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AUGUST 2018: VARIOUS VIA FERRATA CLIMBS SWITZERLAND

This year, I decided to return to my favorite stomping ground Switzerland to attempt various via ferrata climbs to celebrate my 70th year! I avoided alpine climbs this year as I haven’t been lucky with the weather in the past visits!

My first port of call was Zermatt (1600m) to acclimatize. Planned to undertake the OberRothorn hike but unfortunately the cablecar was out of service. Thence undertook the mountain hike to the HornliHutte, the start of the Matterhorn climb. The hike took about 3 hours and I found it tiring and once again I was hyperventilating and my heart was pounding due to the exertion and altitude!

Then undertook four via ferrata climbs in Valais:

1. Zermatt Schweifinen Via Ferrata located on the hills and cliffs overlooking Zermatt. Undertook the “Route B” VF climb which was rated as KS3-4 medium/difficult. Most challenging section was the vertical walls and overhangs.

2. Belvedere Via Ferrata located on cliffs near Nax. Rated as KS3 medium. Involved about 220m ascent on sheer walls at altitude of 1000m! Took about 1.5 hours to summit and included 2 wobbly Monkey bridges, with 2 cables for the hands and one cable for the feet!

3. Eggishorn (2562m) Via Ferrata located in Fiersch was the highlight of the trip. Not an overly difficult climb rated as KS3 medium but very picturesque scenery and sub peaks on the VF. Took about 3 hours and included a Nepalese and a monkey bridge. I was able to attach myself to a family with Hans and Olga leading the way. The summit of the VF was 2562m. However, the true summit of Mt Eggishorn (2927m) was a 20 minutes hike from the VF summit! So ended up reaching the true summit the following day. I was able to get a photo with a dog! Rewarded with magnificent views of the 23Km long UNESCO World Heritage Aletsch Glacier. Looks like a highway!

4. Mt Mittaghorn (3143m) Via Ferrata, located in Saas Fee. This was my final climb and as I had done this climb previously in 2015 with Alexandra, an experienced climber from Cologne, I was thinking that it would be a piece of cake! So reached the summit in about 4.5 hours. No real problems but felt sluggish! Then setoff for the descent via a steep mountain trail expecting to reach Saas Fee in 3- 4 hours. The descent path was waymarked with white/blue/white signs but after couple of hours, the signs disappeared. I felt disorientated and needed to confirm that I was still on the correct path. I did not want to run the risk of spending the night on the mountain should in fact I be lost! So contacted Mountain Rescue to seek advice of my location. However unable to confirm my location coordinates, so the Rescue Service sent a rescue helicopter to look for me! So eventually, the helicopter located me at 2800m altitude, giving me some cause for relief! . The mountain guide was lowered from the helicopter to perform the rescue. Once connected to a safety harness, we were winched mid air towards the helicopter! It felt weird dangling mid air off a helicopter via a metal cable at 2800m! Just avoided looking down! Eventually transferred to within the helicopter at an intermediate location before reaching Saas Fee. On mountains, always expect the unexpected!

Really enjoyed my stays in Zermatt, Fiersch and Saas Fee and enjoyed the wonderful views of the mountains and glaciers. Glad to see the glaciers before they recede further. Some tarpaulins already used on some glaciers to limit the recession!

After the adventure in the alps, I spent a most enjoyable time with my sister and her family in Zurich.

Summit of Mt Eggishorn 2927m with canine mountaineer

Aletsch Glacier from Eggishorn

Another view of Aletsch Glacier

Nepalese bridge on Eggishorn VF

Monkey Bridge on Eggishorn VF

On sub peak of Eggishorn VF

Climbing wall on Eggishorn VF

Misty on Eggishorn VF

Wedding horns on Eggishorn

Ascent on Mt Mittaghorn VF

Summit cross in distance on Mt Mittaghorn

Climbers summitting Mt Mittaghorn in distance

View from Zermatt Via Ferrata on the village

Goats herded through Zermatt by young shepherds

Dog v goat at Hannig

Views of the Matterhorn on the HornliHutte trail

Views of Matterhorn from Blauherd

Dirty glacier at Langfluh

MAY, 2016: MACHU PICCHU (2430M), PERU AND MACHU PICCHU MOUNTAIN (3082M)

This year, we decided to pay a short notice visit to our son and daughter-in-law in New York. It had to be May to avoid the stifling summer in NY! But we also decided to visit one of our bucket list items, one of the new 7 wonders of the world, viz Machu Picchu in Peru. Consequently, no plans for alpine mountaineering and via ferrata this year!

Booking a holiday at short notice in Peru can be difficult. The Government limits the numbers of visitors to Machu Picchu and enforces permits on hikers on the Inca trail and mountain trails to the old and new mountain summits to assist conservation of the archaeological sites. So we were only able to reserve permits for two days on the Inca trail and for the Machu Picchu mountain climb (3082M). The more popular 4 day Inca Trail trek and the Wayna Picchu mountain climb (The Climb of Death) were fully booked many months previously!

Sacred Valley of the Incas

We spent the first day of our tour in Cusco at the high altitude of 3300M. The hotel did not have any lifts so we both felt the exertion required just to climb the 4 floors. Leila got a headache and not much sleep that night but fortunately we were heading for lower altitude the next day. We embarked on a guided excursion through mountain ranges to the legendary Sacred Valley of the Incas. We visited incredible well preserved archaeological Inca sites at Pisaq, Urubamba and thence to the Fortress of Ollantaytambo. The terraces were so well preserved! The guide advised these sites were in superb condition as the Spanish Conquistadors did not reach these areas.

Machu Picchu (2430M)

The following day, we took a pleasant train ride to Km 104, the starting point of our hike along the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. We were met by our guide who got us through the checkpoint. She advised us that we had a 12Km hike and an ascent of 500M ahead of us to get to Machu Picchu and that the last bus to Aguas Calientes was at 5pm! So started our hike at 11am with rather heavy backpacks as we were carrying lunch and water for the day. Along the way we see well preserved archaeological sites at Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna.

After hiking about 4 and 3/4hours, we reach this last set of very steep stairs approx. 25 metres. The guides were advising hikers to scramble up the steps. At the top, we enter the Sungate of Machu Picchu! What a beautiful site! There below us was this extraordinary and breathtaking sight of Machu Picchu Citadel! Our bucket list item was there in front of us! Stopped to take pictures and to enjoy the moment! Eventually our guide reminded that another hours hike was required to catch the bus! We descended the Sungate path and enjoyed some cursory views of Machu Picchu as we were returning the next day for a more detailed tour of Machu Picchu.

