Today (Thursday December 7th) was the epic climb to the base of the Torres del Paine. This hike takes all day and is part of the "W" trail that people come from all over the world to climb. We were lucky that the weather was good and we only had to contend with the ever-present Patagonian wind. No bus ride to the trail head was necessary today as we simply left from EcoLodge after breakfast and walked down the hill past the backpackers center and further on past the hotel to the base of the trail. For the next 4 1/2 hours we trekked up and up to this gorgeous view on this glacial lake. The trail led us through the forest of pine trees until we crossed a wide open cut through the hills called the Wind Pass. Before going through Claudio told us if the wind came up strongly and we felt like we may be blown off our feet to squat down until the gusts subsided a bit. The trail wound its way up over boulders and looser rocks and crossed streams where we could drink without worrying about giardia. The last 15 minutes we clambered over boulders to reach the base. Having trekking poles helped a lot. When we reached the top we had climbed steadily for about 2500 feet. The reward was a stunning view of the three towers and the surrounding mountains where we were able to relax and eat our lunch.
Mate break for Alberto and Claudio
Honestly, the climb down was actually harder on the knees. Down and down we went being careful to place our boots on something stable, step after step. Total trip, including our break was 9 hours and 10 minutes from EcoLodge to the base and back. Slow and steady wins the race. We survived, Lou's trekking poles did not and ended the day bent and no longer useful.
Proof we didn't fake it.
Crossing the Wind Pass
The valley as we were heading down
There are others who do this hike of about 15 miles much more quickly but our guides set the pace and allowed us to enjoy the scenery and return to EcoCamp ready to hike the next day.
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