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Meetings
The PCS holds an open meeting on the second Tuesday of each month. Our meetings usually begin with a little business, and then a chance for members to tell about recent climbs and announce upcoming trips. We then have a break for socializing, discussing trips, and enjoying a little food and drink. A program of some sort follows; most often a member gives a slide show. On occasion, we've had slide shows and talks from famous climbers such as Royal Robbins and Jules Eichorn.
In the summer, one of our meetings is usually an outdoor BBQ at a local park. There is typically a gear swap at this meeting.
At the December Christmas meeting we dispense with the usual business and indulge in a potluck dinner, and sometimes singing. The show at the Christmas meeting is a medley of a slides from everybody; about a dozen per person.
Twice each year, there is a trip planning meeting. Current and prospective trip leaders get together in order to plot the course of the PCS trip schedule for the next six months.
Cordillera Blanca Environmental Expedition 2011 - Slideshow by Bill Straka
March 13, 2012 from 07:30 PM to 09:30 PM
In June-July 2011, Bill Straka joined the Cordillera Blanca Environmental Expedition to research environmental changes in the Cordillera Blanca regon of the Peruvian Andes. Bill was field director and team leader for one of the 9 teams, as well as serving as the GPS and GIS lead.
The CBEE2011 was sponsored by the American Alpine Club, in cooperation with the Peruvian Environmental Ministry and Huascaran National Park. The team of 17 mountaineer-scientists gathered samples of soil, water, air, ice, and snow from 12 mountains in 6 massifs, as well as gathering ground truth at GPS-documented locations to aid in satellite studies. Data were gathered from 2900 to 6769 meters on these mountains at 500 meter elevation intervals. Recession of a number of glaciers was measured, based on a predecessor expedition in 2009 and satellite imagery. There is extensive mining and industrial activity in the close vicinity to the Cordillera Blanca, along with thousands of years of agricultural activity.
Come and enjoy the photographs of the mountains, as well as of the tour that Bill and his wife Barbara took of archaeological sites just prior to the main expedition.
Climbing in the shadow of the great Kanch - A Sikkim climbing adventure, Slideshow by Arun Mahajan
February 14, 2012 from 07:30 PM to 09:30 PM
In the fall of 2011, PCS member Arun Mahajan journeyed to the western part of Sikkim, the land-locked Indian state bordered by Nepal, Tibet Bhutan and West Bengal, for some trekking and climbing along with one leader/guide and another climber. Their group trekked in from Yuksom, the historic capital city of the Chogyal Kings of Sikkim along the Goecha La trekking route. From base camp, they made three forays into the small range of relatively unknown peaks nearby. There, they set up advanced base camp, explored routes and then eventually climbed three peaks of over 5000m, all in the shadow of one of the most beautiful and magnificent massifs of the world, Kangchenjunga.
Come and enjoy some of the photographs of the wonderful flora of Sikkim, of climbing the craggy peaks of the Aaralang Valley and of course, of Kangchenjunga, the third highest peak in the world.
Lassen Volcanic Park - A Wonderland of Volcanoes and Thermal Features - by Patrick Muffler, Geologist Emeritus
January 26, 2012 from 07:00 PM to 09:00 PM
Not Sponsored by the PCS
Lassen Peak, the southernmost active volcano in the Cascade Range,explosively erupted in 1915, devastating nearby areas and raining volcanic ash as far away as 200 miles to the east.
Lassen National Park, in addition to prominent volcanic areas,contains the most spectacular array of thermal features in the Cascade Range including fumaroles, bubbling mud pots, and a boiling lake.
A new USGS map shows volcanic centers in unprecedented detail,enabling development of products to better evaluate and assess regional volcanic hazards.
The Long Way to Mera Peak: Trekking and Peak Bagging in Nepal - A Slideshow by Kelly Maas
January 10, 2012 from 07:30 PM to 07:30 PM
In October 2009 Kelly Maas joined Warren Storkman for one of his infamous Nepal trips. They planned to climb Mera Peak, a popular trekking peak, but approached it from an unusual direction. From the sweltering lowlands where they started, to the frigid windswept Himalayan skyline where they were forced to turn back, they had a great time walking through beautiful countryside and experiencing warm Nepalese hospitality. Kelly also had some unexpected adventures.
PCS Annual Holiday Party
December 13, 2011 from 07:00 PM to 07:00 PM
Come to the 36th annual PCS Festivus party, on Tuesday, December 13, 2011, at 7:00 p.m., at the Whisman Station clubhouse, at 420 Kent Dr., Mountain View.
Bring a potluck dish that you will be proud to share with your fellow climbers.
Here’s your assignment:
A – D - appetizer
E – I - salad
J – N - main course
O – S – dessert
T – Z – beverages
In addition, feel free to bring your alcoholic beverage of choice, and of course, since we are a green organization, bring your own plate, cup, and eating utensils.
Bring 35 mm slides or a CD with 10 or 12 of your most thrilling climbing photos, from this year or from long ago. Bring your family and friends. Bring a swimsuit and a towel if you envision yourself dipping in the clubhouse hot tub. (Yes, a swimsuit! What? You think this is Tenaya Lake? Even you, Kai.)
Fred Beckey: Climbing in North America
December 7, 2011 from 07:00 PM to 07:00 PM
The Sierra Club Peak Climbing Section has the distinct honor of hosting legendary climber, Fred Beckey, on Wednesday, December 7 at 7pm at Sports Basement Sunnyvale. We hope you will join us! Sierra Club members always get a 10% discount at Sports Basement.
