July 8, 2011
Heading down around Washburn's Thumb with big loads. (Photo by Michael Bellamy)
The descent has begun. I spoke with Greg around 3 pm (Alaska time) today, July 8. Gang was all back together and ready to head down from 14,000 ft. Goal is to camp either at 11,000 ft. or even keep going and make it to the Northeast Fork of the Kahiltna tonight at 7,800 ft. Then, it’s a meal, rehydrate, get some sleep and an early morning start for the landing strip. It’s best to move at night, assuming there’s a hard freeze. It’s safer and it’s easier traveling on a firm surface. With a little luck, the team could be in position to fly to Talkeetna about mid-morning on the 9th. Stars need to align to make that happen but not impossible. We’ll know soon.
Phil Ershler