Dave Bingham becomes the second Club member this year to reach the summit of Island Peak, Nepal (6183m). Today he’s gone on to reach the harder summit of Labouche East (6119m) as well.
At PD+ (Alpine grade), Labouche East is among the more technical of the Khumbu region ‘trekking’ peaks. It’s a tough six hour ascent from the high camp at the base of the South East Ridge (5265m). Difficult slabs from the start and then endless fixed ropes lead to the summit ridge. Multiple abseils requiring the usual care are necessary to get down again.
Dave, who already has ascents of seven peaks higher than 5600m to his name, including Mera Peak (6476m), Spantik (7027m), Pik Evgenia (7105m) and Cho Oyu (8201m), said it’s “one of the hardest ascents I’ve ever done and everyone is very tired. ”
Dave and the rest of his group are all safe in the valley leading to the Cho La pass. Once crossed, easier trekking remains. “The mountaineering is over but the Gokyo valley will give lovely views if the weather is kind.”