Rocks Rock! - Sonja Dieterich
November 8, 2011 from 07:30 PM to 09:30 PM
When I hike and climb in California, I can't help marveling at the landscape at scales from several thousand miles to the rock I am holding in my hands, wondering how this all came to be. In one evening, I can only give you a glimpse into the fascinating story of rocks, but my goal will be to wet your appetite for more by sharing my best discoveries so far. First, we will solve the case of the missing volcanoes. A classic suspense story where the clue is the missing victim. Next, we will head across the Sierras and go to a geologists heaven: Death Valley. We will crawl on a turtle back, wondering how three of them could have gotten there. Maybe they were trying to get to the remains of a Precambrian Ocean over in Titus Canyon, sandy beach ripples now stuck high up on canyon walls? Ever noticed the slick-n-slides in Fall Canyon? Who laid the mosaics in Mosaic Canyon? You may have driven the Artists' Drive, but have you stopped to explore the weird rock formations on the ventiform ridges across from the drive's entrance? Crawled up all 700 vertical feet (or maybe 650 feet, lively discussion right here!) and met two of the five endemic beetle species living on that dune on the way? Seen a stretched pebble? The famous pregnant bighorn sheep petroglyph? All this and more can be seen while you climb some nice desert peaks, too!
Fall/Winter/Spring Trip Planning Meeting
October 12, 2011 from 07:00 PM to 07:00 PM
The time has come to meet and plan our trips for the next 6 months. It is hard to believe that summer is gone and winter, with all its spectacular beauty, is soon to arrive. We need snowshoe and ski trips as well as local peak-bagging trips. Bring your calendar and your appetite. We will have pizza, salad and wine. Please bring a dish to share or a $5-10 (depending upon your consumption) contribution to the kitty. This meeting is targeted at trip leaders, but others are welcome to come and request trips you want to do! If you cannot attend, send email to louisewholey AT gmail.com with your proposed trips or trip requests. I will place them in a shared Google spreadsheet.
The Heck with Reading Lolita in Teheran, Let's Climb! - Tim Terpstra
October 11, 2011 from 07:30 PM to 09:30 PM
In September 2010, a group of climbers from the Alpine Club of Iran visited Wyoming to climb in the Tetons with members of the American Alpine Club. This past June the second half of the climbers' exchange was completed when a group of Americans journeyed to Iran to explore its mountains and experience Iranian culture and hospitality. The premise of the trip was simple: to bring together people with a shared passion for climbing, in spite of the differences in politics, religion, and culture.
During their stay, members of the AAC managed to go bouldering above Tehran, put up a few first ascents below Alam Kuh and on the Sangsar Sol Wall, climb the highest peak in the Middle East (Damavand, @ 18,400'), and make a first non-Iranian canyoneering descent. In addition to climbing some members of the AAC delegation participated in a cultural/historic tour as well. Please join Tim Terpstra, a full time farmer and part-time climber from Washington state, as he shows slides and talks about the four weeks he spent with the AAC delegation to Iran.
Great Climbing Destinations: Coast to Coast
September 13, 2011 from 07:30 PM to 07:30 PM
The most published climbing photographer of the past 20 years, Bay Area native Jim Thornburg is a master at capturing the profound interplay between climber and crag. His photos have graced the covers of numerous magazines and catalogs, including Climbing, Rock and Ice, Patagonia, and Black Diamond.
Tonight, Jim will share highlights of his life’s work, featured in Stone Mountains: North America’s Best Crags, his new large format photo book showcasing 35 climbing areas spanning the continent. Join Jim for a visual tour of treasured crags, including the fantastic granite boulders of Joshua Tree; the perfect limestone of El Potrero Chico (Hidalgo, Mexico); the spectacular overhangs of Red River Gorge (Kentucky) and the Gunks (Shawangunk Ridge, New York state); off-the-track destinations here in the greater Bay Area; and more.
Park around the back of the PCC and enter through the back door.
Georgina Miranda: Climb Take Action on Everest
August 9, 2011 from 07:30 PM to 07:30 PM
In what has become an annual tradition – the Everest slideshow – this year’s presenter fits with Madame Chair’s “Year of the Woman” theme. Join us as Georgina Miranda shares her experience on Everest’s South Side this past Spring. Georgina was climbing Everest as part of her Climb Take Action 7 Summits Challenge.
After reading an article in Glamour in 2007 about the violence against women in the war-torn Democratic Republic of Congo, Georgina founded Climb Take Action in order to empower women in the region by climbing to raise funds and awareness to their suffering. Thousands of women have been neglected, murdered, abducted, brutally raped, tortured, and overall forgotten. Congo Wars have claimed more lives than any conflict since the end of World War II, yet the crisis has received little attention outside of central Africa.
Georgina is a native Los Angelino currently residing in San Francisco. She is a business woman by day (MBA from Loyola Marymount and a full-time management consultant) and an adventurer by night having climbed all around the world, including five of the world’s tallest peaks on each continent.
Come hear Georgina’s riveting story of her Everest climb and about the amazing efforts she has made as an individual to make the world a better place.
PCS Annual Barbeque and Gear Exchange
July 12, 2011 from 07:00 PM to 07:00 PM
The July meeting is our annual BBQ and gear exchange on July 13 at 7:00 at Wildwood Park BBQ area A.
Bring a dish to share, your own specialty, or choose according to first letter of your last name:
A-G Main course (think grilled items)
H-M Appetizer
N-S Veggie or Fruit side
T-Z Dessert
Bring your own beverage (alcohol is ok), $3 to cover reservation and BBQ coals, dinnerware, friends,family, and used gear.
Bring the kids to climb on the play structures. BBQ should be hot by 6 pm for families on an early dinner schedule.
Bring whatever gear you find cluttering your garage or closet. Someone may want or need it. You can even charge something for it, but experience indicates that the lower the price the more likely for a sale. Free is best!
Directions: From 280: Exit at De Anza Blvd; go south for about 5 miles, crossing Hwy 85 about half way to Saratoga. The road changes name at Prospect Rd to Saratoga Sunnyvale Rd.
At the village traffic light at the intersection of DeAnza Blvd, Big Basin Way, Saratoga Ave and Saratoga Los Gatos Road, turn right on Big Basin Way and drive part way through downtown Saratoga. Turn right on 4th St, the first through street on the right. The park is at the bottom of the hill on your right. Park in park parking (appears to be mostly hotel parking for Saratoga Inn), or park across the road, or along the road, where-ever parking is allowed.