The following day, we queued with hundreds of other tourists to catch the bus from Aguas Calientes to the Machu Picchu Citadel. Our guide gave us a detailed tour and explanation of the MP Citadel. How the ancient Incas were able to use their engineering and construction skills to build such a massive edifice as well as incorporate their knowledge of astronomy and cosmology was incredible. The sun dial indication of the winter and summer solstices was absolutely mind boggling! And to think that 750 souls lived and worked at Machu Picchu at its peak during the 15th century!

Machu Picchu Mountain (3082M)

Following our tour of the MP Citadel, we bade farewell to our guide and set our sights on the climb of the Machu Picchu Old Mountain, an ascent of 652M to an elevation of 3082M. The climb was non technical and was a continuous climb on ancient Incan steps. It was really hot and after having completed about a quarter of the way up, Leila decided to abandon the climb and return to the Citadel. So I would continue by myself. Along the way, I was tempted to turn back as it was so hot but received words of encouragement from other hikers such as “Take it one step at a time” or “You can do it, you’ll get there!” I had to ignore the many younger hikers who were literally sprinting up and down the mountain! On the way up, I noticed this group of French spiritual practitioners in lotus position deep in meditation. Approaching the summit the steps became steeper and more exposed. So my slow ascent took 2 hours which wasn’t a bad time. Enjoyed the views of MP from the summit. Absolutely breathtaking! I was able to complete the descent in an hour, so that my overall ascent/descent time was 3 hours , the quoted time for the hike!

Bus Ride to Cusco

After the MP tour, we spent an additional day relaxing in Aguas Calientes. We visited the Site Museum and learnt more on the history of Machu Picchu, and sighted a few of Hiram Bingham’s original MP photos. We took a train to Ollantaytambo and then a bus transfer back to Cusco.

The bus was full as we pulled away from Ollantaytambo (2700M) and headed to Cusco (3300M) on a mountain road. About half way, one of the Spanish speaking tourists in a front seat started to shout at the driver, who pulled up the bus. We didn’t know what was going on until we saw the woman indicate the driver was nodding off! Eventually, the bus set off again after the break. We were sitting directly behind the driver! This time, we saw the driver drop his head. We were starting to feel worried! Leila was encouraging other passengers to sing and clap to keep the driver awake! Again the bus stopped and a few passengers alighted from the bus! Some passengers gave the driver a dose of expletives! One passenger who had abandoned his Inca Trail hike mused that he had curtailed his trek on health grounds was now at risk of becoming a road statistic! After several phone calls, they managed to exchange drivers with a following bus, and we arrived safely in Cusco!

Cusco

We spent an additional 4 days in Cusco and did not have to work hard to keep ourselves busy! There was so much to do! We visited many of the gems of Cusco including: - Many cathedrals and churches such as La Cathedral, Convento St Domingo, Church St Blas, Estacion San Pedro. There were fine examples of Spanish religious architecture many of which had been built on top of the Incan ruins!

-A few of the churches included interesting museums such as the Museo Koricancha. Also loved the Inca museo.

- Whilst we were there we also enjoyed the festivities of the Corpus Christi festival parade with its brass bands, young men struggling with very heavy effigies of Christ and all mixed with local Peruvian customs. Although a Christian festival one could but notice the Peruvian/Incan influence of the former ritual sacrifices of Llamas.

- And of course, there is the shopping that one can do in Cusco in markets and shops everywhere. Coupled with the great food! We were able to get a 3 course meal in many restaurants for $10USD!

Regards Brian and Leila

Machu Picchu in background behind us from the Sungate

Steep steps to the Sun gate

In front of Machu Picchu 15 minutes descent from the Sun Gate

In front of Machu Picchu Citadel

Km 104 Start of the hike on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Winaywayna archeological site on Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu

Terraces leading to Guard House on Machu Picchu

Leila accepting energy from the Intihuatana astronomical structure at MP

Main temple at Machu Picchu

Incan earthquake proof architecture!

In front of Huayna Picchu, the young mountain!

Posing in front of the Sacred Rock a la Hiram Bingham

The terraces and steps leading to the Machu Picchu mountain (3082M)

On the trail up to the Machu Picchu mountain summit, never ending steps!

On the summit of MP Mountain 3082M after ascent of 652M

Looking down on MP Citadel from the summit of the old mountain (3082M)

Corpus Christi parade in Plaza de Armas, Cusco

Effigy of Christ being carried to the Cathedral at Corpus Christi

Photo with a youth clown group at Corpus Christi

Leila with llama and locals at Corpus Christi

Leila with “Spanish Conquistadors” at Cusco airport after Corpus Christi.

Distinctive hat and plaits worn by Peruvian women

Locals having a siesta at Aguas Calientes

Leila with some colorful locals and a baby llama!

Terraces at Ollantaytambo

Dangerous weapons and objects confiscated at Cusco airport

VIDEO OF THE MACHU PICCHU MOUNTAIN CLIMB (3082M)

Hit here to go to video

#brianchung mountain climbing machu picchu

AUGUST 2015: MITTAGHORN 3143M, RIGIDALSTOCK 2592M AND ZERMATT MAMMUT VIA FERRATA CLIMBS, SWITZERLAND.

This summer, I was planning a couple of 4000m alpine summit attempts in the Pennine alps plus some via ferrata climbs. I had scheduled 5 days in Zermatt, 5 days in Saas Fee and 4 days in Engelberg. My unfinished business in the Swiss Alps included Castor, Alphubel and Jagihorn! I felt very enthusiastic and fit having trained hard in Sydney with hiking and gym work. And was even motivated by listening to the Sound of Music “Climb Every Mountain” on the flight from Australia! However, the weather didn’t play ball, and consequently, my alpine climbing plans were severely restricted!

Started my acclimatisation with a hike on Mt Oberrothorn (3415M). Legs felt very weary and I was hyperventilating and heart was pounding! That's the impact of altitude! The hike took less than 3 hours return from Rothorn and gave beautiful views of the Matterhorn. Had strapped the Gopro camera to my lapel and thus began the appearance of “The Shadow”! On the next day, I continued the acclimatisation, by hiking on the picturesque mountain trail from Schwarzee to the Hornli Hutte (3260M), the base camp for Matterhorn climbers. Saw this guy struggle up the mountain trail with his dog, an Irish setter. Perhaps the Swiss believe that they and their pets have innate skills to climb mountains!

