Day 9: Lobuche

Hiking time: 4-5 hours

Above Pheriche, the character of the terrain changes, and we’ll begin to understand the starkness of the high alpine landscape. Our path climbs the terminal moraine of the Khumbu glacier and continues to the settlement of Lobuche (16,174 ft./4,929 m), where we’ll spend one night. This trail passes through a famous memorial that honors the many Sherpa who lost their lives in the high mountains. Lobuche is located on the flank of an old lateral moraine of the Khumbu glacier.

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We are safe and happy out here in the town of Dingboche at about 14,500’. Thanks to everyone who reached out to make sure we were okay! Our original plan was to be here for 2 nights before moving on towards base camp but the snow made the trail impassable. Our guides are the best and have made sure we’re comfortable and confident in the plans as we’ve had to be flexible. I’m so thankful to our guests for their patience and willingness to see the adventure and unique aspects of the experience we’re having together.

We woke up to bluebird clear skies over the valley and hiked up to about 15,500’ to get even better views of the surrounding mountains. It was incredible. When we got back to town we hung out at the local bakery and had artisan coffee and the best apple pie we’ve ever eaten. We then spent the rest of the afternoon taking naps, playing cards and hanging out together. It’s a bummer to not get to follow through with the original plan but it has also allowed us to get to know more trekkers and the locals that work at and run this tea house.

Our plan for tomorrow is to take a helicopter up to base camp to get pictures and see Everest up close before flying down to Kathmandu a day earlier than scheduled. It should be an epic way to wrap up our time in the Khumbu Valley! We’re thankful we’re safe and we’re thankful for our new friendships.

Our team is the best there is and we’re so fortunate for how this all shook out for us as it’s felt like the best possible situation for the circumstances. Thanks for following along with our trek!

-Nate Zuercher (Trip Host)