This is Robert Guthrie, reporting in on the 2003 explorer Anderson Antarctic Expedition. From the 3,000 foot glacial valley where the plane dropped us off, we went after our first slopes, undulating falls that (are) one of the many Vinson ice tributaries.

We made our way on skis with a backpack and sled containing gear, food and cooking fuel needed to sustain us in this otherworldly place. There is an eerie sense of adventure when we realize that we are seeing and exploring a place where no man has set foot.

With 24 hours of daylight, we slip into a cycle that is more suited for climbing objectives and weather. As we struggle with the early expedition loads, the steep slopes and the crusted snow, we have the blazing hot Antarctic sun to contend with. This was a complete shock to my Antarctic image. Bare arms, one top layer, a bandana and a hat were still not enough to keep from overheating in the sun that had Sahara-like intensity. For the moment it was a desolate-like desert.

The group has become a team: negotiating the sled around crevasses in the angled, windswept snow required everyone's effort. We're honored to be in this white, pristine and vast land at 6,300 feet.

— Robert Guthrie, expedition member and MountainZone.com correspondent