The weather in Zermatt was getting worse, raining and overcast! So unfortunately, I was rained out before I could get any alpine climbing done from Zermatt. I did manage to do a climb on the Mammut Sports Via Ferrata on one overcast but dry morning. I had to climb the VF twice as I had dropped my jacket somewhere during first circuit! The climb wasn’t too difficult, with one section of vertical wall and overhangs.

Moved to Saas Fee and the weather was marginally better. Had my first taste this trip of mountain climbing on the rocky Mt Mittaghorn (3143M) using via ferrata. It was overcast. As it happened spoke to this woman in the cable car and asked her if she was climbing and if she knew the way to the via ferrata? Affirmative! That gave me a lot of encouragement and I told her I would follow her seeing I got lost looking for the same mountain last year!

We completed the climb and return in 5 hours. It turns out that my 'guide' whose name was Alexandra came from Cologne Germany and is an experienced mountaineer, having climbed many 4000M peaks in the alps incl the Matterhorn and the Eiger! She was acclimatising for a big climb in next few days! And to cap off the day, she was very surprised to hear that I was retired when enquiring of my profession! A great days climbing in the company of Alexandra! The VF climb was rated moderately hard (KS3) and included a vertical wall section.

Made preparations to attempt the more difficult Mt Jagihorn VF climb (3206M) but again the weather was forecast overcast with snow. Hiked from Kreuzboden to the start of the climb and noted that there was snow covering the descent path and some sections of the cables. So abandoned summit attempt as too risky to climb!

The Saas Fee mountain guides were unable to arrange the Alphubel alpine climb as the cable car for descent not working, and other alpine climbs not available due to weather! So still unable to attempt a 4000M alpine climb and left Saas Fee for the pretty village of Engelberg.

Weather in Engelberg was fine so was able to do a solo VF climb on Mt Rigidalstock at 2592M on the Saturday. The climb was well signposted and waymarked and there were many climbers, so was able to find my way climbing solo. Rigidalstock provided a lovely climbing route to the summit cross. Climb was rated moderately hard (KS3) with one section of vertical wall. Overall the climb and descent took over 5 hours to complete, and offered many opportunities to scramble on the rocks without need to hang onto the cables. An enjoyable days climbing in great sunshine. I did notice that the other climbers seemed to be decked out in designer label mountain wear with soft shell and brilliant colours! My more sombre colours were unable to compete from a fashion point of view!

I was planning a more difficult VF climb on the Graustock (2662M) on my last full day in Engelberg but same story, I had to abandon climb due to forecast thunderstorms. So my total climbs completed for the trip were 3 Via Ferrata climbs but did complete many shorter hikes. The weather was one factor that one cannot control and impeded any 4000M alpine climb attempts.

Following the climbing trip, I visited my sister and her family in Zurich. Thence, joined my wife on a fantastic Intrepid tour of Turkey.

On the summit of Mt Mittaghorn 3143M

Alexandra, from Cologne my climb buddy for the day on summit of Mittaghorn 3143M

Alexandra leading the way towards summit of Mittaghorn.

A selfie with the Mittaghorn summit cross over left shoulder in the clouds.

On the summit of Mt Rigidalstock 2592M

Approaching summit cross Mt Rigidalstock

Summit Cross of Rigidalstock in the distance to right

Vertical wall section of via ferrata on Rigidalstock

Long cable on Rigidalstock Via Ferrata

Relaxing on Mammut Via Ferrata Zermatt

Section of vertical wall on the Zermat Mammut Via Ferrata

“The Shadow” hiking up Mt Oberrothorn trail (3415M) towards Matterhorn.

Fixed ropes on the Oberrothorn mountain trail. But it helps to be surefooted!

Views of Matterhorn on the Hornli Hutte trail

Swiss dog (Irish Setter) climbing the Hornli Hutte trail.

Snow covering the descent route from Mt Jagihorn 3206M Via Ferrata! Too risky to climb!

Views from Hohsass of Weissmies mountain (4023M) climbed in 2011

Shepherds herding goats through Zermatt.

All dogs appear to be well groomed and well behaved in Switzerland!

Unsociable and apparently sulking donkeys in Saas Fee.

Titlis (3238M) Engelberg’s most popular tourist attraction but not considered a serious climbing peak.

Blue Mosque Istanbul, Turkey

Hot air balloons Cappadocia, Turkey

VIDEO CLIP - CLICK LINK HERE

Video that I took of Rigidalstock VF Climb using Gopro Hero3

#brian chung #mountaineering #harnessblueadventures

JULY 2014: ALLALINHORN (4027M) CLIMB, EIGER ROTSTOCK VF CLIMB, SWISS ALPS, SWITZERLAND

This year, I planned to do some mountains climbs in the Bernese Alps and Pennine alps in Switzerland. However, the weather was very fickle this year and I managed to climb only the Allalinhorn (4027M) in the Saastal region and the Eiger-Rotstock (2663M) via ferrata in the Bernese Alps before being closed down by the bad weather.

My first port of call was the beautiful mountain village of Saas Fee, altitude 1800M. Like Zermatt, electric vehicles are allowed only within the village precinct and all motorists are required to park outside the village.

To aid in acclimatisation and recovery from my jet lag, I wanted to undertake the Mittaghorn via ferrata. But getting there didn't turn out to be very simple. I had to take the Felskinn cable car and then have them specially drop me off at the half way station of Moriena. Then had to hike up the ski slopes to look for the start point of the via ferrata. Feeling all alone without a soul in sight, I then encountered snow which blocked access. So I ended up abandoning the VF climb, and hiked a couple of hours back down to Saas Fee via the picturesque mountain track..

