Tuesday, November 23, 2010

Volcan Lonquimay Ascent, PN Mallelcahuelo, Chile

After being drenched in constant rain whilst walking round Volcan Lonquimay, when the weather cleared after we'd returned, it was time to go for a drive to see the volcano we'd been walking around.

As soon the lads laid eyes on the beautiful peak, they decided it was something that they needed to climb. So we spent the afternoon trying (successfully) to hire extra crampons and ice axes.

Conditions were perfect as we began. Clear skies meant a good freeze and a full moon lit the way for our alpine start. The dawn was incredible, its just such a fantastic time to be up high in the mountains.

The climb was very straight forward, with perfect cramponing conditions until the last few hundred meters where it began to soften a little in the sun. About halfway up the mountain, we encountered very strong winds which made climbing on the ridge much more 'interesting', but the day was perfectly clear and the views sublime.



Daybreak on Volcan Lonquimay's eastern flank

Mike enjoys the sunrise


Getting high on Lonquimay



The ridge begins to narrow and steepen as the wind increases to near gale.
But at least it isn't raining...


Nearing the summit rocks


Mike and Dan on the summit of Volcan Lonquimay, 2865m


Volcan Osorno and many other major peaks can be seen from the summit


Mike descending in softening snow


Strolling back to our car, 4h30m round trip, 1000m of altitude gain.

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