On the Summit

Aug 30 2007

I’m back from my backpacking trip to the Wind River Mountain range in Western Wyoming. You can read a full trip report and see lots of pictures at www.jercore.com

The highlight of the trip for me was clinging to the summit of Fremont Peak:

Jeremy Hanks on the Summit of Fremont Peak

At 13,745 feet, Fremont Peak is the 3rd highest peak in Wyoming. It’s only 59 feet lower than the highest peak, Gannett Peak, also in the Wind Rivers. I don’t use the term ‘clinging’ lightly either. The wind was gusting over 40 MPH, and there was a sheer cliff just below me. But I wanted to make sure I touched the highest point on that mountain.

This was a big personal accomplishment for me. It’s the highest I’ve ever been (by 1,996 feet). It’s only the second Class 3 — (Class III – climbing, often on steep rock or snow. Handholds and footholds must be utilized to make upward progress. Injury inducing falls of up to five or six feet are possible. You must use your hands to make upward progress.) — scramble I’ve ever done. Our basecamp was over 12 miles into the backcountry and then it was an additional 4.5 miles of hiking and 3,300 feet of elevation gain from that basecamp to the summit. In short: it wasn’t easy to get to where that picture was taken.

When I got back, I got thinking about how the process of reaching a summit can apply to business. So over the next few weeks, intermixed with other posts I’m sure, I’ll be posting my thoughts and ideas that draw from what I learned on my most recent adventure to the mountains.

It’s good to be back. But it was sure good to be gone too. ;)

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  • I love the photo: In 1842, Fremont said. " I sprang upon the
    summit, and another step would have precipitated me into an immense snow-field five hundred feet below. To the edge of this field was a sheer icy precipice; and then, with a gradual fall, the field sloped off for about a mile, until it struck the foot of another lower ridge."

    I did a study some years ago which identified the particular peak climbed by the 1842 expedition:
    http://www.longcamp.com/bob_fpk.html
    Congratulations,
    Bob
  • Whoa! That picture is awesome! However, I've decided I don't want to see any more of the pictures. It's too painful. Just makes me even more sad that my knee injury kept me from going with you guys. However, doc is confident I'll be back in action for next trip.
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