About Climbing the Seven Summits Throughout the years Alpine Ascents has assisted climbers in reaching the highest point on each continent. Ascents of New Zealand's famous peaks are coveted as highlights in any climber's career. The mountains are our home and we are unwilling to sacrifice their preservation for human objectives. Four members of the joint expedition led by Nicholas B. Clinch made the first ascent of the mountain on 17 December 1966. Mount Vinson, Antarctica. Lana Africano on Alpine Ascents Cybercast: Summit! Those wishing to embark on this unique journey should possess previously established climbing skills and be prepared for harsh conditions of extreme cold and, at times, ferocious winds. Vinson climbing practices along with our flight service partners. Trip cancellation insurance may allow you to get reimbursement if you need to cancel your expedition. These individuals are dedicated to sharing their excellence with others. Mt.Everest The higest Summit Enter your search terms Submit search form: Wednesday, December 19, 2007. Today they have completed their pre flight briefing, and likely will fly … Continue reading → Posted in Dispatches. This was my 3rd trip with AAI (Baker; Ecuador & Rainier) and each time I'm impressed with the quality/safety of your company. Vinson, also known as Vinson Massif, is not a technical one, and its altitude challenge, at 16,067 ft (4,892 m), is moderate. The massif is located about 1,200 kilometres (750 mi) from the South Pole. Interesting… What’s the rationale and how do I do it? Our guides are an integral part of Alpine Ascents because they understand and share our climbing principles. [Click here to see the archived Cybercast of the Mount Vinson Expedition.] We ski a short distance, or camp at our drop-off point to acclimatize to the extreme cold and altitude. Photo: Monika Witkowska, Summit Ridge. 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. This expedition was by far the best experience I’ve had while on a climb. Over the years, with the assistance of our Sherpa teams, we have stepped up efforts to clean Mt. Alpine Ascents International is an authorized mountain guide service of Denali National Park and Preserve and Mount Rainier National Park. Vinson for nearly 30 years with about a 97% success rate. 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. Vinson climbing practices along with our flight service partners. 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. It was nearly 200 years after James Cook circumnavigated Antarctica that the summit of Mt. We operate what we believe is the finest mountaineering school in the country. Vinson Base Camp to Low Camp. and I heard that climbers insulate their ice axes? 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’ll schedule a time to check your Antarctic clothing and ensure that nothing has been inadvertently forgotten. Posted on February 4, 2011 by alpineascents. 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. Photo: Monika Witkowska, Mount Vinson, Antarctica. Congrats to all for a successful season on Mt. – Assistance with delays and 24 hour contact with climbers. Caryn Reedy on Alpine Ascents Cybercast: Summit! On January 3, Viki Groselj, Stane Klemenc, Rafko Vodisek (Slovenia) and Stipe Bozic, Josko Bojic (Croatia) arrived in the Patriot Hills Base Camp. Vaughn. Sincerely, Seeking Toasty Mitts Hi Toast Mitts, Thanks for reaching out and stoked you’re headed up to the […]. 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. It is similar to other alpine routes, with its moderate slopes and glaciated terrain. Mount Vinson (4892m / 16,045ft) is the highest peak in Antarctica, situated in the Sentinel Range of the Ellsworth Mountains. Alpine Ascents’ five-day climb of Mount Olympus is an excellent choice for climbers who appreciate the journey as well as the destination. Despite being just over 3,000m in height, our backyard summits are similar in ruggedness and valley to summit altitude gains to the higher peaks of the Himalaya. Backpacking & Wilderness Navigation Course, Peru: Salkantay Mountain Trek to Machu Picchu, Kilimanjaro COVID-19 Hunger Relief Update. Vinson Treks Tagged 70 summits, alpine ascents, mountaineering, mt. Vinson is part of the Ellsworth Mountains, which rise majestically from the Ronne Ice Shelf. All flights to and from the mountain from Punta Arenas, All flights to and from the South Pole (for the South Pole ski tour). Mount Vinson, Antarctica. Please contact us with any questions as we look to provide excellent customer service answering your climb and gear questions. The sheer magnitude of the continent and the exquisite nature of the ascent is an extreme and remarkable experience. Baker Charity Climb August 16-18, 2021. The climb of Mt. Please anticipate delays and do not plan anything for at least a week after your scheduled return. Eventually, I just had to go. Alpine Ascents is committed to developing safe, self-reliant, and environmentally conscious mountaineers. In most situations, this may be the only way to receive a refund for unused services. Posted on January 16, 2015 by alpineascents. After that, you are free to explore the city. Photo: Monika Witkowska, Climbing towards summit ridge. On Aconcagua and Vinson, we pioneered a waste removal system on our climbs, utilizing the WAG Bag® system. Photo: Monika Witkowska, High Camp. 02/11/2020 Blog Archives - Alpine Ascents … I found assembling 8 days worth of food to be […], by Eric Murphy  Our ongoing and very successful ($37,000 +) Kilimanjaro Covid-19 Hunger Relief Fundraiser has just completed the 2nd food distributions for all 310 crew and staff. 