December 22, 2011
Cerro Aconcagua. (Photo by Phil Ershler)
The first Aconcagua team for the 2011/12 season is on the trail. Guides Eben Reckord, Kelly Ryan and Martin Lucero met in Mendoza on December 17 to make final food purchases and organize gear. The team arrived on the 19th, did gear checks and then secured their permits the morning of the 20th, prior to heading towards the mountain and a place called Penitentes. One night there at the hotel and the approach began the morning of the 21st. They reached Pampas de las Lenas that day and spent their first night on the trail there. So far, so good. A relatively easy day for everyone.
They’re off so stay tuned. We’ll continue dispatches over the holidays as much as we are able.
Phil Ershler