Eventually, some nice weather arrived, and I and many other climbers took the first Metro Alpin train to make a summit attempt of the Allalinhorn mountain at 4027M. I met the other climbing team members and our local Swiss guide Dominik. I was the only climber who couldn't speak German. Unlike previous years, our team of four were all mature age climbers! We set off on our climb - I was given the position of last on the belay rope. Some steady uphill hiking took us to the start of the steep climbing section, all manageable so far! Given the numbers of climbers, we had to wait our turn to start the zig zag sections of the climb. After achieving over 500M elevation gain, we reached the sub peak and waited our turn to cross to the summit. The peak was reached via a summit ridge of about half meter wide for some 50 metres long. Not too scary? We congratulated everyone and took photos and quickly left for the subpeak and a snack. The panorama from the peak was magnificent, all aided by beautiful blue skies and the lack of clouds! The Allalinhorn is one of the most photogenic of the snow capped peaks in Switzerland!

I then lead the descent down from the Allalinhorn with bowed legs as advised by our guide Dominik! It wasn't too difficult but one of climbers had cramps, so we slowed down. We eventually reached the starting point, so the total time for the ascent and descent was over 5 hours. A drink at the bar was most welcomed. And our guide, Dominik also invited everyone to a concert occurring that evening that he was participating in as a yodeler!

My second port of call in Switzerland was Grindelward where I was planning an attempt on the Monch (4107M). Unfortunately, the weather wasn't good and I didn't get to climb another 4000M peak this trip.

I did get to climb the Eiger - Rotstock via ferrata on the west flank of the Eiger North Face when weather was satisfactory during a morning window. I took the train to the Eigergletscher station (2320M) and hiked on the Eiger trail and turned right at the Eiger signpost to the start of the VF. After donning VF equipment, I had to scramble on rocks to reach the start of the VF and the 6 ladders. Then had to scramble on protected and unprotected sections of layered rock until I sighted the former opening of the Rotstock train station now long decommissioned. Eventually reached the sub peak saddle, then scrambled to get to the Rotstock peak and Cross. I was also joined by 3 other climbers some 10 minutes later. Took photos of the peak and of the Eiger west flank. Amazed at the proximity of the Eiger north face west flank!

Advised by the other climbers on the best route for the descent. It involved descent on scree, snow and some downclimbing on fixed ropes to the Eigergletscher station. Sounded more dangerous than the ascent! But I was able to manage the descent and just followed the blue/white markers. In all, the total ascent and descent from/to the station took under 5 hours. Overall, the VF wasn't very difficult but the location on the Eiger north face and its historical setting made it a very interesting climb!

The weather became fine on my last day in Grinelward and I wanted to see the Jungfraujoch before going to Zurich to visit my sister and family. It is a very impressive achievement and has undergone incredible redevelopment since I last saw it some 40 years ago!

Hiking to base of Allalinhorn mountain

Guide Dominik heading to start of climb

Team heading to start of climb

Other climbing teams heading up

Waiting our turn to start the zig zag climb

Summit Cross in sight

Team summits Allalinhorn 4027M

Team summits Allalinhorn

Crossing summit ridge back to minor peak

Lunch on minor peak

Distant views of Pollux climbed 2 years ago from summit.

Danger of crevasses

Eiger North Face Climb and Rotstock VF Climb. Source: Summitpost.org

Start of Rotstock VF climb from Eigergletscher station

Sign at the Eiger North Face

Ladders at the start of the Rotstock VF at the west flank of the Eiger

VF Equipment on and ready to go!

VF Lanyard with double karabiners clipped on the self belay line!

Ladders on the VF

Climbing on unprotected stratified rock

Former Rotstock train station long closed

Rotstock station in its heyday. Source: Grindelward Museum

Former observation deck from the Rotstock station

Protected scrambling

Upward traverse towards the summit saddle

Some scrambling to get to the Rotstock summit

On the Rotstock summit 2663M

An acrobatic climber on the Rotstock summit!

Photo of the west flank of the Eiger North Face from Rotstock

Start of the descent from Rotstock on rocky scree.

Snow obstacle encountered on the descent

Ropes used for downclimbing from the Rotstock

Typical stratified rock encountered on descent

A view of the Monch from the Jungfraujoch

A crowded Sphinx on the Jungfraujoch.

They sell foodstuffs at Beijing airport just like books!

#brian chung #harnessblueadventures #allalinhorn climb

MARCH 2014: MT BATUR VOLCANO CLIMB BALI INDONESIA

I spent a wonderful week in Bali during March with my wife Leila. Leila had some time available before the publication of her debut novel Chasing Shadows by Random House Australia in May. Refer http://www.randomhouse.com.au/books/leila-yusaf-chung/chasing-shadows-9780857983305.aspx

We spent time in Nusa Dua and Ubud and wanted to do do an excursion together that was both different and adventurous! We settled on the popular Mt Batur (1717M) volcano climb that was being advertised on many websites in Bali. Mt Batur last erupted in 1968. We booked the tour via the internet and waited expectantly but got worried when it rained incessantly the day before. Leila sms'd the tour operator about rain contingencies and promptly got a response "Don't worry, it doesn't rain in the mountains!"

The following morning, we were picked up by our tour operator at 1.30AM, and headed off to the mountains in incessant rain. We arrived at the starting point also in incessant rain. We waited for the rain to abate and finally set off for the volcano with rain coats and headlamps. The two guides and the tour operator were impressed with our technology which included headlamps, walking poles, altitude meter and leather gloves!

After a steady climb of over 2 hours we reached a viewing hut via a sandy then rocky path. Here we had breakfast of egg and bread and met the other participants, including the Indian honeymooners, the wife with a black eye, who posed for simulated action photos, the Canadians who were just amazed that we were there, and the Singaporean family with their precocious 10YO kid. We visited the crater of the volcano near the Mt Batur sign and fed the monkeys that were everywhere. I noticed that some monkeys were warming their butts by putting their posteriors into the crater fissures! The guides also showed us the temple situated in the crater. The Balinese treat all their temples and mountains with great respect. Everyone decided to return to the starting point as it was still raining and the path was slippery. On the way back, the guides advised us to avoid walking into webs of a deadly spider which looked very similar to the St John's Cross spider. Apparently, you have 30 minutes to take the anti-venom should you get bitten!

Finally, we got back to the hotel room around 1.30PM, had lunch and then enjoyed our spa treatment! A nice reward for going on our enjoyable but damp excursion!

