight mini-expedition. During the summer season (November through January), there are 24 hours of sunlight. While Antarctica has no native population, Emilio Palma (Argentinean) was the first to be born on the continent in January 1978. This was my 3rd trip with AAI (Baker; Ecuador & Rainier) and each time I'm impressed with the quality/safety of your company. Posted on February 4, 2011 by alpineascents It was the last of the Seven Summits to be conquered. Antarctica is a magical place, and Alpine Ascents delivered that each day we were there. Vinson was reached (1966). With 5.5 million square miles of solid ice, the mass of this continent — twice the size of Australia — creates a remote wilderness unrivaled on the planet. Photo: Andy Tyson, Plenty of daylight. He was the lead guide responsible for Col. Norman Vaughn’s successful summit of Mt. We have an excellent travel agent who can get you out of Punta Arenas as quickly as possible with 24-hour call service. Alpine Ascents International leads expeditions that have become benchmarks of quality in the climbing community. We operate what we believe is the finest mountaineering school in the country. Alpine Ascents 2008-2009 Mount Vinson Cybercast. Thanks in advance and see you in Talkeetna! Day 4: Depart Punta Arenas, Chile. Allow yourself to enjoy this unique experience without the stress of pending commitments. (Please see Alpine Ascents’ refund policy for your climb.). Vern and Ben were fantastic and Vinson was one of the more memorable climbs I’ve been on. This journey can be made independently or in conjunction with our Mt. Alpine Ascents International highly recommends trip cancellation insurance for all expeditions. —2019 Climber. However, not all rental items are available for pickup in Talkeetna. No refunds will be provided 119 days prior to expedition start date. Photo: Monika Witkowska. Vinson V5 team back in civilization!!! Vinson expedition with guides Vern Tejas & Garrett Madison is in Punta Arenas. Stay tuned for further updates. Once back at Union Glacier Camp we will enjoy a celebration dinner and toast our wonderful achievement. Arusha crew […], Hey Alpine, I’m headed up to Denali this May (!!!!) Antarctica’s highest mountain, Mount Vinson, lies within the Ellsworth Mountains, 700 nautical miles from the South Pole. Climbing for Learning - Mt. linktr.ee/alpineascents We’ll discuss Leave No Trace Principles and how best to preserve the pristine Antarctic Wilderness. Mount Vinson, Antarctica. All flights to and from the mountain from Punta Arenas, All flights to and from the South Pole (for the South Pole ski tour). Thanks again to AAI for another unbelievable trip! The Invinsonables at 12,500′ Enjoys Mild, Sunny, and Cold Weather, Will Attempt Summit Tomorrow! Please remember you are part of a climbing team and, as with any team, your ability to contribute not only helps your chances for success, but also mitigates some of the climbing risks and increases the likelihood of a highly enjoyable experience for all. At Alpine Ascents, environmental stewardship remains one of our core values and we take Leave No Trace ethics and practices very seriously. Mount Vinson (4892m / 16,045ft) is the highest peak in Antarctica, situated in the Sentinel Range of the Ellsworth Mountains. ), Charges incurred as a result of delays beyond Alpine Ascents International’s control. It was nearly 200 years after James Cook circumnavigated Antarctica that the summit of Mt. Vinson! Posted in Dispatches. As a guide for Alpine Ascents International, Vernon has guided clients up Elbrus, Kilimanjaro, and Iran’s Mt. Everest, more than any other climber. This was my 3rd trip with AAI (Baker; Ecuador & Rainier) and each time I'm impressed with the quality/safety of your company. Vinson two weeks after their arrival, on December 17, 1966. Erin Carney on A Few Select Images from the Journey; Mary … Soy burgers, scrambled eggs, ramen, pizza, hashbrowns! Job Well Done!!! The other team that was ahead of us flew out today so we are hoping that the weather will … Climbing for Learning - Mt. Thanks in advance and see you in Talkeetna! Obviously unique in location, Vinson presents more than an off-the-beaten-track climbing trip. Posted in Dispatches | Tagged Post by Voice | Comments Off on The Invinsonables Summit Mt. Members from our Tanzanian partner company Big Expeditions handled all aspects of whole purchase and transport of over 12,000 lbs of rice, corn and sugar. This expertise is based upon years of accumulated experience-not just from individual mountain guides, but through experience on particular mountains where details are fine-tuned over time. Continue on to join Mount Vinson team or fly back to Punta Arenas. Alpine Ascents Foundation Mt. But because of the peak's location in