The Khumbu region of Mt. Everest is highlighted by the world-renowned Khumbu Icefall, which makes this a challenging practice climb for the Balsiger Expedition Team.

Beginning at Everest Base Camp at an altitude of 17,600 feet, the route thru the Icefall is steep and treacherous and ends at Camp I at approximately 19,200 feet. From Camp I, the trail winds up for several hours and ends at Camp II (Advanced Base Camp/ABC) at approximately 21,000 feet, which is the goal for this particular climb.

All climbers attempting to summit Everest from the Nepal side must follow the route thru the Icefall. The route is filled with shifting ice towers and crevasses and is passed successfully using ladders, ropes and a bit of luck.