Mt Batur from the viewing hut

Monkeys on the Mt Batur sign

At the temple near the crater

Views of Mt Batur at end of hike

#brian chung #mountain climbing #harnessblueadventures

MARCH 2013: MT KINABALU (4095M) CLIMB BORNEO AND DESCENT ON WORLD'S HIGHEST VIA FERRATA

My latest adventure was a summit attempt of Mount Kinabalu in Borneo coupled with a descent involving the World’s highest Via Ferrata as recorded in the Guinness Book of Records. Mt Kinabalu is located in the Sabah region of Malaysia and has been accorded UNESCO World Heritage status.

I decided I would do some climbing closer to home in Asia, this year as I was unable to be in Europe during the summer climbing season. The climb was on a granite mountain in sub alpine conditions and involved an ascent on rock towards Low's Peak at 4095M, followed by a via ferrata down climb and traverse.

My Mt Kinabalu climb was organized over 3 days, as follows:- Day One: Acclimatisation day at 1500M altitude at Kundasang Borneo Day Two: Climb 1423M to Base Camp Pendant Hut (3289M)

Day Three: Climb 806M to Low's peak summit (4095M), then descend by Via Ferrata down climb and traverse to Basecamp and thence hike down to starting point. So for day, that included an ascent of 806M and a descent of 2229M!

CLIMB COMMENTARY:

On day two, I met my local mountain guide at Kinabalu National Park HQ. Her name was NANI and she was a diminutive woman of at most 40Kg and 150cm in height! However, looks can be deceiving and she proved to be both fit and strong!

She got me to lead along the rocky upward trail to basecamp at the Pendant Hut. It was hard going and I needed to rest occasionally to catch my breath. The rain eventually came and my pants and pack were wet and therefore getting heavier despite my raincover. Eventually reached basecamp after 4 hours 40 minutes. Legs feeling sore and stiff! That night I was unable to sleep as there was too much noise and light in our dormitory.

The following morning, I departed in darkness with NANI at 2.45AM for the 806M ascent summit attempt, equipped with headlamp and helmet. Almost immediately, we encountered a traffic jam! There were a lot of climbers blocking the summit trail! So NANI started overtaking and weaving around the other climbers. It was getting tiring! The rocky sides of the mountain were getting steeper as indicated by the appearance of fixed ropes to assist in the climbing. After about 3 hours, we could sight Low's peak in the distance. Eventually, we had to scramble up the peak but to my amazement there were at least 50 other climbers hogging access to the peak! So had to bide our time before I was able to take a photo on the peak, and yes, you can't see the peak because of the other climbers! Crazy! Never-the-less, it was a great moment to reach the summit! And what a beautiful sight after dawn broke and we could see the surrounding panorama of peaks and the clouds!

NANI and I quickly left the peak as I had to meet my Via Ferrata guide John for the VF traverse and downclimb back to basecamp. The VF was rated as Assez Difficile (AD). Here in Malaysia, they use a belay rope in addition to a VF lanyard for safety! It took about 4 hours to complete and was great fun, and included 3 bridges. My guide was taking all the photos and kept me entertained! I didn't find it too difficult but my arms started to tire when coupled with all of the other climbing activities on the day.

NANI and I departed from basecamp for the long bumpy down trail hike back to the Timpohon Gate, the starting point of our climb. It was the only section that I used a walking pole. I was favouring my right knee! NANI noticed and offered to carry my rucksack but I declined! After 3 and half hours, we eventually reached the starting point. My legs were stiff and sore! We had finally completed a total of 2229M ascent and 2229M descent over the past 2 days!

SULU INSURGENCY:

While we we were on the road to the mountains, our bus had to go through a road block mounted by armed soldiers. Our guide explained that the military were looking for Sulu insurgents from the Phillipines who had entered Sabah. On completion of the Mt Kinabalu climb, I was able to learn that over 200 Sulu insurgents had entered Eastern Sabah during February and had killed a number of local police. It transpired that the Malaysian security forces had undertaken a sweep and killed over 50 insurgents around Lahad Datu.

From the newspapers, I was able to piece together that the descendants of Jamal Kiram, the former Sultan of North Borneo had sent the insurgents to Sabah to stake a claim on Sabah. It appears that the former Sultan had cessioned Sabah to the British North Borneo Company outright in 1878 for an annual cession payment. I also learnt that the eastern region of Sabah accommodates around 800,000 Suluks, of the same ethnicity as the insurgents from southern Philippines. Many Suluks were afforded residence in Sabah during the armed struggle between the Moros and the Phillippines government.

I was advised to stay in Kota Kinabalu and not visit the Sandakan animal sanctuaries on the Borneo east coast. There were also rumours on social media that some 700 Suluk and/or Moro militants from the Philippines would invade KK but nothing eventuated.

OVERALL:

The Mt Kinabalu climb was a great experience, physically demanding on par with my previous alpine climbs but lower technicality. Most painful part was the downhill descent on the rocky trail to the start. Most tiring was the 1423M climb to basecamp with full and wet backpack! The Sulu insurgency added a sense of adventure as well as sadness to the trip. Hope it gets resolved peacefully soon!

Climb Map

On the upward climb to basecamp

My mountain guide NANI

The rocky uphill trail to basecamp

Pendant Hut (3289M) Basecamp for Via Ferrata Climbers

Dreaming of a warm bed and hot shower at basecamp?

In reality, our dormitory in the basecamp at Pendant Hut (3289M) plus cold shower to boot!

Predawn approach near Low's peak after 2.45AM start

Near Low's Peak (4095M) just before dawn

Sitting in front of the sign on Low's peak (4095M)

Pandemonium as access to Low's Peak blocked by too many climbers.

Adjoining St John's Peak (4090M) from Low's Peak

Passing Donkey Ears Peak (4054M) on descent from Low's Peak

Passing South Peak (3933M) on descent towards the Via Ferrata

Start of the descent by via ferrata to basecamp

Traversing a rock wall on the via ferrata

Traversing above the clouds on the via ferrata

Downclimbing on via ferrata towards basecamp

Crossing a planked suspension bridge on the via ferrata

Crossing a three wire suspension bridge

Pausing on via ferrata above the clouds

Preparing for downclimb on VF

Crossing on a two wire suspension bridge on VF

Downtown Kota Kinabalu

Hotel Lobby of the Horizon Hotel Jalan Pantai

Sunday markets in Kota Kinabalu, Borneo

#brian chung #harnessblueadventures #mt kinabalu climb #mountain climbing #sulu insurgence #via ferrata mt kinabalu #via ferrata low's peak circuit

JULY 2012: POLLUX (4092M) SWISS ALPS SWITZERLAND

This trip, I had planned to climb the Pollux (4092M) and Castor (4228M) mountains in the Swiss Pennine alps with guides sourced through the Alpine Centre in Zermatt.

