Those with time and energy left after climbing Vinson should think about making an ascent of the nearby Mount Shinn. At 4660m Shinn is one of the 5 highest peaks in Antarctica and provides breathtaking views North along the rest of the Ellsworth chain. The extremely pleasant final mixed ground and airy alpine ridge demands concentration. However it's hard not to be distracted by the views South to the Vinson massif and beyond to the seemingly infinite, horizon bending expanse of flat and white stretching out to the South Pole.....

Those with even more time and energy, not to mention hard cash, could have a closer look at the tough and technical challenges required in climbing Mount Tyree, (see photo, two above) the 2nd highest peak in Antarctica. In a similar theme to the differences between K2 and Everest, Tyree is a long and difficult climb and has only received 4 ascents. All were by strong teams including U.S. super alpinsits Conrad Anker and Alex Lowe, a remarkable solo ascent by Mugs Stump and an ascent by a very strong French team in 1997. There are various exciting possibilities for new lines as well as the first British ascent so if anyone out there has $100000 or so to spare and fancies sponsoring a British Tyree expedition.....please do get in touch!

Thanks to Antarctic Logistics and Expeditions (A.L.E.) and Adventure Network International (A.N.I.) for an excellent seasons guiding work in Antarctica. ALE run an impressively strict environmental policy on Vinson which includes the removal of all human waste. So, despite the presence of numerous other teams on the mountain, it still feels like you are climbing in a pristine environment.