Posts by Robert Gropel

Denali Summit Alaska 2015 (Second attempt)

Again, it was a little daunting going back for a second time.  You don’t want to go back a third time. Four members in our group were also going back a second time.  Once again, we went with Alpine Ascents and were pleased with the service and the guides.  Marisa took extra care with her…

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Aconcagua Summit Argentina 2014/15 (Second attempt)

It is a little daunting going back to the same mountain for a second time- in your mind everything has to be perfect and nothing is left to chance except, of course, for the weather. The prospect of going back a third time was not an option. We went with Inka Expediciones and were happy…

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Kilimanjaro Summit Africa 2014

This was a fun trip and relatively straightforward.  My parents came along (dad 72, mum 68 years old at the time).  Marisa and I summited in 3 ½ hrs from high camp, our guide was running on energiser batteries and I was completely exhausted at the top. We descended into the crater which was the…

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Denali Summit Alaska 2013 (First attempt)

Our hardest trip yet and our first real multi-day glacier experience. We went with Alpine Ascents and were very happy with their service. Our guides Seth and Sam did everything possible to help us perform at our maximum ability. The weather 90% of the time was absolutely perfect.  Unfortunately Marisa developed a severe bronchitis midway…

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Mount Ararat Turkey 2011

One of my favourite climbs- beautiful mountain, beautiful people. I’m not religious, but one can’t deny the biblical history surrounding that mountain which made it much more special. Relatively easy climb which allowed us to really enjoy the experience. And no, we didn’t find the ark.

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