We almost didn't make it back from Mt. Baker.
Our guides rushed snow school so we could summit before bad weather hit the next day. Big mistake. We ended up summiting way too late in the afternoon - something you should NEVER do.
Then we saw it: a massive icefall coming straight at us. Our guides, with 25 years of experience, said they'd never seen anything like it. I was roped up with my team, seriously considering cutting myself loose and running.
The ice chunk kept moving toward us, making that terrifying crackling sound. Somehow, we got lucky - it slowed down just enough for us to continue.
KEY LESSONS:
ā Never summit late in the day
ā Don't rush your safety training
ā Always respect the mountain's schedule
ā Listen to your guides
Have you had a close call while climbing? Drop your story below š
#mountaineering #climbing #mountbaker #survival