First Acclimatization Peak Complete
Earlier today our team successfully completed a climb of Pasochoa – an extinct Volcano on the outskirts of Quito with an altitude of approximately 13,700 feet. Pasochoa represents an excellent first trek for the trip, as it offers about a 4 – 5 hour round trip on relatively mellow terrain, yet with just the right amount of altitude gain to qualify as an excellent endeavor. Beautiful views of the surrounding valley abound from the modest summit.
A little bit of rain/graupel towards the very end of the hike reminded everyone that mountain weather is fickle and can change rapidly. Chance favors the prepared mountaineer!
Tomorrow our team will be heading to Cotopaxi National Park where we will be climbing Ruminahui (15,400′) – an excellent second objective as we continue on our acclimatization schedule. After which we will descend to about 12,400′ and our wonderful accommodations in Cotopaxi NP for the evening. The following day we will be heading up to the snow line on Cotopaxi to complete our snow school and glacier training.
All of our team members are doing fantastic, feeling well, and looking forward to the rest of the week’s climbs and adventures. We will do our best to share more pics and stories from the trip as much as internet access allows!
