Everest, Cho Oyu and K2 left for Winter Himalayan Climbs

The efforts on Manaslu and Nanga Parbat ended without summits leaving one solo climber on Everest, a team of Sherpas with one client on K2, and two Nepali teams racing for the summit on Cho Oyu. Depending on which definition of the end of winter you use, the Meteorological definition at the end of February, or March 20, 2022, the Astronomical definition, teams are now focused on making their summit bids.

One by One, Winter Himalayan Climbs End

With the heavy snowfall, and unrelenting winds, one by one, the ambitious winter plans are falling. There is a reason so few people attempt any of the world’s highest peaks in the winter, and this season is a case study. It appears unlikely anyone will summit this winter … but I could be wrong!

Everest 2022: Video Interview with Adrian Ballinger, Alpenglow

With the Everest 2022 season just around the corner, it appears the Tibet side will be closed and continued uncertainty about the wisdom of climbing on the Nepal side. There are questions as to whether operators should run their programs at all. Many are moving forward but a few are not. I discuss the situation with Adrian Ballinger, founder of Alpenglow Expeditions who has canceled his expedition from the Tibet side this spring. We also talk about his plans for a no O’s, ski descent on Makalu.

Winter Himalayan Climbs Fight the Weather

Poor weather across the Himalayas continues to stall significant progress on Evererst and Manaslu. Another team joins the race to create a commercial route on Cho Oyu and tragedy in Patagonia. 

Winter Himalayan Climbs Go/ No Go

Winter climbs of the world’s highest peaks have a poor summit rate primarily due to harsh weather. Well, history repeats itself this winter of 2021/2022. Teams are calling it quits or returning to large cities to wait out the weather.

Poor Weather Hampers Winter Himalayan Climbs

Jost Kobusch on Winter 2022 Everest

Well, it’s winter in the northern hemisphere, so poor weather is the norm. Teams across Nepal and Pakistan are feeling it. And in Antarctica, they are suffering as well. Welcome to 2022.

Heavy Snow Stalls Himalayan Climbs

2008 Everest Icefall Avalanche

Heavy snow has stalled most progress across the Himalayas. Meanwhile, good conditions in Antarctica are allowing multiple Vinson summits. Teams start out on Aconcagua.

Climbing Updates Early 2022

Manaslu Camp January 2022 by Simone Moro

As we enter 2022, climbing activity around the world hits its stride. However, poor weather has delayed several expeditions so patience is a virtue. Looking forward a few months to Spring Everest 2002, uncertainty is growing as more companies cancel their plans. Also, can you sue your guide if you don’t summit?

Recent Climbing Updates

Leaving for Antarctica. Courtesy of Madison Mountaineering

With winter now officially here, we are seeing some ambitious climbs begin on Everest, Manalsu, and even Nanga Parbat. So here’s a quick round-up of some of the more interesting activities.