Day 10: Ghorekshep / Base Camp

Hiking time: 4-5 hours

The trail winds through the high tundra and glacial moraine to Ghorekshep (16,924 ft./5,158 m), the last inhabited area before Everest Base Camp. Ghorekshep presents a rougher environment and gives the trekker the true flavor of the rigors of mountaineering. While at Ghorekshep, depending on weather conditions, we make an ascent of Kala Pattar (18,300 ft./5,577 m) This is a small peak with excellent views of Everest, Nuptse and nearby Pumori and will be the highpoint of acclimatization. Many well- known Everest photos are taken from the summit of Kala Pattar. Base camp lies beneath the sweeping ridges of Everest and Nuptse.

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Lobuche to Gorak Shep, EBC and Back – A Day to Remember

Perfect weather greeted us as we set out from Lobuche, the air crisp and the mountains glowing in morning light. The trail to Gorak Shep wound through rock and ice, with the crunch of crampons and the chatter of trekkers filling the stillness. We paused for lunch, energized and a bit anxious — the long-awaited final push to Everest Base Camp lay ahead.

The trail from Gorak Shep to EBC was classic type 2 fun — hard, relentless, but deeply rewarding. The terrain was rough and uneven, weaving through ice, glacial moraine, and an ever-shifting landscape of sticks marking the way. Along the way, a Tibetan Snow Cock darted across the rocks — a small reminder that life thrives even in this stark, magnificent place.

As the altitude and fatigue took hold, the childhood words of The Little Engine That Could became my quiet mantra:

“I think I can, I think I can…” — step after step, breath after breath.

There was laughter that dulled the pain, as it always does, and plenty of potty humor, proving that some things truly stand the test of time. Amid the exhaustion, something deeper stirred — this place is spiritual; you can feel it.

Upon arriving at Everest Base Camp, I heard George humming “Whiskey for My Men, Beer for My Horses,” and somehow, it was the perfect soundtrack to the moment — equal parts triumph, grit, and joy. It may have been the wind, but I was misty standing there, surrounded by the Khumbu Icefall and the quiet power of this place. The love and support of family and friends had carried me more than they’ll ever know.

Our Sherpa team — Man, Shiva, Lalit, and SNT — were simply outstanding. Lalit’s support and his legendary goodie bag kept me going when my legs were done. Nate has been the consummate host — I fully expect an invite when he’s nominated for a Grammy. And Donny, thank you for organizing this journey; you’re a great leader.

I can’t imagine a better group of brothers, old and new, to share this incredible experience with.

-Mike Alford