- Climb the tallest peak in North America with fellow NOLS climbers
- Take the road less traveled for a remote experience on the mountain
- Experience an extended expedition
The highest peak in North America—known as Denali or “Great One” by Alaska Natives—is the site for this expedition designed for qualified NOLS graduates. Denali offers extremely challenging glacier travel and some of the most difficult weather in the world, so this course is one of the most demanding NOLS offers, both physically and mentally. During the course you’ll attempt to climb the Muldrow Glacier route on the north side of the mountain.
The expedition begins with several days of tundra hiking followed by navigating up the lower expanses of the Muldrow Glacier. After a resupply at McGonagall Pass, you’ll continue up the Muldrow, encountering crevasses and deep snow, and ascend the dramatic Karsten’s Ridge to the Harper Glacier. There you’ll establish high camp at approximately 17,000 feet, from which you’ll attempt the 20,320-foot summit. This route has a remote wilderness flavor that is not found on the more frequented routes up the mountain.
For qualified alumni only.
See Frequently Asked Questions
- The initial application deadline for Denali Mountaineering 2018 is December 1, 2017.
- Applicants who meet the initial deadline will be notified by December 31, 2017.
- Applications received after December 1 will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Qualified applicants will be offered space if available or placed on a wait list.
Activity Rating:
Heavy packs and sleds, high altitude, harsh conditions, and a short summit window make for a challenging expedition.