Google driving map: http://tinyurl.com/6cpch4
Mountain Climbing in the Indian Himalaya - Arun Mahajan
June 14, 2011 from 07:30 PM to 09:30 PM
A view of Satopanth (7075m / 23212 ft) and its north flank from the Chaturangi Galcier.
In September 2010, PCS member, Arun Mahajan, joined up with an expedition from the UK, to climb in the Indian Himalaya. They journeyed into the magnificent mountain ranges of the Gangotri Glacier, which includes the peaks of Shivling, Meru and Bhagirathi in the Garhwal region of the Indian Himalaya. They made an attempt on their main objective for this trip, Satopanth, the iconic chisel headed 7000m+ peak, in challenging weather conditions because of the monsoons not releasing their hold in the plains and the mountains. Along the way, they passed by Gaumukh, the source of the mighty Ganga (Ganges) at the terminus of the Gangotri Glacier
Come and experience the beauty and power of the Himalaya, the wonderful scenery and the incredibly helpful and humble people that that inhabit this beautiful corner of the world.
Mountain Rescue War Stories
May 10, 2011 from 07:30 PM to 09:30 PM
We'll have a representative of Bay Area Mountain Rescue share mountain rescue war stories, how to avoid being the subject of a rescue, what to do if you are involved in one.
David Riggs: The Student Alpinist
April 12, 2011 from 07:30 PM to 09:30 PM
Dave Riggs will share images, anecdotes and a regular guy's perspective on the path to climb and ski in all terrain and all conditions.
Dave lives in Truckee. He's been fortunate to call the Sierra home and visit the Alps, Andes, Himalaya, and Alaska. He currently serves as the board chair of the Community Committee for the American Alpine Club and was formerly the chair of the Sierra Nevada Section of the American Alpine Club.
Trekking and Climbing in the Khumbu Region - Nicola Astley
March 8, 2011 from 07:30 PM to 09:30 PM
In 2008, Nicola trekked around the Khumbu region and climbed 2 +20,000ft peaks in one of the most spectacular settings in the world with a backdrop of the Himalayan giants - Mt. Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Cho Oyu and Ama Dablam. She invites you to listen to her experience, to see photos from her adventure and to hear about her plans to return in October.
Nicola says: It was a fantastic trip, but also the hardest thing I've ever done. There are challenges for high altitude expeditions – not just the altitude itself, but keeping healthy, the "Khumbu cough," no showers for 3 weeks, pee bottles (!) and the total lack of clean water. It's not if you'll get a stomach bug, but how bad it'll be. But, it's a stunningly beautiful area - the high mountains, monasteries and the warmth of the Sherpa people will never leave you.
Summer/Fall Trip Planning Meeting
March 1, 2011 from 07:00 PM to 09:00 PM
While February is normally the time for the PCS summer trip planning meeting, we would like to break tradition and have it at 7 pm on March 1 at the home of scheduler Louise Wholey. Food (pizza, salad, etc. - contributions accepted) will be served to allow people to come directly from work. Leaders please come with ideas on trips you would like to lead; climbers please come with ideas for trips you want to do.
The Bugaboos - Louise Wholey
February 8, 2011 from 07:30 PM to 09:30 PM
The Bugaboos is a classic alpine rock climbing area in southern BC, just a few hours travel from us. Spires of solid granite rise elegantly from a beautiful glaciated base. Join us Feb 8 at 7:30 at the PCC in Palo Alto for some spectacular photos of climbing in this great area from guided trips Louise Wholey has made each of the past two years.
10 for 10: A Woman's Place in the Sierra Challenge - Laura Molnar
January 11, 2011 from 07:00 PM to 09:00 PM
Bob Burd describes the Sierra Challenge as something he “conceived… as a personal challenge that was at the edge of my own abilities, and wanted to share the experience with others who might similarly enjoy a good workout. Besides, suffering is more fun if you have someone to share it with.” 10 days, 10 peaks.
In ten years running this informal event, a number of women had participated, but none had completed the full ten days or climbing all ten of the selected peaks for that year. As a new hiker and mountaineer in 2007, Laura Molnar had heard about the marathon hikes and climbs of the peaks each summer, and never dreamed she would consider those sorts of goals for herself. Please join Laura as she describes the trails that led her to test herself in the realm of extreme day hiking; the training she underwent – both physically and mentally – to be ready for the event; the highs and lows of exploring both the great Sierra Nevada and the boundaries we seem to place on ourselves.
Travel with her as she runs the range from Bridgeport to Lone Pine, in the effort to become the first woman to go 10 for 10.
PCS Holiday Party
December 14, 2010 from 07:00 PM to 09:30 PM
Come to the 35th annual PCS Festivus party, on Tuesday, December 14, 2010, at 7:00 p.m., at the Whisman Station clubhouse, at 420 Kent Dr., Mountain View.
Bring a potluck dish that you will be proud to share with your fellow climbers.
Here’s your assignment:
A – D - appetizer
E – I - salad
J – N - main course
O – S – dessert
T – Z – beverages
In addition, feel free to bring your alcoholic beverage of choice, and of course, since we are a green organization, bring your own plate, cup, and eating utensils.
Bring 35 mm slides or a CD with 10 or 12 of your most thrilling climbing photos, from this year or from long ago. Bring your family and friends. Bring a swimsuit and a towel if you envision yourself dipping in the clubhouse hot tub. (Yes, a swimsuit! What? You think this is Tenaya Lake? Even you, Kai.)
Sam Roberts - Expedition to Noshaq (24,581') in Afghanistan
November 9, 2010 from 07:30 PM to 09:30 PM
32 years ago, Sam Roberts was part of a seven person expedition that went to Afghanistan to climb Noshaq (24,581’). Their expedition was the last American group to climb in that region until this past summer when Bill Lyden, an American from Alaska, also travelled to Noshaq. Sam’s presentation will show his expeditions experience, as well as some images from Bill’s recent trip.
