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The peaks and talus covered passes of the Arrigetch are plastered with snow and yesterday’s 12 hour window of good weather has shut down again. Although we are only 16 miles from the Noatak, Ariel Peak is too snowy to go up and over and we got turned back by wet slabs on Escape Pass. In strong winds and rain we are heading down to brush again, forced to backtrack and try a long and ugly route that we hope will lead to the Noatak. At least rationing food has been easy since we don’t have firewood to cook our meals. Hands down, this is the worst stretch of weather we’ve had since the storms of the Inside Passage. Although our venture into the Arrigetch turned out to be a costly side trip, seeing this spectacular valley has been a treat nonetheless. In a certain way, we’ve come to expect that things often get harder before they get easier – so the easier can’t be too far off!
Brendan said:
Wow. It’s hard to believe that there is already too much snow! But, the tougher the trip, the better the stories!!
Willy Van Hemert said:
Sounds tough, I just listened to Encounters by Richard Nelson and he talked about the glory of rain and how we are all made of it ! He also said Kotzebue is the sunniest place in Alaska. I wish some would head your way.
Love, Mom
Ashley Van Hemert said:
I feel so far away from you guys right now. I’m currently in a windowless room with nothing but machines as my company. A little drizzle was enough to deter me from biking to work yesterday. On the other hand, you guys are experiencing extreme weather and less-than-appealing travel options and you’re still so upbeat and finding the bright side to look at. I’m impressed and inspired. I hope you and the Noatak meet soon. Thinking of you everyday.
Andrew Skurka said:
Two friends of mine were ejected by the Arrigetch by the same storm. Thankfully they didn’t have to find a way over or around it.
Lesson 1 for the through-traveler: you should always know of a route that will “go” regardless of the conditions — high avalanche risk, stormy weather, big surf, etc. If your intended route isn’t in-season, at least you won’t be stuck and/or risking your entire trip.
Lesson 2: in wild places like Alaska, “It’s not over until you are placing your order.” Nature is really good at hanging you up, even if you are “almost there.”
Mary Jo Gasparich said:
Wow, you two have seen so much and done so much, enough to last a lifetime ! We just spent the weekend with Hendrik and Sara (our daughter) in the Cascades. It has been incredible to hear about your experience from your brother. I can’t wait to meet you two courageous folks ! Jim and I have met Ashley and Scott and your parents so you might be next.
Good luck on the remainder of your epic journey ! Take care and God bless,
Mary Jo Gasparich
adrian said:
Hope you are in the duckies by now, enjoying some more time afloat!