Why Climb Vinson with Alpine Ascents?

The recent allure of summiting the highest point on each continent, has brought a great number of climbers to the seven summits. Yet, even with this popularity, Vinson has seen less than 1,000 people stand atop its pyramid. The praises of the climb and its nearby surroundings have spread quickly throughout the mountaineering community. Alpine Ascents International is generally considered the premier Vinson guide service. The climb utilizes multiple methods of air transportation including a Ilyushin 76 and a ski–equipped Twin Otter.

Key Elements of our Climb and Success
Experience. We have been guiding Vinson since 1990.

Personnel. Highly experienced lead guides stationed on the continent allowing for flexibility and an understanding of current mountain conditions. Alpine Ascents is known worldwide for the unparalleled quality of its guide staff. While many other outfitters are little more than a "one man show," all of our trips are led by professional mountaineers with great flexibility in guide staff, full-time office support, logistics and access and information for other great climbs around the world.

Success. 2008: Another stellar year on Vinson with 3 full teams and 100% success and 33 climbers (plus our fabulous guides). Todd and Winslow Passey along with Vern Tejas lead each of our summit teams. 2007: two trips with 100%. 2006: Typical 100% summit success with 41 climbers spread out over 7 expeditions. Since 1990, we have had a 90% success rate on our Mount Vinson Expeditions.

Value. In 2006 we were the least expensive outfitter to run expeditions yet offered the highest quality.

Cybercasts. Regular dispatches posted to our website by satellite phone so friends and families can follow the expeditions.

Precise Logistics.
• Small climber-to-guide ratios of 5:1 or less.
• A full time Alpine Ascents staff member/guide assisting climbers in Punta Arenas.
• Carefully composed menus based on over 15 years of experience.
• Proactive method of dealing with flight changes and the ability to change flights while still in Antarctica.
• Six separate trip offerings.

Multiple Departures: We offer 6 separate expeditions every season, allowing for a greater level of flexibility when scheduling you adventure.

Cybercasts: Alpine Ascents provides family and friends the opportunity to follow our climbs as they proceed. Utilizing state-of-the art technology, we receive regular dispatches from the climbers and post them on our web site. Not only does one feel the excitement of watching a team as it moves up the mountain, the archived cybercasts provide an excellent resource and learning tool when researching expeditions. Enjoy the show!

Previously on Mt. Vinson
2004 marked a banner year for Alpine Ascents on Vinson. All four of our expeditions had 100% success rates. Lakpa Rita Sherpa became the first Sherpa (native to Nepal) to reach the summit. The 2002 climb saw all 10 members of the trip make it to the summit. Both of our 2000-2001 climbs were incredibly successful with 10 of 11 climbers all the way to the summit. The December 1999 climb was very successful and memorable with Willi Prittie leading three climbers to the summit on two separate attempts (one by a new route).