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. Vinson! Photo: Monika Witkowska. Everyone is very happy and excited to be back in civilization and get connected to their families, friend and loved ones. With less than two inches of precipitation per year, Antarctica is best characterized as a desert. Our Wag Bag® program made a pioneering step in human waste management for the National Park System and Forest Service in the North Cascades. Alpine Ascents International highly recommends trip cancellation insurance for all expeditions. These links will bounce to Amazon.com with reviews. or more. Alpine Ascents Foundation Mt. Today we complete the final steps to our goal – the Geographic South Pole – and the most southerly point on Earth. 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. Vinson. All refund requests must be made in writing and be received in our office within the 120-day period, as stated above. From Vinson Base Camp to Low Camp we follow the gradual rise of the Branscomb Glacier. Transfer to ski aircraft and continue to Vinson Base Camp at 6,900 ft (2100m) on the Branscomb Glacier. Erin Carney on A Few Select Images from the Journey; Mary … Photo: Monika Witkowska, Climbing towards summit ridge. As a guide for Alpine Ascents International, Vernon has guided clients up Elbrus, Kilimanjaro, and Iran’s Mt. This is more than just having the right gear, but a sense of one’s working body, an ability to detect cold and other issues, and a willingness to communicate your level of health with your guide. In the morning you are invited to join us for an Antarctic slide show and lecture conducted by ALE. But, as in any polar climate, high winds and snowfall are possible. Great Trip. 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. Once we land at Vinson Base Camp, we’ll review the climbing route and rearrange the loads for the journey. Trip length may vary by departure. All land prices are per person, based on double occupancy. It is this ice age environment that constantly attracts intrepid travelers and explorers. All schedules account for round trip travel from home country. Mount Vinson, Antarctica. Posted on December 27, 2010 by alpineascents. Each $5,000 deposit is nonrefundable (per the flight service policy). Schedule No two Antarctic experiences are exactly the same. Team 3 – Summits. The American Alpine Club and the National Geographic Society sponsored an American team which summited Mt. 45 talking about this. It was like an ongoing lesson in mountaineering, the history of Antarctica, and social responsibility. Sincerely, Seeking Toasty Mitts Hi Toast Mitts, Thanks for reaching out and stoked you’re headed up to the […]. Checking off the carabiners and gloves was the easy part. Our sleds weigh approximately 66lb (30kg) and the snow may be sculpted by the wind into steep ridges called “sastrugi”, adding to the challenge. Our 2018/19 season had  all teams reaching the summit and followed our 100% success of the 2017/18 season. climbers need to carry. Exceptional guides— the knowledge and skill level was amazing to watch. All Alpine Ascents Vinson climbers have now returned to Punta Arenas. Please purchase trip cancellation insurance (see bottom of page) within 21 days of booking your trip. The team is excited and waiting to fly to Vinson base camp. SRS available for an additional charge. Please note that your policy must run for two weeks after the end of your trip. 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. The itinerary above highlights typical activities and experiences. —2019 Climber, Vinson Climb: $43,000.00 Ski The Last Degree Only: $64,000.00 Ski The Last Degree and Mount Vinson: $84,000.00, December 4 – 22, 2021 Lead Guide: Ben Jones December 15, 2021 – January 2, 2022 Lead Guide: Ben Jones December 26, 2021 – January 12, 2022 Lead Guide: Vern Tejas January 6 – 24, 2022 Lead Guide: Vern Tejas, South Pole: Ski The Last Degree Options to fly to South Pole and other Last Degree dates may be available, December 4 – 23, 2021 (this trip joins the Dec 15 Vinson for those interested in back to back programs). Lakpa and rest of team summit – perfect weather ! 