by Lindsey Gulbrandsen, State University of New York at Oneonta
On July 12th I arrived at Camp 10 along with thirteen others after an unforgettably cold and wet two-day traverse. After a brief recovery period, we all quickly adjusted to life at C10. Unfortunately, we brought the wet and windy Camp 17 weather with us. While we waited for the other trail parties and our science equipment to arrive, we filled our time with laundry, lectures and cribbage. By the fourth day in camp with no other trail party arrivals we had gotten more creative with our ways to occupy time. After a brief think tank session on nunatak hot tub logistics we were ready to begin construction. We carefully chose a location below the water supply for the tub. The crew spent several hours moving rocks to build up the tub walls, and then attempted to channelize the melt water along garbage bags and tarps. To maximize comfort in the hot tub, we lined the rock walls with moss and installed several rock slab seats beneath the tarp. After a few hours of construction, we sat back and relaxed in the tub while it filled.
Admiring our work. Photo by Emily Stevenson
All that the tub was missing was a swim up bar, some jets and maybe some clean hot water. It was an amazing day with great people and great views.
Enjoying the views. From left: Zach, Luc, Lindsey, and Laurissa. Photo by Emily Stevenson
After spending 7+ hours sunbathing in our mud puddle we hiked down the rocks to greet the incoming trail party. Being reunited was the perfect end to another great day out on the icefield.
Photo by Saskia Gindraux