My name is Isaac Swanson, I grew up hearing stories of Alaska from my Aunt who lived in the state for over 25 years. When she would share stories and pictures of Alaska I dreamed of one day visiting. In 2018 I was in a position to make my dreams come true and move to Alaska with my aunt's help. From the very beginning I knew I had found a place to call home. I threw myself into hiking, running, and climbing in the bush. Once my eyes saw Denali, the tallest mountain in North America I knew I wanted to climb it. Denali translates to 'The High One' in the native Athabascan language and for good reason.

The peak is 20,310 feet above sea level. Up to 1,000 climbers from around the world attempt the climb yearly. With approximately 1,000 permits granted every year, only 55% of climbers reach the summit. The cost to attempt to summit is upwards of $10,000. The cost and the odds could not deter me. I set my sights on the 'High One'. I organized and set up a climb in 2020 but due to Covid my trip was canceled. I was crushed. Though we Alaskans only see the mountain 30% of most days, I would dream of standing on the summit.

Since first signing up to climb Denali my life has changed for the better. I have dedicated myself to school and the pursuit of an education and a career path of helping people. I was recently presented with the opportunity to once again climb Denali. I jumped at the opportunity to fulfill my dream. My goal is to ascend Denali via the West Buttress beginning on May 21, 2021. The journey starts in Talkeetna, Alaska with an hour flight to base camp. I have allowed three weeks to acclimatize to the altitude and allow for a weather window and a summit push. My West Buttress expedition ascent is pictured below. 

Once on the summit, my goal is to ski the Messner Couloir to reach base camp. More than 90% people climb down Denali whereas about 10% ski down to base camp. I will be in the latter group. I thrive on a challenge and will be hiking to the summit carrying my skis so that I can then ski to the 7,000 foot base camp.  The Messner Couloir is the most sought after ski line on Denali  and one of North America's most classic ski descents, including nearly 2,000m of skiing. 
The average trip to attempt a summit on Denali averages around $10,000. I am starting this GoFundMe to assist in raising money for my core expenses, such as:
- Glacier flight round trip to and from base camp with Talkeetna Air Taxi
- NPS Climbing Permit 
- Food for up to 21 days 
- Last minute gear purchases 
- Lodging in Talkeetna before and after the trip
- Camera to document the trip

Please join my journey and follow my instagram: @isaacswanson_ak.  Even small donations will make you a big part of my adventure. 

- Isaac