Bagging Alaska Peaks: The Physical, Mental, and Spiritual Journey of Mountaineering

Episode 1: Pioneer Peak (6,398 ft) w/Jon Curtis

2024-12-01

I get the opportunity to chat with Jon Curtis and his journey summiting Pioneer Peak (a "Rite of Passage" for aspiring mountaineers). Pioneer Peak sits within the popular Chugach Mountain range and when viewed from Palmer, Alaska is absolutely epic! Jon’s climb challenged his own physical and mental strength as he was forced to take the long, grueling descent with an injured leg after bagging the peak. Enjoy the conversation as we discuss detailed route conditions, recommended gear, and what to expect if you're considering bagging the peak Additionally, we dive into how Jon overcame his injury and descended the mountain safely.

/ Discussion Points w/Time Advances
Trail/Route Access: 08:12 & 12:45
/ Trail Conditions: 09:30
/ Recommended Gear: 10:50
/ Physical, Mental, Spiritual: 28:15
/ Jon’s Favorite Mountaineering Quote: 35:25

/Host: Sean Kortus Instagram @wkndview (https://www.instagram.com/wkndview/)

/Music: Emberloom

No. of episodes

9

Latest episode

2025-07-01

Where can you listen?

Widely known as the Last Frontier, Alaska presents itself as one of the most epic and beautiful places on earth. For many, it means they get the opportunity to not only immerse themselves in solitude, but challenge themselves physically, mentally, and spiritually on some of the most scenic, highest, and technical peaks in North America. Hey, my name is Sean Kortus and a resident of Alaska living just outside of the Anchorage area. My family and I relocated here in early 2024 and immediately fell in love with the landscape and opportunity to hike, in my opinion, some of the best trails, routes, and mountains in the country. I started climbing on the east coast in 2005 right before I went into the military, however, never had the opportunity to do any high peak mountaineering until I arrived in Alaska….and I have been non-stop ever since. When not at my 9-5 job, spending time with my wife and son, or out bagging peaks myself….I am an active member and Vice President of the Mountaineering Club of Alaska and also support a local conservation agent program augmenting Alaska Fish and Wildlife officers. Feel free to follow my 2025 Denali Team training updates and family summits on Instagram @wkndview (short for Weekend View).
Mountaineering as a sport has evolved over the years, and with today’s access to trails, and advanced gear to climb them has only boosted the interest among aspiring climbers. No matter the skill level or peak elevation, Alaska has something for everybody. My intent and goal of this podcast is to simply TALK and connect with people who share similar interest and passion for standing on some the most beautiful peaks in North America, no matter the elevation. A casual conversation (accompanied maybe by some whiskey, beer, wine, or coffee) with detailed trail and peak routes, while also touching on the physical, mental, and spiritual journey of mountaineering. With the goal of 2 episodes released each month, We explore peaks within the Chugach, Brooks, Wrangell, Alaska (and many more) ranges and talk to the people that challenged themselves to stand on top of them.
Join me (and my guests) in listening to some incredible mountaineering journeys from some of the smallest peaks (like the Bodenburge Butte in Palmer AK) to the more epic expedition style climbs such as Denali…and everything in between. This is the “Bagging Alaska Peaks” podcast, Thanks for listening and let’s bag some peaks!