The Hypoxic Hill Hoppers Summit Illimani
The Hypoxic Hill Hoppers made the summit of Illimani (21,125 ft)! The route was in pretty perfect condition and the views were excellent, but the summit was windy enough that we didn’t get a good team summit photo. But we did snap a team photo with all of the cooks, guides, and climbers together back in base camp.
Speed Ascent Team returns to Kathmandu
Hi all,
We’re happy to share that the team has safely returned to Kathmandu yesterday after a wonderful marking the successful completion of our Everest Base Camp trek and Island Peak climb. It’s been an incredible journey—filled with strong trekking, a great team dynamic, and a memorable summit on Island Peak. We’re proud of how everyone showed up throughout the trip and grateful for the experience shared in the Khumbu.
Thank you for following along, and we look forward to sharing more soon.
— Jonathon
Speed Ascent Team Summits Island Peak!
Hi all,
We kicked off the day with a true alpine start, waking around midnight at Island Peak Base Camp (16,650ft) and beginning our ascent at 1:00am under clear, calm skies. Moving steadily by headlamp, we worked our way up the steep lower slopes—an engaging mix of dirt trail and talus—gaining elevation as the stars slowly gave way to first light. Around 5:30am, at approximately 18,000ft, we were treated to an incredible sunrise over the high peaks of the Himalaya—one of those moments that makes the early start more than worthwhile. From here, we reached the edge of the Island Peak glacier, 18,500ft where we transitioned into full mountaineering mode: double boots, crampons, harnesses, and ice axes on.
The team moved efficiently across the glacier, navigating crevasses and then tackling the steep headwall leading to the summit ridge. With strong teamwork and great pacing, we continued upward and, just before 9:30am, the entire team stood together on the summit of Island Peak (6,189m / 20,305 ft). We were fortunate to have ideal summit conditions—no wind and clear skies in every direction. The views were absolutely breathtaking, with Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, and the surrounding peaks dominating the horizon. We spent about 45 minutes on top, taking it all in and celebrating the team’s success.
From there, we carefully retraced our steps down the headwall and across the glacier, returning to Base Camp where we were welcomed with hot ramen, tea, and well-earned snacks. With energy still in the tank and good weather holding, we continued our descent down to Chukung (~4,730m), where we enjoyed a big dinner and a much-needed night of rest.
An incredible day in the mountains and a strong team effort all around!
Jonathon and the team
Speed Ascent team moves to Island Peak Base Camp
Everest Base Camp Speed Ascent Team rests in Dingbouche
Hi all,
Happy April 1 from Dingbouche. The team enjoyed a wonderful rest day here in town. Some members caught up on reading their books while others enjoyed a mid day nap. In the afternoon we packed and prepared for our Island Peak portion of the trip. Tomorrow we will leave Dingbouche and heading up the valley towards Island Peak spending 1 night (2 days) along the way in a tea house before reaching Island Peak basecamp. Right now we are aiming for an April 4th summit attempt on Island Peak. This will be the first time over 20,000ft for this team of climbers!
We will keep you all updated and thanks for following our cybercast!
Jonathon and the team
Looking down into the town of Dingbouche
It was clear that Vern & Carole are pros and very knowledgeable. They shared their passion for the Khumbu region with us. The local Sherpas were very helpful as well.
