Concordia to K2 Base Camp – 12 km, 7 hours
As usual, we woke early, ready for a challenging day. The boys and Mum were in good spirits, but Dad was struggling, feeling exhausted and unable to eat breakfast. Still, the adventure waits for no one!
The first obstacle was an icy ridge that cuts across the valley. The previous shortcut route was too risky this year, with the ice bridge dangerously thin and precarious over a fast-flowing, icy river. While some groups chanced it, we opted for the safer route, even if it added an hour to our hike. It was slippery and tough but doable.
After navigating the ridge, we faced a long, grueling climb up a moraine covered with boulders and uneven terrain. A few hours in, we finally made it onto the glacier, where the path was a bit easier.
Our first stop was Broad Peak Base Camp, checking off the first of the #14Basecamps on our list! We felt an immense sense of accomplishment. A Slovak-Mexican team welcomed us warmly, and the boys were captivated, asking the Mexican climber every question they could think of. He was incredibly patient, answering them all with a smile. Meanwhile, John’s energy was flagging even more—altitude, illness, or exhaustion, we weren’t quite sure.
We pressed on along the “glacial highway” towards K2, encountering climbers who, as usual, were fascinated by the boys. When we reached the iconic sign overlooking K2 Base Camp, the view took our breath away. We snapped some fantastic photos with the mighty K2 towering in the background.
Base Camp #2 of the #14Basecamps—done!
Upon our arrival, we were welcomed in for dinner and offered a place to sleep rather than setting up our tents. Most climbers were high up the mountain, taking advantage of a good weather window. The boys were thrilled to sleep in the “chill dome,” while Mum and they explored the camp. Unfortunately, Dad was feeling too rough to join and went straight to bed, sleeping from our arrival through the night.
Tomorrow, we’ll see if we can catch another glimpse of the mountain before heading back to Concordia.
Family Russell-Smith Travel 