My acclimatisation started in Rougemont altitude 992M in the French speaking part of Switzerland. I did a climb on the Videmanette Via Ferrata to reach the summit of Le Rublii at 2285M. Fantastic views! VF wasn’t very difficult although classified as the most difficult. I think the via ferratas in Italy are more difficult and strenuous. My other activity was uphill hiking to continue the acclimatisation.

Then moved to Zermatt (1600M) to continue acclimatisation and prepare for the summit attempts. Stayed in Zermatt for 10 days but it was cloudy and raining for many days and I only managed to view the Matterhorn from my hotel room on 2 or 3 occasions!

Finally, after waiting 5 days, we had reasonable weather and the Pollux climb was confirmed for the Wednesday. I met our local guide Jean Paul Imboden and the other team member Yasaharu Mizuno from Japan. It turned out that Yasaharu is an adventurer, skydiver, judoka and cyclist who has travelled some 7000kms in Europe by bike, and was planning to climb the Matterhorn as his second climb after Pollux! We took the cable car to the Klein Matterhorn, and then hiked to the base of the Pollux, and then cramponed up the side until we reached a snow and rock couloir. We scrambled past the rock to reach a huge rockwall with fixed ropes. I found the rock wall extremely slippery particularly wearing crampons rather than the normal sticky rubber shoes! Also, we had to go up a moderately steep iced rock section that required digging in with ice axes. After some rock slipping, we eventually reached the minor summit and saw Madonna and child. So I guess this part of the mountain was in Italy? We then trudged up the summit ridge to reach the summit of Pollux at 4092M. There we noticed some black birds hovering around! The view was masked by the cloudy and overcast conditions, and our guide advised us we would have to hurry back as an electrical storm was approaching. On the descent, there were uphill sections which I found difficult to rush up. After a 6 and ½ hours round trip, we reached the Klein Matterhorn station. I was feeling exhausted and a little sick. I guess that’s how the altitude impacts me!

After the tiring mountain climb on Pollux mt, it took a few days for the lactic acid to drain from my weary legs. My Castor climb was cancelled due to the weather and lack of a second climber. So I took it easy for couple of days in Zermatt before setting out on peak bagging of the OberRothorn mountain at 3415m. It took 3 hours return. It didn't require any special mountaineering equipment just a hike along a zig zagging mountain trail (highest in northern Europe) up to the peak. Just had to be careful not to slip! I got myself a cable car pass and visited everywhere on the mountains in Zermatt and took photos of the mountains that I climbed from every conceivable perspective!

Rugged up and ready to start the Pollux climb

Climbing partner Yasaharu Mizuno, from Japan, adventurer skydiver, cyclist, judoka

Setting off short roped with Jean Paul our guide and Yasaharu behind me

Approaching the Pollux snow and rock couloir

Start of the tricky rockwall climb with our guide Jean Paul

Climbing the tricky rockwall with crampons

Approaching the Pollux summit via the summit ridge

Yasaharu and Brian on the summit of Pollux (4092M)

On the Pollux minor summit with Madonna and child

The start of the slippery rockwall descent with crampons on Pollux

Traffic jam on the rockwall descent

Sunrise on the Matterhorn from my hotel room

For the majority of days, the Matterhorn was shrouded in clouds!

On the summit of the OberRothorn (3415M)

Next to the OberRothorn

Le Rublii (2285M) in Rougemont

Start of the Videmanette Via Ferrata

On the summit of Le Rublii (2285M) scaled through the Videmanette Via Ferrata

View from the summit of Le Rublii (2285M)

All Swiss cows wear cow bells! Rougemont photo

#brian chung #pollux #swiss #swiss alps #mountaineering #mountain climbing #harnessblueadventures

JULY 2011: PIGNE DE LA LE (3400M) WEISSMIES (4023M) SWISS ALPS SWITZERLAND

Feeling the desire to learn more about alpine mountaineering, I embarked on a week’s summit and skills tour with ISM based in Leysin. To acclimatise in Leysin beforehand, I did some via ferrata climbing on the VF Plan Praz and Tour D’Ai that were classified as difficult in view of some overhangs and/or steep sections. However, they didn’t turn out to be too challenging, and I enjoyed the beautiful views offered from the top of Tour D’Ai.

I joined the alpine mountaineering tour with 7 other climbers and our 2 alpine guides Paulo from Italy and Andrew from Canada. The majority of activities would be around the Leysin and Saas Fee regions. The 2 guides were great in preparing us for the alpine climbs and equipping us with the necessary mountaineering skills, safety and rescue techniques. Our training for the climbs included rock climbing, rappelling, cramponing, rope and rescue techniques and hiking to our base camps at the Moiry hut and Almageller hut.

For our initial alpine climb of Pigne de La Le, I was partnered with Jan a 23YO German geology student. This climb was a mixed snow and rock ascent and required a lot of rock scrambling. Jan and I belayed each other up the rock faces. Again, fantastic views on the summit. Our total vertical ascent was 500M from the Moiry hut to the summit (3400M). The climb wasn’t tiring and we were able to practice crevasse rescue after the climb.

Our main objective for the week was the summit attempt of the Weissmies in Saas Fee from the Almageller hut base camp. This would be a challenging climb requiring a vertical ascent of 1130M! We set off at 6am in cloudy and windy conditions, after a difficult night attempting to sleep in midst of incessant snoring by everyone! Our group took the trail up to Zwischbergenpass, and thence onto the south ridge of the Weissmies. The climb was on mixed snow and rock. I was roped up with Andrew our guide and Michael, also from Canada. Climbing on the narrow summit ridge was quite exposed. We were the last team to reach the summit of Weissmies (4023M) after a five and a half hour climb. From the top, the views were spectacular, and I noticed we were above the clouds which were shifting very quickly. Our descent was via the glacier and thence onto the Hohsaas cable car, after a glacier descent of 881M. I was starting to feel exhausted as Andrew was driving us to move quickly. Possibly due to the dangers of the overhanging ceracs present? On return to Leysin, my legs felt like they were made of jelly. This climb was the most exhausting that I have ever completed in my short mountaineering career!