Sam Roberts is an award winning photographer and writer based in the San Francisco Bay Area of California. To date, Sam has shot on four continents usually while pursuing in his other passions: mountain climbing, skiing and backcountry travel.
Fall/Winter/Spring Trip Planning Meeting
October 19, 2010 from 07:00 PM to 09:00 PM
The time has come to meet and plan our trips for the next 6 months. It is
hard to believe that summer is gone and winter, with all its spectacular
beauty, is soon to arrive. We need snowshoe and ski trips as well as local
peak-bagging trips.
Bring your calendar and your appetite.
We will have pizza, salad and wine. Please bring a dish to share or a $5-10
(depending upon your consumption) contribution to the kitty.
This meeting is targeted at trip leaders, but others are welcome to come and
request trips you want to do! If you cannot attend, send email to
louisewholey AT gmail.com with your proposed trips or trip requests. I will
place them in a shared Google spreadsheet.
Eszter Tompos - Climbing the High Peaks of Bolivia
October 12, 2010 from 07:30 PM to 09:30 PM
In August 2010 Eszter Tompos arrived in Bolivia to climb three high peaks of the Cordillera Real, a subrange of the Andes mountains, Pequeño Alpamayo (17,600+ ft), Huayna Potosí (19,900+ ft) and Illimani (21,100+Ft) In the process she has learned about moving on ice covered glaciers, stepping over crevasses and placing ice-screws. She also learned some unexpected things, like what the difference is between a llama and an alpaca, how do those Bolivian women keep their top hats on and most importantly, what does it feel like to be the last man (woman) standing at the end of a guided expedition. Come and enjoy the pictures and we’ll guess together where the snowfields end and the clouds start when looking out and down at 20,000 ft.
69 Days in Tibet - Quest for the Seventh Summit - Enrique Rodriguez
September 14, 2010 from 07:30 PM to 09:30 PM
In March 2010, Enrique Rodriguez left sunny sea-level San Francisco
for the icy slopes of Mt. Everest, the highest mountain in the world.
With cold-weather resilience developed over years of waiting for the
school bus in New Hampshire and winter camping skills honed high in
the alpine zone of Mt. Washington, Enrique will discuss his 1st
Himalayan expedition in pursuit of his 7th "Seven Summit."
How long does a Himalayan expedition take? What's day-to-day life like
on an 8,000 meter peak? How do you train for Himalayan climbing? What
gear was bulletproof and what gear totally failed? What's it like
climbing in the "Death Zone?" Did he meet the youngest kid to climb
Everest? ... the top 8,000 meter women? ... any famous Himalayan
veterans with numerous ascents of 8,000 meter peaks? For the answers
to these questions and many more, come September 14th for an exciting
multimedia journey to the "roof of the world!"
Climbing Makalu - Emilie Cortes
August 10, 2010 from 07:00 PM to 09:00 PM
The Makalu Barun region is extremely remote and is the least trekked area in all of Nepal by far - typically seen only by those venturing to climb Makalu or Baruntse. In April/May 2010, Emilie Cortes traveled to the region with a small team of three other climbers to attempt Makalu, the world's 5th highest mountain at a formidable 27,766ft. The team dealt with a hairy dirt airstrip landing, a Maoist strike, violent GI illnesses, unusually rough terrain, numerous animal encounters, a near emergency bivy on the way to ABC, difficult team dynamics, high sustained winds, unprotected crevasses, the effects of extreme altitude on the body and the mind, and Emilie's biggest nemesis of all...scree.
Come hear the story of her first Himalayan expedition and first 8000 meter peak.
Annual BBQ and Gear Exchange
July 13, 2010 from 07:00 PM to 09:00 PM
The July meeting is our annual BBQ and gear exchange on July 13 at 7:00 at Wildwood Park BBQ area A. Bring a dish to share, your own specialty, or choose according to first letter of your last name: A-G Main course (think grilled items) H-M Appetizer N-S Veggie or Fruit side T-Z Dessert Bring your own beverage (alcohol is ok), $3 to cover reservation and BBQ coals, dinnerware, friends,family, and used gear. Bring the kids to climb on the play structures. BBQ should be hot by 6 pm for families on an early dinner schedule. Bring whatever gear you find cluttering your garage or closet. Someone may want or need it. You can even charge something for it, but experience indicates that the lower the price the more likely for a sale. Free is best! Directions: From 280: Exit at De Anza Blvd; go south for about 5 miles, crossing Hwy 85 about half way to Saratoga. The road changes name at Prospect Rd to Saratoga Sunnyvale Rd. At the village traffic light at the intersection of DeAnza Blvd, Big Basin Way, Saratoga Ave and Saratoga Los Gatos Road, turn right on Big Basin Way and drive part way through downtown Saratoga. Turn right on 4th St, the first through street on the right. The park is at the bottom of the hill on your right. Park in park parking (appears to be mostly hotel parking for Saratoga Inn), or park across the road, or along the road, where-ever parking is allowed. Google driving map: http://tinyurl.com/6cpch4
The Haute Route Ski Tour of the Alps - Louise Wholey
June 8, 2010 from 07:30 PM to 09:30 PM
Come enjoy the magnificent beauty of the Alps on the Haute Route from Chamonix to Zermatt. Louise will regale you with lots of stories from this incredible adventure. Many impressive peaks along the way beckon us to return for some of the finest climbing in the Alps.
PCS Monthly Meeting - Your Favorite 14er Climbs
May 11, 2010 from 07:30 PM to 09:30 PM
To get everyone inspired for the summer climbing season we will have a show on contiguous US 14ers. Bring 10 or so of your best pictures from 14er climbs over the years for all of us to see! Lower peaks (like 13500ft), peaks from other areas will also be gladly accepted. Bring your pictures to the meeting or feel free to mail them to the chair before the meeting.
