August 15, 2014
Alpamayo Base Camp (Greg Vernovage)
Luke just called from Pequeno Alpamayo Base Camp. Â The team had a great hike to camp with no issues. Â They are in great shape and everyone is feeling good.
Just after the team pulled into camp, the snow started falling. They have about three inches of new snow on the ground which must make the place look even more amazing!  The falling snow didn’t stop the gang from getting their gear out and setting up the harnesses.  Some fixed line instruction and endless peaks to look at rounded out the day.
Looking up the valley, the team will first see Pico Austria which is where they are planning on taking another acclimatization hike tomorrow. Â The hike is to a peak just over 17k. Â To the right of Pico Austria is Condoriri. Â We look at it and find the best chutes and lines to climb in the future. Â Just to the right of Condoriri is Pequeno Alpamayo, up the glacier and poking out over the “first” summit.
The snow on the ground will be good for the route. Â The final ridge to the summit of Pequeno Alpamayo was getting a little icy a few weeks ago. Â The new snow will make for some great footwork with the crampons!
Greg Vernovage