The whole group on the summit of Pigne de la Le (3400M). I'm second from left.

Eating lunch near Pigne de la Le (Gruyere cheese on bread?)

Moiry hut, a typical base camp for our summit attempts

Drinks at the Moiry Hut base camp

A break during our uphill hike to the Almageller Hut, 2894M base camp for the Weissmies summit attempt.

The group successfully summited the Weissmies at 4023M

On the Weissmies summit with Jan "the Axe murderer"

Late lunch (Gruyere cheese yuck!) at Hohsaas after the Weissmies climb

Having lunch break during rockclimbing training near Leysin

Our guide Paulo on the zip line on the via ferrata near Saas

Suspension bridge on Planpraz Via Ferrata

Tour D'Ai site of the Via Ferrata in La Berneuse above Leysin

#brian chung #weissmies climb #pigne de la le #mountaineering #harnessblueadventures

JULY 2010: BREITHORN (4164M) ZERMATT SWISS ALPS SWITZERLAND

After the Via ferrata trip in the Dolomites, I took a train to Zermatt via Milan. In Milan, I was accosted by 2 females. I felt a hand touch my front thigh to which I instantly turned around and snarled! The 2 females (bleach blonded and tattooed) quickly retreated when they realized that I was ready for their pickpocket attempt! In Zermatt, I joined a 6 person team to attempt a summiting of the Breithorn mountain which is next to the Matterhorn. We travelled up to Klein Matterhorn by cable car and from there started our climb to the Breithorn. We were wearing crampons and all connected together by ropes and harnesses, so that if anyone fell or tripped on crevasses etc, the others were to stop anyone disappearing through the snow and ice. As we started climbing, I felt like I needed to go to the toilet! What a time to feel your constipation coming good! I gritted my teeth and held firm and kept going! After zig zagging up the mountain for what felt like an eternity, (particularly if you feel like going to the toilet) we finally reached and stood on the summit of the Breithorn at 4164 metres, and congratulated each other! The summit was this small piece of snow approx 5 metres x 2 metres, which suddenly felt so cold and windy. My hat fell off but our guide Manfred retrieved it. We had a snack just below the summit. The guide, Manfred got me to lead the descent (I was on the end of the tail going on the ascent) so that if anyone fell he would see and anchor the fall! In the early afternoon, we finally reached the return cable car station and finally, I raced to the toilet! Whew!

After the climb I took the glacier express from Zermatt to St Moritz. Very panoramic trip which included a 3 course meal amongst the rolling views of mountains and glaciers. Played tourist in St Moritz and noted the abundance of high end hotels and Rolls Royce cars! From there, I spent a few lovely days in Zurich visiting my sister and her family. A nice way to cap off this trip!

Teams of cramponed climbers heading towards the Breithorn summit

On the summit of Breithorn. My hat blew off but was retrieved by Manfred.

Other climbers approach as we lunch on the summit

Teams of climbers heading down

A high end hotel in St Moritz with two Rolls Royces at the front.

#brian chung #breithorn climb #mountaineering #swiss alps #harnessblueadventures

JULY, 2010: VIA FERRATA DOLOMITE MOUNTAINS, ITALY

This trip, I decided to take a one week Via ferrata climbing adventure in the Dolomite Mountain region in Italy. So jetted off to Rome where I passed a few days with relatives and friends renewing relationships and touring the beautiful city. Then I set off for Venice where I would meet the other 9 climbers and our 2 guides Josef (Tyrolean) and Philippe (Italian). We would be based in the Hotel Posta Zinn at Corvara. Luckily, my room lodger didn’t turn up so I got to have a comfortable time in a huge room by myself!

The Dolomite mountains consist of limestone rock formations, dry and craggy, just perfect for climbing. On our first climbing day, our guides gave us basic safety instructions and VF climbing techniques. So equipped with helmet, harness and lanyard, we all progressed very quickly on VF climbing which is akin to protected rock scrambling. Originally, Via ferrata was developed to allow Italian alpine troops to move quickly across the mountains during the WWI campaign between the Italians and the Austro-Hungarians. In fact, some of the VFs we crossed, were installed during WWI and were in need of repair. And the remnants of the bunkers, pill boxes and tunnels were there to remind everyone of the region’s history. The five Via Ferratas that we tackled were as follows:-

Piz da Lech Tridentina Sandro Pertini Col Des Bos/Laggazoi Tunnels Delle Mesules Piz Selva (Possenecher)

Overall, I found the Via Ferrata climbing a fun activity and not particularly difficult nor tiring. Although, you need to get used to the exposure as we were on sheer cliffs on many occasions. And the view from such exposed positions was breathtaking! I found the uphill hiking more tiring than the VF activity per se, particularly as we were out walking or climbing for up to 8 hours in bright sunlight!

Our VF climbing group! I'm third from right in blue tshirt.

A huge limestone mountain in Dolomites near Corvara

Typical limestone rock formations in the Dolomites

VF Climbing up a sheer cliff

Pausing on a small ledge whilst climbing a steep faced cliff

VF Climbing the sheer cliff with Julie below me

Crossing a gorge via a ladder. It only looks like 500M to the valley floor?

It's follow the leader

Entering the Laggazoi tunnels, site of WWI attempt to blow up the Austro-Hungarians

Sightseeing on a typical canal in Venice

#brian chung #via ferrata #dolomites #VF #via ferrata dolomites #harnessblueadventures

MARCH, 2009 JEBEL TOUBKAL (4167M) WINTER CLIMB, HIGH ATLAS MOUNTAINS MOROCCO

For my second mountaineering trip, I chose the Jebel Toubkal winter climb in the High Atlas mountains in Morocco. The climb would be predominantly cramponing on snow. The one week expedition included 4 climbers, 2 local mountain guides, a cook and access to muleteers and porters. Our luggage went by mules part of the way and then by porters in the steep parts; these porters didn’t wear crampons nor use ice axes at all in the slippery snow conditions: Amazing!