Presenter: All of us.
Climbing Mount Everest - Robert Chang
April 13, 2010 from 07:00 PM to 09:00 PM
Join us for an exciting night high in the Nepal Himalaya on the world's highest peak, Mount Everest with local climber, Robert Chang. Learn more about the training, adventure of trekking and the challenge of climbing Mount Everest. The presentation includes video and slides of his journey in climbing to the top of the world for his sister who passed away from cancer.
The Icy Slopes of Vinson Massif - Enrique Rodriguez
March 9, 2010 from 07:30 PM to 09:30 PM
In January 2010, Enrique Rodriguez left sunny California for the icy slopes of Vinson Massif, the high-point for the continent of Antarctica. With cold-weather resilience developed over years of waiting for the school bus in New Hampshire and winter camping skills honed high in the alpine zone of Mt. Washington, Enrique will discuss his sub-zero expedition in pursuit of his 6th "Seven Summit."
How do you even get to Antarctica, aka "onto the ice" ? What's day-to-day life like on an expedition to "the freezer"? How can you improve your resilience to cold? What gear was bulletproof and what gear totally failed? What's it like climbing with the youngest kid to climb Everest? ... the top Arabian/Palestinian woman? ... Himalayan veterans with numerous ascents of Everest?
For the answers to these questions and many more, come March 9th for an exciting multimedia journey to the coldest place on Earth!
Spring, Summer Trip Planning Meeting
February 23, 2010 from 07:30 PM to 09:30 PM
Come one, come all, let’s have a blast planning our trips for spring, summer and fall. Leaders, please come with ideas for trips you want to plan. Climbers, bring ideas for what you want to do this year. There will be pizza (donations requested to cover the cost), salad and vegetables so that you do not need to have dinner before the meeting. Those who can, please bring a pot luck dish to share.
Climbing in Cordillera Blanca - Jonathan Crabtree
February 9, 2010 from 07:30 PM to 09:30 PM
3rd Quote-of-the-trip: "Climbing at altitude in foreign countries...it's like climbing at home...while sick." The photos speak for themselves in this slide show recounting our successes, failures, logistical nightmares and preparation surrounding three weeks of traveling, alpine climbing and fighting germs in the Cordillera Blanca range of the Peruvian Andes. The un-paralleled scenery and humorous tales are sure to entertain both the vertically inclined and horizontally content!
Climbing Aconcagua - Gulnur Tumbat
January 12, 2010 from 07:30 PM to 09:30 PM
Gülnur Tumbat is the first Turkish woman to climb Aconcagua (22,841ft). In January 2009, she reached the summit solo, the highest point in South America and outside of Asia. She also was the first Turkish woman to reach the summit of Denali (20,320ft) in June 2007, the highest peak in North America. She has been a climber for more than 15 years and has climbed in Turkey, Russia, Georgia, Nepal, Argentina, and the US. She is an Assistant Professor of Marketing at SFSU where she researches risk marketing and risk consumption and uses her expeditions also as sites for data collection. In her presentation titled "A Distant-Solo-High-Altitude-Climbing Experiment," she will talk about her experiences on Aconcagua as a solo woman climber.
PCS Holiday Party
December 8, 2009 from 07:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Come to the 34th annual PCS Festivus party, on Tuesday, December 8, 2009, at 7:00 p.m., at the Whisman Station clubhouse, at 420 Kent Dr., Mountain View. Bring a potluck dish that you will be proud to share with your fellow climbers. Here’s your assignment: A – D - appetizer E – I - salad J – N - main course O – S – dessert T – Z – beverages In addition, feel free to bring your alcoholic beverage of choice, and of course, since we are a green organization, bring your own plate, cup, and eating utensils. Bring 35 mm slides or a CD with 10 or 12 of your most thrilling climbing photos, from this year or from long ago. Bring your family and friends. Bring a swimsuit and a towel if you envision yourself dipping in the clubhouse hot tub. (Yes, a swimsuit! What? You think this is Tenaya Lake?)
Climbing Mt. Vinson in 1966 and 2006 - Bill Straka
November 10, 2009 from 07:30 PM to 09:30 PM
In December 2006, Bill Straka went to Antarctica as a member of the 40th Anniversary American Antarctic Expedition. The Expedition included four members of the original 1966 American Antarctic Expedition plus a son and a daughter of two of the original members who could not make it.
The original expedition made the first ascent of Mt. Vinson, the highest peak in Antarctica, and other peaks of the Vinson Massif and Sentinel Range. One of the goals was to place a plaque on the summit, honoring the first ascent party. Bill will show images of the expedition, along with images taken in Patagonia after the return to Chile.
Climbing in the Alps - Isabelle Peyrichoux
October 13, 2009 from 07:30 PM to 09:30 PM
This past summer, Isabelle set out to Chamonix (France) to do a 6-day mountaineering course and fulfill her longtime dream to climb Mont Blanc, highest peak in the Alps (4,810 m - 15,781ft). During these six days climbing several 3000m/4000m peaks, traveling on glacier, ice, snow and rock, hanging in a crevasse, and traveling from huts to huts across France, Switzerland and Italy, Isabelle fell in love again with the amazing beauty of the Mont Blanc range. Through inspiring pictures, Isabelle will share with you her journey going back to her native country to climb in one of the most beautiful mountain range in the world and one of the places where alpinism all began!
