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The slope became steeper and with great effort we resumed our walk till the plateau at 3,000 m MSL. We walked along a rocky hill that led us to Canaleta del Silencio (Silence Gutter), from where we looked at the impressive Villarrica Volcano. It was about 8 am when we started using the picks. Everyone was excited at that point. |
An hour later, the best, the most exciting was yet to come: we made it to the summit. The feeling of being there is inexplicable. It is without a doubt unique and superb, indeed. The Lanín Volcano rises and looks at us from a privileged place.
We walked around the summit. We turned 360º and we could see the Villarrica and Mocho Volcanoes on the Chilean side. When facing the north, we could see the Llaima Volcano and Peineta hill. When facing the south, we could see Tronador, Puntiagudo and, at the distance, the Osorno Volcano. Lakes Tromen, Huechulafquen and Paimun are nothing but “puddles of water” seen from the height. |
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When we became aware of where we were standing, we were filled with happiness. We uncorked champagne and wine to celebrate that we had made it to the top after several hours of walk and effort. Being there entails a time to ponder and to explore oneself.
We remained for a few minutes thinking, taking pictures and enjoying the scenic views. We got ready to go back to the refuge. We picked up the garbage and started our way down. |
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The technique to climb down with the crampons is similar to the way up, but in this case, first you need to place the heel and then the rest of the foot. Our first break was at the C.A.J.A. refuge and then we had another a few meters before reaching R.I.M. 26. There, the guide and his helper told us how to lock the picks in case we slipped.
The guide decided to climb down along La Canaleta. We seized the opportunity to walk on the snow and we used the crampons with the technique learned the previous afternoon. A few minutes later, at the intersection of the mule way and Canaleta we took the crampons off and continued climbing down along the Fish Bone Ridge. |
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Little by little, we left the trail and the base of the Lanín behind and we entered the lenga forest. We had an adjustment break and continued towards the forest. At 6.30 pm, we reached the Rio Turbio post at Lanín National Park. |
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Half and hour later, the shuttle picked us up from the park rangers check point to take us back to San Martín de los Andes. We were happily exhausted with the certainty that we would never forget that wonderful experience. Cheers, Lanín. Cheers. |
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Welcome Argentina - Outings in Junín de los Andes
© 2003-2012 Total or partial reproduction forbidden. Derechos de Autor 675246 Ley 11723
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It is not always possible to hit the summit due to weather conditions. At such height, the weather determines whether the aim can be achieved or not. Furthermore, safety and physical questions are always determined by the mountain guide.
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