Richard White Saw ‘Em and Did ‘Em All 50!

[Published in Apex to Zenith #50 – Third Quarter 2000]

Richard White on Elbert.

Number done solo: 47, all but Denali, Rainier, and Hood.  Multiple Attempts: Driskill (2) scary lightning storm…Boundary (2) couldn’t find trail head

Ever since I was young, I have wanted to explore the United States. I can’t think of a better way to do that than to see each state from its highest point. Many thanks to my climbing partners. Glenn “Blaze” “Gumby” Van Viler on Denali. Third time’s a charm! It was great to witness your 50th HP. And Scott Hylm (not a HPer) on Rainier for their companionship on the climbs that I think are too risky to climb solo. I want to thank my friends and family for their support and encouragement. Also, thanks to Paul Zumwalt for his informative guidebook.

Richard’s Highpoint Index:

• Age: 34
• Residence: Portland, OR
• Occupations: Attorney, College Instructor, Ski Coach, and Photographer
• Climbing Club: Mazamas
• First HP: Mount Hood, May 21, 1995
• 50th HP: Mount Rainier, July 21, 2000
• Most difficult (in order): Denali, Gannett, Granite, Rainier and Borah
• Easiest: Florida, Delaware, and New Jersey
• Most ascents: Mt Hood (4), and multilple ski descents on Mt Washington (Tuckerman’s Ravine) although only one summit
• Multiple attempts: Rainier (3) multiple difficulties, Boundary (2) couldn’t find the trailhead, Wheeler (2) bad weather, Driskell (2) scary lightning storm, Rhode Island (2) unfriendly locals, and Katahdin (2) not open early season
• Number done solo: 47, all but DenaIi, Rainier, and Hood
• Winter ascents (excluding walk-ups): Wheeler and Mauna Kea
• Most beautiful: Gannett, Whitney, Denali, Katahdin, and Hamey
• Most Disappointing: Rhode Island, Nebraska, and Kentucky
• Most pleasant walk-ups: Illinois, Iowa, and Kansas
• Future goals: Finish visiting all the US National Parks and Monuments, continue exploring the US and other countries of the world.
• Mottos to highpoint by: “the summit is optional, getting down is manda­tory” (credit Ed Viesturs) and “always leave the place cleaner than when you found it” (my parents and others)