PCS Fall Scheduling Meeting
September 22, 2009 from 07:00 PM to 09:00 PM
Come to Jeff Fisher's home on Tuesday, September 22 at 7 pm to create the fall-wionter-spring climbing schedule. Leaders who cannot attend, please send trip plans by email. Climbers, please come with your peak climb wish-list, or sent it by email. Bring a dish or drink to share - along with your smile! The fun happens at Jeff Fisher's house at 7 p.m. 15064 Charmeran Avenue San Jose Jeff's phone: (cell) 650-207-9632
Emilie Cortes and John Gray - The Upper West Rib of Denali
September 8, 2009 from 07:00 PM to 09:00 PM
Emilie Cortes and John Gray, aka Team X Whisperers, formed a 2 person team to face the Upper West Rib of Denali (aka Mt McKinley) in June 2009. It was John’s fourth time on Denali and Emilie’s first time ever to Alaska. What was it like to suffer day after day uphill in temperatures that vacillated from subzero to boiling with a heavy pack and sled? Did all the logistical planning pay off or did they miss something critical? Did the dreaded “heat collecting volcanic ash” from the Mount Redoubt eruption in March affect the glacier conditions? Did the expedition strain their friendship or strengthen it? Did they summit? All these questions and more will be answered…
August Meeting - Hal Tompkins and the Descent of Robber's Roost
August 11, 2009 from 07:30 PM to 09:30 PM
Hal Tompkins will describe canyoneerint in the Robber's Roost area in October, 2008. His party descended 5 technical canyons and then did a two-day non-technical backpack into the North Fork of Robber's Roost Canyon.
Outdoor BBQ and Gear Swap
July 14, 2009 from 06:00 PM to 09:00 PM
The July meeting is our annual BBQ and gear exchange on July 14 at 6:00 at Wildwood Park BBQ area A. See http://tinyurl.com/6qpm4p. Bring a dish to share, your own specialty, or choose according to first letter of your last name: A-G Main course (think grilled items) H-M Appetizer N-S Veggie or Fruit side T-Z Dessert Bring your own beverage (alcohol is ok), $3, dinnerware, friends and family. Bring the kids to climb on the play structures. BBQ should be hot by 6 pm for families on an early dinner schedule. Our reservation is 5–9 pm. Bring whatever gear you find cluttering your garage or closet. Someone may want or need it. You can even charge something for it, but experience indicates that the lower the price the more likely for a sale. Free is best! Directions: From 280: Exit at De Anza Blvd; go south for about 5 miles, crossing Hwy 85 about half way to Saratoga. The road changes name at Prospect Rd to Saratoga Sunnyvale Rd. At the village traffic light at the intersection of DeAnza Blvd, Big Basin Way, Saratoga Ave and Saratoga Los Gatos Road, turn right on Big Basin Way and drive part way through downtown Saratoga. Turn right on 4th St, the first through street on the right. The park is at the bottom of the hill on your right. Park in park parking (appears to be mostly hotel parking for Saratoga Inn), or park across the road, or along the road, where-ever parking is allowed. Google driving map: http://tinyurl.com/6cpch4
Climbing in the Alps
June 9, 2009 from 07:30 PM to 09:30 PM
Mike and Andrea Snadden will share their climbing experiences in the Alps.
Bill Hauser's 1964 Climb of Mt McKinley, Super 8 films put on DVD
May 12, 2009 from 07:30 PM to 09:30 PM
Bill Hauser was the 157th recorded person to summit Mt. McKinley. Bill will be there to answer questions.
Photo Credit: Nic McPhee, http://www.flickr.com/photos/nicmcphee/
Nepal: Touristing in the Kathmandu Valley, Everest Base Camp Trek, Climb of Lobuche East and Attempt on Ama Dablam
April 14, 2009 from 07:30 PM to 09:30 PM
Ama Dablam is one of the most recognizable mountains in the world. Its picture is featured in many calendars, books about Nepal and it's even a symbol of one of the major investment companies. At 6,812 metres (22,349 feet) it towers over the trekkers going to Everest Base Camp. It adds to the
mountain's allure that there is no real easy way to the summit -
the easiest route contains exposed 5.7+ sections above 19,000 ft and high angle
ice sections above 20,000 ft. The name means "Mother's Charm Box" referring
to the huge hanging glacier resembling charm box worn by elderly Sherpa
women.
In October of 2008 PCS member Julius Gawlas embarked on a five week long
trip that started in Kathmadu valley during one of the major Nepali
festivals of Durga Puja. Festivities were followed by a trek to Everest Base
Camp and summiting of one of Nepali trekking peaks: Lobuche East at 19,800
ft. Finally the group reached Ama Dablam base camp, settled in and made
summit bid despite difficult ice conditions.
Come to the meeting to learn about Nepali culture, trekking life, EBC and
high altitude climbing in maybe the most stunning mountains in the world.
Marcus Libkind, The Original Mugelhupf Movie, and The Lost People of Mountain Village
March 10, 2009 from 07:30 PM to 09:30 PM
Marcus Libkind, author of backcountry ski guidebooks and Chairman of Snowlands Network, will inspire you through images and commentary to explore new places on skis and snowshoes. He will also describe the advocacy work of Snowlands Network to protect opportunities for quiet winter recreation.
The evening will be capped with two wonderful films.
Ski Memories and The Original Mugelhupf Movie
This home movie begins in Switzerland in 1930 when Wolfgang Lert learned to ski on wooden skis with toe-irons and hazelnut poles. He and his friends would go on to explore the western US for places to ski including Yosemite. The second half of the movie is a ski chase that took place on the flanks of Mt. San Antonio near the Sierra Club’s San Antonio Ski Hut. It'll make you smile and laugh!
The Lost People of Mountain Village
Anthropologist Wade Davis calls it "no less than the most spectacular archaeological and anthropological discovery of our lifetimes." Dr. Jerrold Sapphire, author of "VANISHED: Why Bad Things Happen to Bad Civilizations," calls it… well, you’ll find out what he calls it. But when a lost backcountry skier high in the Rocky Mountains stumbles on a monumental complex of structures – apparently completely uninhabited – the only thing that experts agree on is that we may never know what really happened to "The Lost People of Mountain Village." This film is very serious! It’s also hilarious!