Antarctica's Ellsworth Mountains, the coldest and most remote range in the world, … The elevation gain is roughly 1,800 ft. and it takes several hours to ascend this section. Our history on Vinson is long and rich, beginning with our commercial expeditions in 1992 (indeed, there were some commercial flights back then), Alpine Ascents has led and cultivated Mt. If the weather permits, we’ll transfer our equipment from the Ilyushin 76 aircraft to the Twin Otter and fly an hour to Vinson Base Camp. With less than two inches of precipitation per year, Antarctica is best characterized as a desert. Guides who have summited the tallest; nastiest peaks around the world. European Ascents Many of the most revered climbers on Earth cut their teeth in mountains above the charming French town of Chamonix, home of our European operations base. Vinson for nearly 30 years with about a 97% success rate. Photo: Monika Witkowska, Climbing towards summit ridge. We fly by ski aircraft to 89°S, 60 nautical miles from the South Pole. Leave No Trace principles are fundamental to our program, and we encourage all who climb and trek with us to understand proper wilderness practices. It overlooks the Ronne Ice Shelf near the base of the Antarctic Peninsula. vinson, seven summits, vern tejas Leave a comment The adventure begins! Louise WIlliams on Alpine Ascents Cybercast: Summit! Posted in Dispatches | Tagged Post by Voice. or more. Each $5,000 deposit is nonrefundable (per the flight service policy). Mount Vinson, Antarctica. [Click here to see the archived Cybercast of the Mount Vinson Expedition.] While it may be inclusion in the Seven Summits that spurs the initial attraction, most climbers find Vinson to be one of their most memorable climbing experiences and a chance to capture once-in-a-lifetime images. Alpine Ascents International is an authorized mountain guide service of Denali National Park and Preserve and Mount Rainier National Park. This greatly reduces the pack weight that climbers need to carry (now 45 lbs. America's Premier Mountain Guide Service and Climbing School www.AlpineAscents.com If you are interested in extending your trip to include the South Pole Ski Tour or flight to visit the South Pole, email our director of programs, Gordon Janow, at [email protected]. Examples are rice, pasta, mixed vegetables, chicken, fish, or beef. Posted on December 30, 2015 by alpineascents. Today is Tuesday and we are heading back to Punta Arenas. From the airport in Punta Arenas, you’ll be escorted to your hotel. On January 3, Viki Groselj, Stane Klemenc, Rafko Vodisek (Slovenia) and Stipe Bozic, Josko Bojic (Croatia) arrived in the Patriot Hills Base Camp. Once we land at Vinson Base Camp, we’ll review the climbing route and rearrange the loads for the journey. America's Premier Mountain Guide Service and Climbing School www.AlpineAscents.com The Invinsonables Summit Mt. You may want to check out our Training regimen, as this will also serve as excellent preparation for Vinson. Our guides are an integral part of Alpine Ascents because they understand and share our climbing principles. Today they have completed their pre flight briefing, and likely will fly … Continue reading → Posted in Dispatches. Our guides will personally contact you before your climb. We operate what we believe is the finest mountaineering school in the country. Our history on Vinson is long and rich, beginning with our commercial expeditions in 1992 (indeed, there were some commercial flights back then), Alpine Ascents has led and cultivated Mt. Alpine Ascents’ five-day climb of Mount Olympus is an excellent choice for climbers who appreciate the journey as well as the destination. Exceptional guides— the knowledge and skill level was amazing to watch. The quality of our Guide Staff is the primary difference between us and our competitors. The ascent of Mt. Posted on December 18, 2017 December 20, 2017 by Sunni Hearin Lakpa Rita Sherpa becomes the first Sherpa to summit Mount Vinson, and the Seven Summits. The climate on Vinson is generally controlled by the polar ice cap’s high-pressure system, creating predominantly stable conditions. 22 Jan. Reach the geographic South Pole and realize that you are now standing at the most southerly point on Earth where, beneath your feet, 360 lines of longitude collide and the ice is almost 3,000 m (10,000 ft.) thick. Please contact our office for the most up-to-date availability for each departure. Congrats to all for a successful season on Mt. Posted in Dispatches | Comments Off on All Alpine Ascents Vinson climbers have now returned to Punta Arenas. This expertise is based upon years of accumulated experience-not just from individual mountain guides, but through experience on particular mountains where details are fine-tuned over time.