Local Teen to Embark on Hike to Everest Base Camp ER

The 17-year-old will begin his adventure later this month.

Isaac Garrett. Photo provided.

(Milan, Ind.) – A teenager from Milan is set to embark on the adventure of a lifetime.

On April 21, Isaac Garrett, 17, will take off for a 21-day hiking trek to Everest Base Camp ER as part of a Wilderness Medicine Exploration Group.

Garrett has been planning this trip for over a year.

“When my mom first asked me if I wanted to do it, all I could think was ‘Wow, how many kids can say they have been to Mt. Everest’.  The next step was to ask my principal and my teachers if they would approve a 26-day absence.”  Isaac attends Community Christian Academy in Taylor Mill, Kentucky, where he is a junior this year.  “My principal, Mrs. Bates, didn’t even hesitate.  She said absolutely, we will make it work. This began my prepping process.” 

Garrett will begin his journey from Kathmandu, Nepal on April 23 and will spend a day acclimating to the altitude.

He will be hiking for 11 days for a total of 40 miles to reach Everest Base Camp, which sits 18,192’ above sea level. By comparison, Milan is 991’ above sea level.

When he reaches the Everest Base Camp ER, Garrett will observe those returning from their attempt at ascent to the highest elevation in the world. He will be able to learn about frost bites, snow blindness, flash pulmonary edema, and other injuries that can occur while climbing Everest.

The Milan native will also be taught about wilderness medicine by some of the most world-renowned doctors who have set the standards for Wilderness Medicine.

“This adventure, I cannot even begin to comprehend.  All I know is that I am thankful to God for allowing me to be able to see His beauty.  I hope this inspires others around me to get out and enjoy nature.  Limitations are optional and adventure is endless. All you have to do is get up from behind the computer or the phone and start by taking the first step.”  Isaac hopes to inspire others to go outside and explore.  “Part of the business I hope to inherit, Empowering Wilderness Training, is helping to remove obstacles from those who don’t know where to start in exploring the great outdoors.  We hope to create a community, where it does not matter who you are or your experience level, you can come and hike with us.  You can come and camp with us.  You can come and kayak with us.  You can come and rock climb with us and we will teach you, that way you can inspire others to do the same.”