Leaving for Gokyo: A Day of Sunny Adventures

Once again, we were greeted by the warm embrace of the sun as we opened our eyes, signaling the start of another thrilling day in the Himalayas. We kicked off our day with a hearty breakfast accompanied by the soothing sips of milk tea. However, today was no ordinary day; today was the day we embarked on our journey to Gokyo, and excitement was in the air!

Trail Signs and Lake Views: A Scenic Celebration

As we hit the trail, we couldn't help but notice the signs that marked the path to Gokyo, and a sense of jubilation washed over us. The anticipation built with each step, and when we caught sight of the first lake, we couldn't resist stopping to soak in the breathtaking scenery. With ice-capped peaks in the backdrop, the landscape looked surreal, like something out of a dream. The second lake further fueled our excitement, but it was the third lake that signaled our official arrival – Gokyo, we had arrived!

Gokyo and its MSU Connection

Our arrival in Gokyo was more than just a destination; it was a connection to our very own Montana State University. Gokyo holds a special place in the heart of MSU, with Mary Hubbard from our institution playing a pivotal role in a study here, supported by none other than National Geographic. This study delves deep into the fascinating history preserved in the mud of the Gokyo valley.

"The history is in the mud" - A National Geographic resource showcasing MSU's involvement in the Gokyo valley. Watch here: [History in the Mud]

Acclimatization Hike: A Glacier Surprise

Following our tea and lunch break, it was time to acclimatize – hike high and sleep low, they say. Little did we know that this hike would hold a delightful surprise – a glacier! (For those seeking a quick glacier knowledge refresher, a glacier is a slow-moving, massive river of ice formed from the accumulation and compaction of snow over thousands of years.)

The glacier stretched as far as the eye could see, a stark reminder of the ever-changing landscape. It was mind-boggling to realize that the very spot where we stood was once part of this immense ice flow. We snapped some incredible photos, celebrated our discovery, and began our descent as mist began to shroud the glacier and lake.

Dinner, Games, and National Geographic Dreams

Back at our cozy abode, some of our fellow trekkers introduced us to an array of entertaining games, from euchre to taco cat goat cheese pizza and Snurts. Others found solace in reading or unleashing their creative side through painting. As the day gave way to night, we had the privilege of listening to John share insights on how to join the National Geographic Fellowship, recounting his own adventure to Svalbard Island.

With departure time set at a brisk 4 AM, we all retired early, eagerly anticipating the next day's adventure. Our early departure had a clear mission – to catch a glimpse of the mighty Everest. Stay tuned for more thrilling tales from our Himalayan escapade!