Camp to G1/G2 Base Camp and Return to Army Camp Near Concordia – 9 hours
We woke early to clear skies and a biting cold wind after a freezing night. The sleeping bags and warm layers were lifesavers—grateful for every feather of insulation!
The hike to G1/G2 Base Camp took three hours, passing an army camp that was sadly littered with piles of rubbish, old fuel cans, and even a helicopter wreck from a past crash. Seeing the pollution in such a pristine place was tough.
The last stretch to base camp was challenging but rewarding—4 base camps out of 14 DONE! A few days ago, I honestly didn’t think we’d make it here. Since this base camp counts for both G1 and G2, it feels like a major accomplishment.
While snapping photos by the sign, a team from @sevensummittreks invited us into their mess tent. The boys were thrilled—they served tea, Coca-Cola, and real Oreos (not the local ones!). Among the climbers were two preparing to summit G2 and a Swiss woman aiming to conquer all 14 peaks. They had been waiting out some tricky weather and planned an acclimatization hike soon. Chatting with them lifted our spirits immensely; after being unwell and battling the hike, this kindness was a true morale boost. The boys practically skipped down the mountain after!
The return trek, though along the same rugged path, was easier with the wind at our backs and more downhill stretches. We aimed to reach Concordia, but the trek took longer than expected. So we set up camp about two hours short of Concordia, near an old army site.
As we pitched tents, the weather turned, bringing another wave of wind and snow. We arrived cold, hungry (no lunch again), and a bit disappointed not to make it all the way, but there’s a feeling of accomplishment all the same. Here’s to hoping for good weather and a solid trek tomorrow.
Family Russell-Smith Travel 