The Misadventures of Mount Kinabalu: A Testimonial to the Jack Stillman Trapper Backpack
Have you ever found yourself at 4,095 metres above sea level, questioning your life choices? Well, that was me last December when my partner Jarrod and I decided to climb Mount Kinabalu in Malaysian Borneo. Our gear of choice? Jarrod sported the MAD-13, while I trusted my faithful Jack Stillman Trapper Backpack. Here's how it all went down, or should I say up?
Kota Kinabalu: The Beginning
Our adventure started in the bustling city of Kota Kinabalu, where we hopped on a small bus with a group of equally enthusiastic climbers. Spirits were high, and so were our expectations. But little did we know, the real test was yet to come.
Brief History of Mount Kinabalu
Mount Kinabalu, towering at 4,095 meters, is the highest peak in Southeast Asia. A sacred site for the indigenous Kadazan-Dusun people, it’s believed to be the resting place of their ancestors' spirits. Climbers flock to this UNESCO World Heritage site to experience its unique biodiversity and the sheer challenge of the climb.
Lunch Not Fit for a Backpack
Upon arriving at the base of the mountain, we were handed a rather eclectic lunch: a mishmash of vegetables, an egg, water and some bread. Packing it into my already bulging Trapper Backpack was a game of Tetris. By now, it was stuffed with my compact puffer jacket, spare socks and undies, a rain jacket, leggings, a beanie, a scarf, an undershirt, snacks, gloves, a hiking pole, toiletries, my passport, and my phone. You name it, the Trapper had it.
Day One: The Climb Begins
We started our ascent at 10 AM. The climb was non-technical but gruelling, involving endless rocky steps and the occasional rope or rail for support. By 4 PM, we finally reached the hostel, 3,000 metres up. The view was stunning, but my desire for a hot shower was stronger. Unfortunately, cold showers were the only option, which felt like torture after a long day of climbing. The hostel itself was comfortable, offering a dormitory-style shared room and incredible food, all carried up daily by the superhuman porters.
Day Two: The Summit Push
After an early night, we woke at 2 AM to prepare for the final push to the summit. Fueled by a pre-dawn supper, we set off at 3 AM, headlamps lighting the way. The higher we climbed, the thinner the air and the harder it became to breathe. The final stretch involved clambering over steep, rocky slopes, using ropes to pull ourselves up. It was a brutal trek, but we reached the summit by 6 AM, just in time to watch the sunrise paint the sky.
The view was nothing short of spectacular. We marvelled at the epic shadow cast by the mountain, stretching to the horizon. The sense of accomplishment was immense, but so was the realisation that we now had to descend.
The Descent: A Comedy of Errors
Descending turned out to be the hardest part. What goes up must come down, and apparently, what goes up with minimal effort comes down with maximum pain.
Jarrod, bless his heart, twisted not one but both ankles. The porters, as strong as they were, couldn't carry him. So, we had to hobble our way down, Jarrod’s ankles swelling to the size of small melons.
We both struggled that day. Look at me! There’s not much meat or muscle on those legs! By the time we reached the base at 6 PM, both of us were utterly wrecked. We had missed the ferry to our booked resort on a nearby island and had to find a last-minute room back in Kota Kinabalu - Warm showers, soft bed, pills. Lots of pills.
Reflections and Regrets
So, would I do it again? No way. I’ve come to terms with the fact that I’m not cut out for mountain climbing. But do I regret the adventure? Not at all. Despite the hardships, it was an unforgettable experience. Plus, my Jack Stillman Trapper Backpack held up like a champ, proving its worth in the most demanding conditions.
The Trapper Backpack: A Lifesaver
Throughout the journey, my Trapper Backpack was my lifeline. Its sturdy 16oz waxed canvas frame took a battering because I virtually slid down on my bum. Scars on the thick leather base attest - exactly what it was designed for. Despite initially being packed to the brim, it remained comfortable and accessible.
Specifically, I was grateful for the ability to cinch the 8oz inner bag in and out as I took gear in and out as conditions changed. Oh and by the way, the guides all made positive comments on the bag. It was a bit unique.
If you’re looking for a reliable companion for your adventures, whether it’s a climb up Mount Kinabalu or a stroll through your local park, the Jack Stillman Trapper Backpack is your go-to. It’s built to last, just like my oath never to climb another damn mountain.
In conclusion, while I might not be scaling any more mountains, I’ll definitely be carrying my Trapper Backpack on future escapades. It’s seen me through some of the toughest challenges, and for that, it’s earned a place on my back and in my heart. Here's to more adventures, preferably on flat ground!
This story was written by Miranda. Miranda works for Jack Stillman at their Fremantle store and is engaged to Jarrod Stillman, the founder of Jack Stillman.