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. As on all expeditions, success is a team effort. While Antarctica has no native population, Emilio Palma (Argentinean) was the first to be born on the continent in January 1978. We were pampered! Alpine Ascents International is an authorized mountain guide service of Denali National Park and Preserve and Mount Rainier National Park. Vinson!! We are happy to walk you through our application forms, bios, necessary insurance, and flight service paperwork. Day 5: Acclimatization and Preparations Today is an easy day to acclimatize to Antarctic conditions and become familiar with expedition equipment. It overlooks the Ronne Ice Shelf near the base of the Antarctic Peninsula. Soon after their return, US policy encouraging travel to Antarctica was changed to discourage travel to this region. My son and I enjoyed every minute. After completing customs and immigration formalities at the airport, we’ll proceed to the aircraft for a photo session before climbing on board. Mountaineering skills required include: self-arrest, glacier travel, and crevasse rescue. The prerequisite for any adventurer considering the South Pole ski trip is good physical condition and moderate randonee (cross-country) skiing skills. Mount Vinson, Antarctica. Vinson! Climbers must be able to carry an average of 45 lbs. 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]. We’ll fly to Union Glacier Camp. Vinson Climb: $43,000.00 Ski The Last Degree Only: $64,000.00 Ski The Last Degree and Mount Vinson: $84,000.00, December 4 – 22, 2021 Lead Guide: Ben Jones December 15, 2021 – January 2, 2022 Lead Guide: Ben Jones December 26, 2021 – January 12, 2022 Lead Guide: Vern Tejas January 6 – 24, 2022 Lead Guide: Vern Tejas, South Pole: Ski The Last Degree Options to fly to South Pole and other Last Degree dates may be available, December 4 – 23, 2021 (this trip joins the Dec 15 Vinson for those interested in back to back programs). Vinson on December 17, 1966, two weeks after its arrival. Checking off the carabiners and gloves was the easy part. Participants whose balances are not received by the 120-day deadline as stated above, risk forfeiture of their place on the expedition. There have been occasions when deteriorating conditions after departure from Union Glacier have forced us to turn around and await better flying conditions. To purchase trip cancellation insurance for your trip: Our guides were both great and easy to work with. Vinson ignites man’s primal instincts for wilderness, the elements, and conquest. Mount Vinson, Antarctica. by Ciara Sampaio I went over the Denali Prep Gear List a million times and checked everything off. Posted in Mt. Alpine Ascents’ ability to lead multiple trips per season puts us in position to adjust to changing conditions and have the resources available that a one-guide, single expedition does not have. America's Premier Mountain Guide Service and Climbing School www.AlpineAscents.com Due to the nature and heavy costs of government and operator permits, Alpine Ascents International must adhere to a stringent refund policy. Job Well Done!!! 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. Soy burgers, scrambled eggs, ramen, pizza, hashbrowns! Backpacking & Wilderness Navigation Course, Peru: Salkantay Mountain Trek to Machu Picchu, Why Climb Mount Vinson with Alpine Ascents, The Endurance: Shackleton's Legendary Antarctic Expedition, To Everest Via Antarctica : Climbing Solo on the Highest Peak on Each of the World's Seven Continents, Let Heroes Speak: Antarctic Explorers, 1772-1922, The Last Place on Earth: Scott and Amundsen's Race to the South Pole, Revised and Updated, Kilimanjaro COVID-19 Hunger Relief Update. —2019 Climber, The Vinson expedition was top notch on all dimensions and exceeded my high expectations. Vinson Massif is a large mountain massif in Antarctica that is 21 km (13 mi) long and 13 km (8 mi) wide and lies within the Sentinel Range of the Ellsworth Mountains. 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. The next Alpine Ascents Mt. Mount Vinson, Antarctica. All 7 climbers reached the summit which is a testament to your guides." Photo: Monika Witkowska, Neighboring Mount Shinn from High Camp. Note: Alpine Ascents International highly recommends trip cancellation insurance for all expeditions. Louise WIlliams on Alpine Ascents Cybercast: Summit! Arusha crew […], Hey Alpine, I’m headed up to Denali this May (!!!!) The group will travel together and participants will be expected to help set up camp and prepare meals at the end of the day. This greatly reduces the pack weight (now 40 lbs.) Trip evacuation insurance is mandatory for the Mount Vinson climb (as required by the flight service) and trip cancellation insurance (which also includes evacuation insurance) is highly recommended. Vinson during the climb. ), Charges incurred as a result of delays beyond Alpine Ascents International’s control. Day 3: Slide Show, gear weighing, city exploration. ... Alpine Ascents International - AA (USA) usually have the most climbers on the mountain during the season and feature some very experienced guides 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. Mount Vinson, Antarctica. Vinson! We get our first taste of sled hauling with an overnight mini-expedition. We have all learned how to be more patient, caring and most of all learned the true meaning of staying healthy and safe. 