July 29, 2011
A.M.
It was a beautiful night last night. The sky was filled with countless stars with the ‘milky way’ streaking through the middle. It was 3 degrees in my tent last night.
Everyone is strong and doing well this morning. As we prepare to depart for high camp, the plains of Africa below us are covered in a blanket of clouds. But above is crystal clear. This is an exciting day as we descend into the Gorge, then climb the eastern wall with views of the ice fields. We will continue to trek up through the Valley and up the lava ridge to Barafu Camp (15,500ft). It should take about four-five hours trek. From Barafu we will make the summit push.
P.M.
We left camp at 9 am and arrived at Barafu (15,230 feet) at noon. It was a great walk with beautiful views. Some clouds and a little cooler, but nice weather. The team is doing very well. Our schedule for the day is: lunch, rest, dinner, rest and go for top at midnight.
Scott.