Vinson


  
16,067 ft.


<Last  Next> 

Antarctica

We drag sleds filled with food and gear, from Base Camp to Low Camp.  Beyond Low Camp, it is too steep to pull sleds, so we must haul everything on our backs.  Sometimes, we make two trips to each destination, to lessen the weight we must carry.
 

Mt. Vinson journal entry:
Nov. 22, 2008
Low temp. -37F

“After arriving at Patriot Hills, we board another plane for the short flight to Base Camp.  Spent today dragging sleds loaded with 60 pounds of food and gear, up to camp.  It is grueling and slow going, as we are hooked to the sleds and each other.  The sun was bright and I was dressed in multiple layers.  I wore a tank top, turtleneck, expedition weight long-john body suit, fleece sweater, wind shirt, light jacket, plus a “puff” down-like jacket as backup.  Add to that three bottom layers, boots with battery operated heaters, hat, neck-gaiter, glove liners plus double layered gloves, and I was ready to go.  Lastly, I applied a thick layer of sunscreen, to combat the 24 hour sunlight.  At night, I sleep in most of these clothing layers, including a down jacket.  My custom made down sleeping bag, which was a wonderful gift from Dad, is rated to –40.  Right now it is –37, so it will be tested tonight.”