An Attempt on Mustagh Ata (7546m/24751 ft) in the Chinese Pamirs
February 10, 2009 from 07:00 PM to 09:00 PM
Translating to 'father of the ice mountains' in the Uighur language, the native tongue of the original inhabitants of the Xingjiang, Mustagh Ata is an enormous peak, 43rd in the world, that sits in the geological knot formed by the mountain ranges of the Pamir, the Tien-shan, the Kun Lun and the
Krakoram-HinduKush-Himalaya groups. It is in an extremely romantic region of the world, steeped in history, conflict and intrigue, lying as it does just off the Karakoram Highway and near the junctions of China with Tajikistan, Kyrgyztan and Kazakhstan and is also very close to the Silk Road city of Kashgar where the Russians and the British played the 'Great Game'.
PCS member, Arun Mahajan, lured by the wiles of the hourie wandered into this region. He never really summitted but thinks that he came away with a great story. However, the hourie remained, like what often happens to weary travelers of the Taklamakan, a mirage in his altitude addled brain.
Come and find out for yourself if all this is really true or a yarn worthy of Omar Khayyam, the Tentmaker!
A Tale of Two Trips - Emilie Cortes and the Volcanoes of Ecuador
January 13, 2009 from 07:00 PM to 09:00 PM
Emilie Cortes will compare and contrast two climbing expeditions to the high volcanoes of Ecuador. The first expedition in 2006 was guided by Alpine Ascents and the objectives were Cayambe (18.3k ft), Cotopaxi (19.3k ft), and Chimborazo (20.5k ft). After unsuccessful attempts on all three, Emilie returned in November 2008 with two friends to test a new acclimatization schedule and continue to explore Ecuador. Emilie will share spectacular photography of Ecuador's highest mountains and countryside as well as her lessons learned.
Annual Holiday Party
December 9, 2008 from 07:00 PM to 09:30 PM
Come one, come all to our annual holiday party where we indulge in a potluck dinner, view trip highlights, and generally have a rollicking good time. Family members & friends are welcome - if they dare to be seen with crazy climbers. Bring a dozen photos and some yummy food dish to share, as well as your own plate, utensils and cup. (Re-usable items will minimize waste.) We'll supply some basic drinks and paper towels, but that's it. If you'd like to bring a special beverage, please do so. Alcohol is OK. The cafeteria at Caliper has a small kitchen area with a couple of microwaves and a sink. Bring your digital pics on a USB flash drive or a CD-ROM. Old-fashioned slides will also be accommodated.
The Slideshows of Kilamanjaro - by Chris Franchuk
November 11, 2008 from 07:30 PM to 07:30 PM
At 19,341 feet Kilimanjaro is Africa’s highest mountain, yet it requires no technical climbing skills to reach the summit. Join Chris Franchuk in his 2006 ascent via the Marangu Route, from the jungle trailhead through moorland to the icy crater. We will also explore the wildlife found within Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti and Lake Manyara National Parks in Tanzania.
Corsica - A Slideshow by Stephane Mouradian
October 14, 2008 from 07:30 PM to 09:30 PM
The GR20 is a 200km trek well known in Europe. It traverses the island of Corsica along its North to South crest. The trail is rugged and it includes steep climbs, easy rock climbing, bolted ladders as well as wonderful mountain landscapes with the Mediterranean sea as a backdrop. Come and enjoy our best pictures and memories of our 11 days on the trail.
Fall Trip Planning Meeting
September 30, 2008 from 07:30 PM to 09:30 PM
Our Fall PCS trip-planning meeting (for trips through about Apr.) will be held tomorrow evening at Rod McCalley's house. There will be beverages, and some pizza, cookies, etc. All peak-climbers are welcome, including aspiring leaders & co-leaders. What are people interested in climbing over the cold season (and also into next year, too!)?
Maas Paine - A Slideshow about the Torres Del Paine by Kelly Maas
September 9, 2008 from 07:30 PM to 09:30 PM
Kelly Maas will present his trip to southern Chile's Torres Del Paine. Come and explore the temperate forests and granite peaks of the remote Chilean national park.
West of Whitney - 8 Peaks in 6 Days - Lisa Barboza
August 12, 2008 from 07:30 PM to 09:30 PM
The PCS Chair will provide details on routes and climbing in the Whitney region. Peaks climbed were McAdie, Irvine, Hitchcock, Joe Devel, Pickering, Guyot, Newcomb, and Chamberlain. A slide show, with narrative and maps will be shown.
Outdoor BBQ and Gear Swap - The Annual PCS Picnic
July 8, 2008 from 06:00 PM to 09:00 PM
The July meeting is our annual BBQ and gear exchange on July 8 at 6:00 at Wildwood Park BBQ area A. See http://tinyurl.com/6qpm4p.
Bring a dish to share, your own specialty, or choose according to first letter of your last name:
A-G Main course (think grilled items)
H-M Appetizer
N-S Veggie or Fruit side
T-Z Dessert
Bring your own beverage (alcohol is ok), $3, dinnerware, friends and family.
Bring the kids to climb on the play structures. BBQ should be hot by 6 pm for families on an early dinner schedule. Our reservation is 5–9 pm.
Bring whatever gear you find cluttering your garage or closet. Someone may want or need it. You can even charge something for it, but experience indicates that the lower the price the more likely for a sale. Free is best!
Climbing Orizaba - A Slide Show by Emilie Cortes
June 10, 2008 from 08:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Guess what! It's the 15th anniversary of the PCC being wholly owned by the Loma Prieta Chapter. So here's the deal: The LP has the Raptor Room (our hallowed and much beloved meeting place) from 6-8PM. They will have speakers, foodies, displays, etc. And you're all invited! Our regular meeting will begin at 8PM.
Climbers on OrizabaIn 2007, PCS member Emilie Cortes summited three of Mexico's volcanoes in just 8 days - the third highest mountain in North America - El Pico de Orizaba - at 18,850ft, Nevado de Toluca at 15,390ft, and La Malinche at 14,640ft. These mountains offer a convenient opportunity for the intermediate climber to gain high-altitude experience in North America. Climbing high peaks in Latin America is similar to the Alps where most summit bids are launched from huts (refugios) and the volcanoes are spread around the countryside of Mexico City offering exposure to rural Mexico and the hospitality of the locals. Emilie will share her picturesque photos as well as her learnings from the trip including tips on high altitude acclimatization and how to train to climb multiple peaks with little recovery time in between.
