Ashley Burke, Peru 2007

Huascarán Climbing Expedition , Peru

23 - 28 Jul 2007


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Day 3 - Climb to Camp 2 (5900m)

25 Jul 2007

Today was the first day using ropes and the first day of technical snow and ice climbing. The route from Camp 1 to Camp 2 was steep in places, and wound its way up among teetering seracs and crevasses. The ice formations were spectacular, as was the scenery. We set off at about 6:30am and almost all of today's climbing was done while the route was still in shadow. This meant that the ice remained solid and good for climbing, as the sun did not reach it until about 11am. We reached Camp 2 by midday, and the afternoon was spent resting. I was feeling the affects of altitude at Camp 2 and found it impossible to sleep. We did, however, enjoy the spectacular scenery from the camp. We ate only sparingly from our meagre supplies.

		Starting out from Camp 1 at about 6:30am, the first part of the climb we were able to do without being roped up. The tents at Camp 1 can be seen on the top right of the photo. It was very cold at this time of the morning so we were pleased to get going.

		Things get steeper. We are still in shadow while the sun reaches the Cordillera Negra.

		This is one of the obstacles on the route to Camp 2. We had to cross this deep crevasse, not quite bridged by a narrow causeway.

		We remained roped up for some steep climbing. The shadow of Huascarán is seen in the background.

		Here is one of the steep climbing pitches on the route to Camp 2.

		Now we are above the steep sections and we move into sunlight for the first time this day. Camp 2 is not far ahead.

		Adam just below Camp 2.

		Jeff climbing up towards Camp 2.

		Our tents at Camp 2.

		The sun sets over the Cordillera Blanca. As soon as the sun goes down it gets very cold.

		Camp 2 in the evening light.

		Here I am at Camp 2. Photo taken by Carl.

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