To the Mountains

First Glimpses into Our Alpine Future

As glorified transition to the high Andes, this day did little to ease any tensions. But, the beautiful views on the way up into the brought butterflies of anticipation.



We arrived at Puenta del Inca Hostel, prepared our gear to be packed out by mules, and then got itchy legs to see the surroundings and test our lungs at altitude.



A medium size group wandered up the road towards the Chilean border crossing to gain a first glimpse of our mountain foe, Aconcagua.



Looking up the valley at the south face, we were all respectfully impressed. That is when the first statistics started popping up, especially that only between 30 and 40 percent of all climbers each season actually summit. Of course every one of us automatically included ourselves in the decidedly smaller and successful category.



The muffled sideline talk began, as to who wouldn’t make the grade. No one spoke directly but indirect commentary was clear. Ivan, an accountant from Hong Kong didn’t gain much “benefit of the doubt” by launching multiple digestive volleys: in the bus and after lunch.

We all slept uneasily in dorm rooms. If the anticipation didn’t keep the “sand man” away, then Alex’s throaty snoring vibrato was sure the rock the ear plugs right out of your ear canals. At one point a resounding, “Shut the **** up” (from Jim) rocked the room to no avail. Deep sleep in all conditions is a real talent.