The first objective was a snow trek to our base camp, at the French Alpine Shelter (3207M). In the afternoon, we practiced self arrest and belay techniques using our ice axes. Very important as we were climbing without ropes! On the day of the summit attempt, the weather was cloudy, overcast and cold! It was really hard and tiring walking/climbing in such cold conditions. I froze and my nose was runny, and I had trouble catching my breath! Never-the-less, it was exhilarating being around 4000M in altitude; The mountains and landscape were really breathtaking. The other team members were also knackered as well but very satisfied that they had conquered the highest mountain in North Africa! On the following day, there was a snow storm and the refuge was partially covered after all night snow, so our planned summit attempt of Jebel Ouanoukrim, a challenging 4088M peak was abandoned for fear of avalanches. As consolation, the team undertook a leisurely 3 hour snow trek in the surrounding hills. We then took a day and a half to trek downhill to return to sunny Marrakesh. On our return to Marrakech, we went walking again but it’s tiring dodging the vehicles. I revisited the Jemma el fna souk; and saw all the snake charmers, monkeys, noisy ambience, fortune tellers, and the guy selling old dentures and thousands of missing teeth, all are still there! And so passed a few pleasant afternoons, sipping mint tea and eating baclava style sweets. I was also able to practice the occasional french, and noted how the local youths could snap at their former colonial masters. On several occasions, these youths would call a french woman "salop" should they refuse their sales offer!

Our group trekking towards the foot of the mountains

Our luggage going up part of the way via the mules and the muleteer

Larsson, one of our local Berber mountain guides

As we ascend, snow appears so we have to wear crampons

Typical alpine conditions that we go through to get to base camp

We reached base camp at 3207M in readiness for the summit attempt

Scenery outside the basecamp

A team of climbers setting off for the summit

A brief pause on summit attempt day of Jebel Toubkal

Other members summit Jebel Toubkal at 4167M

Planned summit attempt of Jebel Ouanoukrim abandoned. Consolation trek.

Mountain scenery on our consolation hike

Descent of the mountain and return to Marrakesh

Approaching civilisation Imlill on our descent.

Cute goat that we saw on the descent towards Marrakesh

The souk and the Jemma el fna square in Marrakesh

Typical street view in Marrakesh

#brian chung #jebel toubkal climb #high atlas mountains #harnessblueadventures

NOVEMBER, 2007: SINGLE CONE MOUNTAIN (2319M), QUEENSTOWN, NEW ZEALAND

I went on my first mountain climb with my 18YO son Daniel. We spent an exciting 2 days with our mountain guide Bruce Hasler learning the basics of mountaineering and attempting to summit Single Cone, the tallest peak in Queenstown. In view of the perfect weather, Bruce decided we should climb the mountain the first day. There you have it: two complete novices climbing a mountain with the help of on the job training! The climb was a mixed snow, ice and rock ascent and it took about 9 hours to climb and descend from the mountain. Toward the summit the climbing became more technical and included a steep couloir of snow and ice that we had to climb using front pointing crampons and ice axes. Several times, we both felt terrified of the exposure and height but I suppose in reality the risks were limited in view that we were constantly belayed by our guide. On the summit we enjoyed the fantastic views and ate our canned butter chicken. It was a difficult but satisfying day and we learnt many new skills and achieved more than we had ever expected. We both felt absolutely exhausted no doubt exacerbated by the heavy backpacks that we wore to carry our climbing equipment, viz crampons, ice axes, helmet, harness, anchors etc. On the second day, we spent a most enjoyable and less tiring day doing abseiling and rock climbing on crags around Queenstown. The activity required that Daniel and I work as a team to belay each other. Great bonding activity for father and son. Daniel was stuck on the rock climb but Bruce was able to coach him to finish the climb. It’s always easier to climb as the second climber.

After our mountaineering adventure, we visited Milford Sound by boat, and then spent a day doing a glacier trek on the Franz Josef Glacier. It was so easy compared with the exertion required for our mountain climb! We both really enjoyed our first mountaineering experience!

Looking up the sheer (and terrifying) snow wall that we had to climb

Father and son bonding on the summit of Single Cone (2319M)

Daniel and the mountainous terrain

Watching our guide down climb the notorious snow wall

Abseiling from a crag wall near Queenstown

Father and son cramponing on a trek on the Franz Josef Glacier

Cruising on the beautiful Milford Sound

#brian chung #summit guides nz #single cone nz #remarkables nz #harnessblueadventures

JULY, 2007: THE TOUR OF MONT BLANC, FRANCE, SWIZERLAND, ITALY

My first adventure was a 14 day trekking tour around Mt Blanc with Exodus Travel. There were about a dozen trekkers on this trip, mostly from the UK. I was to learn subsequently that the British are the best organised travellers in Europe! It was a long and rocky hike that circled the Mt Blanc mountain range and started in Chamonix in France and traversed Switzerland and Italy. I had underprepared for the trip, and had never walked 15 – 20 kms in a day in my life. Unfortunately, coupled with ill-fitting boots, I ended up getting all my toenails bruised. Medical treatment involved painful lancing of the toenails by a Doctor in Chamonix. It was like striking oil on an oilfield – There she blows! I also jarred my knees on the descents, so I ended up missing a few days to get the medical treatment and to rest my sore knees. Another Aussie took pity on me and bought me a pair of thongs as I couldn’t wear my boots on account of my blue toenails! I was really happy that I had also elected to spend my nights in huts and hotels rather than camping out.

This trip allowed me to grasp the beauty and views afforded by the mountains. The Group trekked in a clockwise circuit that included Lac Blanc, Col de Forclaz, Champex, La Fouly, Col Ferret, Col du Bonhomme, Les Contamines, Les Houches and returning to Chamonix. And although, we were hiking generally under 2500M, I did notice the occasional climbers who were heading upwards on the trails and imagining what they would experience at the higher altitudes. I had an inkling there that I would really like to explore further mountain activities. At the conclusion of the hike, I took an excursion up the L’Aiguille du Midi via cablecar. Whilst enjoying the fantastic view from a lookout, I noticed some climbers down below clambering upwards to the L’Aiguille peak. I followed their slow climb for a few minutes, and then noticed they went through a large window of the restaurant/café on a lower level. What a great way to finish a climb! I thought to myself I can do that! And that was the start of my alpine mountaineering adventures.

In addition to the trekking, I took the opportunity to visit relatives and friends in Strasbourg, Dijon and in Zurich whilst soaking up the tourist sites. In Dijon, it appears that my french friend Jeanne had arranged a local wine buff to come and meet me. He apparently had a cellar with over 1000 bottles of french wine. Luckily, he didn't show up as Jeanne didn't know that I was allergic to alcohol!