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)). Yes, today we are back in civilization in Punta Arenas. – We likely have the most experienced guide staff (Vern Tejas, Ben Jones and Jangbu Sherpa) among Vinson guide services. Please allow at least an additional two weeks after the expedition end date as weather and flight delays are not uncommon. Vinson is moderate by technical standards. The cool thing about this trip was the vast knowledge we had guiding the trip. Thanks in advance and see you in Talkeetna! We help facilitate this effort by passing on Leave No Trace training and literature to every Alpine Ascents climber. Posted in Dispatches. 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. Alpine Ascents 2008-2009 Mount Vinson Cybercast. We have journeyed overland to the Pole, joining an elite group who have challenged the ‘real Antarctica’ of polar explorers. The breakfasts usually consist of eggs, pancakes, oatmeal, and some cereals, along with a hot drink. 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. The other team that was ahead of us flew out today so we are hoping that the weather will … Alpine Ascents is one of the few outfitters allowed to cache at Vinson Base Camp, Low Camp, and High Camp, and thus we have a full set of cookware, stoves, tents, and climbing equipment. We fly by ski aircraft to 89°S, 60 nautical miles from the South Pole. Der Mt. Vinson is a section that involves climbing with the assistance of a fixed line. Mount Vinson, Antarctica. Vinson climbing practices along with our flight service partners. We strive to provide a balanced diet while on the continent of Antarctica. Rainier Climber. —2019 Climber. 30 talking about this. Lakpa Rita Sherpa becomes the first Sherpa to summit Mount Vinson, and the Seven Summits. Vinson was first reached, becoming the last of the seven summits to be conquered. Mt. Continue on to join Mount Vinson team or fly back to Punta Arenas. 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. 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. 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. 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. Each staff member is dedicated to environmentally sound alpine ascents. 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. Payment for Alaska rentals will be charged to the on-file credit card after your gear check, including a $50 security deposit per item. Once back at Union Glacier Camp we will enjoy a celebration dinner and toast our wonderful achievement. This journey can be made independently or in conjunction with our Mt. America's Premier Mountain Guide Service and Climbing School www.AlpineAscents.com We prepare the necessary documents in a clean and precise manner. Day 4: Depart Punta Arenas, Chile. The climate on Vinson is generally controlled by the polar ice cap’s high-pressure system, creating predominantly stable conditions. Vinson! – We have been guiding Mt. [Click here to see the archived Cybercast of the Mount Vinson … 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. Alpine Ascents: 2007-2008 Mount Vinson Expedition Update December 18, 2007 : Hi this is Winslow calling in the Vinson climbing team. Mount Vinson, Antarctica. And the food was fantastic! Outstanding experience. From the summit, we are blessed with views of neighboring Mt. At Alpine Ascents, environmental stewardship remains one of our core values and we take Leave No Trace ethics and practices very seriously. Dear Alpine Ascents: Insulating Ice Axe Handles. We pride ourselves on being available for your phone calls and emails, and we have a 24-hour emergency number. Photo: Monika Witkowska, Vinson Summit. Alpine Ascents International leads expeditions that have become benchmarks of quality in the climbing community. Photo: Monika Witkowska, Moving to Base Camp from our Twin Otter landing strip. Please arrive early in the day if possible, as we try to complete gear check on this day. Posted in Dispatches | Comments Off on All Alpine Ascents Vinson climbers have now returned to Punta Arenas. High quality guiding and logistics across the board. All expenses incurred in the event of early departure (evacuation fees, transport, extra hotel nights, etc. Alpine Ascents International leads expeditions that have become benchmarks of quality in the climbing community. Posted in Dispatches | Tagged Post by Voice. After being stuck in base camp for four days we were able to fly back to Punta Arenas. – We provide excellent logistics and office staff including Alpine Ascents led gear checks and pick ups in Punta Arenas and hotel assistance including a meet and greet in Punta. Caryn Reedy on Alpine Ascents Cybercast: Summit! Guides who have summited the tallest; nastiest peaks around the world. We have an excellent travel agent who can get you out of Punta Arenas as quickly as possible with 24-hour call service. At camp you can rest and recover from the expedition, or take part in excursions and activities that will be going on around camp. Erin Carney on A Few Select Images from the Journey; Mary …