Despite several days of extremely erratic weather and power outages we finally got our chance to go for the top. Our summit day started off clear but a bit windy but we quickly ascended into a whiteout cloud cap sitting on the mountain. We climbed for about 5 hours with winds of 30kph – 60kph and visibility below 40 meters. Temps were arctic. However, the team came prepared and climbed wonderfully. Climbers were taking care of themselves, saying warm, eating and drinking and generally climbing like pros! 

After breaking trail for the entire climb out front through the whiteout we finally reached the top of the fixed lines and crested the summit ridge where it finally started to clear intermittently and warm slightly. Another 15 minutes traversing brought us to the summit. We had the top all to ourselves for the duration while we snapped some quick pics and got the heck out of there! 

We’re now back safely in the valley where we’re enjoying great food, hot showers and even a beer or two. Tomorrow we fly to Moscow to tour the city before heading home the following day. Amazing work and congrats to our team on their huge success!

All best, 

Mike Hamill
CTSS Owner