Overview
Should we believe that the unexplored exists, than we must view the isolation of Antarctica as an explorers final frontier. Unparalleled in its pristine and absolute beauty, the journey to the great white continent and the climb of Mt. Vinson ignites man's primal instincts for wilderness, the elements and conquest. The sheer magnitude of the continent and exquisite nature of the ascent is an extreme and remarkable experience.

Mount Vinson, located 600 miles from the South Pole and 1,200 miles from the northern tip of the Antarctic Peninsula, is the highest peak on the antarctic continent. Vinson is part of the Ellsworth Mountains, which rise majestically from the Ronne Ice Shelf.

The climb of Mt. Vinson is moderate by technical standards. It is similar to other alpine routes with moderate slopes and glaciated terrain. What separates Vinson from all other peaks is the sheer isolation of the mountain and the extraordinary views from its summit. As we approach the top of this remote continent, we peer across thousands of square miles of ice caps and glaciers which then fade into a distinctly curved horizon. From the summit we are blessed with views of neighboring Shinn and Gardner and a multitude of unexplored peaks.

Ski the Last Degree
Alpine Ascents now offers the opportunity for climbers and adventurers to ski from the 89th degree to the 90th degree at the South Pole. This incredible journey was once reserved for explorers on lengthy expeditions but is now accessible via this unique guided trip. We travel by ski equipped aircraft to the 89th degree. From that point, we ski the final length, 70 miles, across wind swept terrain and sastrugi in an effort to reach the Geographical South Pole. This trip takes approximately 10 days. You will have hearty meals and snacks along the way and a comfortable camp each evening to enjoy a group supper prepared by our guides. The prerequisite for any adventurer considering the South Pole ski trip is good physical condition & moderate randonee skiing skills.

An extremely small number of tourists have visited the pole, allowing you to literally make a historical crossing. Reach the Geographic South Pole and realize that you are now standing at the most southerly point on earth where beneath your feet 360 lines of longitude collide and the ice is almost 3,000m (10,000ft) thick. This journey can be made independently or in conjunction with our Mt. Vinson climb.

Climate
The climate on Vinson is generally controlled by the polar ice cap's high-pressure system, creating predominantly stable conditions but, as in any arctic climate, high winds and snowfall are a possibility. Though the annual snowfall on Vinson is low, high winds can cause base camp accumulations up to 18 inches in a year. During the summer season, November through January, there is 24 hours of sunlight. While the average temperature during these months is -20ºF, the intense sun will melt snow on dark objects.

Climbing Level
Those wishing to embark on this unique journey should possess prior climbing skills and be prepared for harsh conditions of extreme cold and, at times, ferocious winds. Climbers must be in strong physical condition and be able to carry 65 pounds. Basic mountaineering skills required include self-arrest, glacier travel and crevasse rescue.

Meals
We strive to provide a balanced diet while on the continent of Antarctica, this includes time spent at Patriot Hills camp and time spent on Mt. Vinson during the climb. The breakfasts usually consist of eggs, pancakes, oatmeal, and some cereals along with a hot drink. Dinners usually consist of a carbohydrate, a vegetable, and a meat portion. Examples are rice, pasta, mixted vegetables, chicken, fish, or beef. Our hot drinks selection consists of hot cocoa, apple cider, tea, coffee.

Fixed Line Use
Between our camp two and camp three on Mt. Vinson is a fixed line section that involves climbing with the assistance of a fixed line in place. The elevation gain is roughly 1500 ft and takes several house to ascend this section. The slope angle does not surpass 30 degrees and is best climbed with crampons, ice axe, and use of an ascender. The fixed lines are regularly maintained and are constructed of high quality climbing ropes and anchors. We take breaks regularly during this portion of the climb.

PREREQUISITES

Climbing Skill Level
Climbers should have successfully completed our 6-Day Training course or have equivalent skills and experience. They must have basic knowledge of progression on snow and ice, self arrest, crevasse rescue and glacier travel and be prepared for harsh conditions of extreme cold and, at times, ferocious winds. Basic mountaineering skills required include self-arrest, glacier travel and crevasse rescue.

Physical Conditioning
Vinson at 16,067’ is an extreme, high altitude climb. You should be comfortable climbing 4-8 hours per day. Summit day is the most demanding portion of the climb, typically involving 8 hours for the ascent and 6-7 hours for the descent. Be prepared to carry a 65-pound pack but weight may be substantially lighter when we use sleds. Generally you carry 30 pounds in a backpack and 20 pounds on a sled.

Our expeditions require strength & endurance. Being in sound physical condition is the single most important aspect for climbers to maximize their climbing potential. The better your physical condition, the more likely you are to perform well and have an enjoyable experience. The most frequent comment we have received over the years is that climbers have underestimated the fitness level needed to fully enjoy their trip. Additionally, inadequate fitness will affect the atmosphere, pace, and overall enjoyment of the climb for all participants. We highly recommend checking with your physician before undertaking any strenuous activity. Comprehensive training information can be found here.

Environmental Responsibility
Alpine Ascents is deeply committed to maintaining ecosystems at home and around the world, especially in the pristine environment of Antarctica. 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. Alpine Ascents reaches for the highest ethical business practices at home and abroad. Each staff member is dedicated to environmentally sound alpine ascents.

At Alpine Ascents environmental stewardship remains one of our core values and we take Leave No Trace ethics and practices very seriously. The mountains are our home and we are unwilling to sacrifice their preservation for human objectives. On every one of our courses and climbs we teach and follow the environmentally appropriate Leave No Trace principals and practices.

Over the years, with the assistance of our Sherpa teams, we have stepped up efforts to clean Mt. Everest. Our Wag Bag® program made a pioneering step in human waste management for the National Park System and Forest Service in the North Cascades. On Aconcagua, we pioneered a waste removal system on our climbs, utilizing the WAG Bag® system. And we continue our on-going maintenance and minimal impact plans wherever we guide. We believe that given the proper information most people will do all they can to help protect and maintain the environment. Alpine Ascents is committed to developing safe, self-reliant and environmentally conscious mountaineers.

Private Groups
We regularly organize private climbsfor individuals, corporate groups, families and friends. We encourage you to book these climbs early as we are often able to cater these climbs to group-specific desires. Please contact our office to further discuss the benefits of private courses.