Tahoe guide calls off Everest climb
Adrian Ballinger with Alpenglow Expeditions based in Olympic Valley has been leading Everest climbs for years. Photo/Alpenglow Expeditions
By Brian Hickey, KCRA-TV
Northern California climbers called off their trips to the world’s tallest mountain this week after growing tension in base camp and dangerous climbing conditions on Mount Everest led to their tough decisions.
Adrian Ballinger is the lead guide and owner of Alpenglow Expeditions based in Lake Tahoe. Ballinger was to lead a group of six climbers to the summit of Everest in the coming weeks, but via his Facebook page Thursday morning announced he was canceling the trip.
The decision comes after 16 Sherpa were killed in an avalanche earlier this week.
The Sherpa are essential support staff for the hundreds of international climbers who attempt to scale the mountain each year.
I heard from friends that the American/European climbers wanted to continue in spite of all those Sherpa being killed. The Sherpa said eff you.
I agree with the Sherpa. Enough is enough. Let them grieve. Treat them with respect, or attempt it without them. As if.