Climbing Mt. Elbrus - A Slide Show by Bill Tyler
May 13, 2008 from 07:30 PM to 09:30 PM
Join Bill Tyler on this trip to Europe's highest peak. Logistics, climbing details, and photographs will be shown.
Wind Rivers and Other High Places -- by Tim Hult
April 8, 2008 from 07:30 PM to 10:00 PM
A photographic journey into Wyoming's Wind River Range with Panoramas of other high places. Tim Hult will present a photo essay on last summer's climbing attempts in the Wind River Range. A presentation of panoramas and Natural abstracts from other high and wild places will also be shown (Grand Canyon, Sierra Nevada, New York City!)
Some Mountain Climbing in the Indian Himalaya -- by Arun Mahajan
March 11, 2008 from 07:30 PM to 10:00 PM
In the Fall of 2007, an expedition from the UK spent between three to four weeks, climbing and exploring in a small section of the Indian Himalaya that is in the Lahul-Spiti district of the state of Himachal Pradesh. In the process, the splendid pyramidal peak of Gangsthang (6162m) was climbed and 6 members stood on the tiny summit, having made a new route up the West Face, finishing up the normal SW Ridge. Prior to this, for acclimatization, the subsidiary rock peak of Thirot Shivling (5324m) was also reached. The team also enjoyed a superb journey into the area, taking the night sleeper from Delhi, the amazing narrow gauge railway to Shimla hill station, beautiful roads through the verdant valleys of Kullu and Manali, and a breath-taking drive over ther 13,000 foot Rohtang Pass into the spectacular Chandra-Bhaga valley. Come and enjoy a slide show of this expedition as described by PCS member, Arun Mahajan, who was a team member in this expedition and lucky enough to summit both Gangsthang and the Thirot Shivling.
Everest 2007 -- by Bill Tyler
February 12, 2008 from 07:00 PM to 10:00 PM
In the spring of 2007, Bay Area mountaineer Bill Tyler set out from Lhasa, Tibet with other members of the 7 Summits Club Everest Expedition to make his second attempt to climb the world's highest peak. Join Bill for slides and a summit video of his successful six-week climb of the North Ridge route on Everest. Learn what it takes to make an Everest dream a reality as Bill discusses gear, skills, physical and mental training, and how to best cope with the hazards of high altitude and inclement weather.
Mountaineering in Scotland - A slide show by Mike and Andrea Snadden
January 8, 2008 from 07:00 PM to 07:00 PM
Mike and Andrea Snadden provide an overview of their climbing experiences in Scotland.
Christmas Party - hosted by Stephane Mouradian
December 11, 2007 from 07:00 PM to 10:00 PM
The December meeting is our annual Christmas Party where we ignore the usual formalities of meetings and indulge in a potluck dinner and other wild, devil may care antics. Once again Stephane Mouradian has reserved the cafeteria at Caliper Life Sciences for our annual holiday potluck party. Thanks Stephane! The preferred list of food by alphabetical order has been eliminated, no one went by it anyway! This is a marvelous opportunity for all you crazy climbers to bring your spouses, significant others, kids and pets to meet your friends, get down to some heavy duty eating, watch some trip highlights, and hopefully have a few laughs at each other’s expense. Bring a dozen pictures and some yummy food to share. Bring your own (preferably re-usable) plate, utensils and cup, including serving utensils for your potluck dish. You can also bring your favorite beverage - alcahol is OK. The only things that will be supplied are some basic drinks and paper towels - so come prepared. The cafeteria has a small kitchen area with a couple of microwave ovens and a sink. Digital photos can be brought on a USB flash drive or CD-ROM. Old-fashioned slides will also be accommodated. Directions: Parking and access to the Caliper cafeteria is on the south side of the building.
| Location: | Caliper Life Sciences 605 Fairchild Drive Mountain View, CA 94043> |
| Directions: | From San Jose (Northbound Highway 101): Take the Ellis Street Exit and turn left going back under the freeway. Turn left on Fairchild Drive (first exit after freeway on-ramp). Go approximately .25 miles to the Caliper building on the right. From San Francisco (Southbound Highway 101): Take Ellis Street exit and turn right onto Ellis Street. Take the first left (100 ft) on Fairchild Drive. Go .25 miles to the Caliper building on the right. |
Monthly Meeting - Slide Show to be Determined
November 13, 2007 from 07:30 PM to 09:30 PM
A great program to be announced soon...
Canyoneering the North Fork of the Kaweah River -- by Toinette Hartshorne
October 9, 2007 from 07:30 PM to 10:00 PM
This past summer, Jef Levin and company completed the first descent of the North Fork of the Kaweah River. Several weekends were spent scouting and rigging the technical sections in the beautiful granite canyons carved by this river. This slide show will cover highlights from 3 weekends spent on the river.
New Zealand -- by Kelly Maas
September 11, 2007 from 07:30 PM to 09:00 PM
I finally fufilled a longstanding goal earlier this year by visiting New Zealand. Though marginal weather meant that I did little climbing, we still had the opportunity to see and explore a wonderful country. Highlights included sea kayaking, canyoning, glacier scrambling, climbing in near-winter conditions, and hiking the Milford Track. Good News – we are having a Shopping Party at the Sports Basement before September’s regular monthly meeting. That means free beer, snacks and a 20% discount on anything in the store. The party will be on Tuesday September 11th from 6 – 7:30 p.m. and will be immediately followed by our monthly meeting, from 7:30 – 9:00 p.m. To participate just come and identify yourself as a PCS member when you enter the store. If you haven't been to the Sports Basement before, they have just about everything you need for hiking, biking, running, snowboarding, camping...
