ACONCAQUA EXPEDITION 22,842 FT. (6,962 Meters)
Prerequisites: Climbers need to be in excellent physical condition and be comfortable following ice up to WI grade 3. Previous experience at altitude is recommended.
THE SENTINEL OF STONE
Aconcagua, at 22,842 ft (6,962 meters) is one of the famous seven summits of the world. It is the tallest point in the America's and the highest peak in the world outside of Asia. Some climb the "Sentinel of Stone" in a quest to reach the highest point on every continent while others scale this massive mountain as a stepping-stone to larger and more technical climbs. At Peak Ascents, we believe both to be a worthwhile venture, which is why we primarily offer guided ascents up the Polish Glacier.
"..but most prominent of all is the Polish Glacier, rising and increasing in angle from right to left, where the summit ridge seems to touch the sky."
-R.J Secor
POLISH DIRECT VIA RELINCHOS VALLEY
This expedition begins in Mendoza, which is a large but charming city. Beautiful parks and cafes abound creating a heavenly start and finish to this trip. On day three, we will shuttle to Los Penitentes where the terrain begins to take a more noticeably mountainous look. Over the next several days, we hike comfortably with daypacks while mules carry our gear to our next camp each night. The first two days are spent traveling through the Vacas River Valley with the third day bringing us into the narrow Relinchos Valley and to base camp (Plaza Argentina) at 13,780 ft. Here, we will have full amenities (even beer for the descent!) including a dining tent and fresh cooked local cuisine. After a solid rest day we will begin to shuttle our gear higher onto the mountain, acclimatizing as we move. We will establish one intermediate camp, integrating rest days before making our final move up to high camp at 19,350. Here we will have time to acclimatize, enjoy the scenery and review the necessary skills for our upcoming climb. This itinerary has extra days built into it for proper acclimatization and possible bad weather days.
Highest Point In The Western Hemisphere!
The Polish Direct is an incredible high altitude snow and ice climb ranging from 35 to 50 degrees at its steepest sections. This beautiful climb makes its way up through Penitentes and onto the Polish Glacier at 20,100 ft (6,100 meters). Continuing up towards the East Ridge, which we follow to the most sought after summit in the western hemisphere. After we enjoy the summit, we will begin our descent using a non-technical route back to high camp. After resting at base camp, we will meet our mule team and start the journey back to the beautiful city of Mendoza where we will celebrate our accomplishments and enjoy the comforts of this lively city.