Juncal Glacier (3.100 m. – 10.164 ft.)
Andes Range

An ocean of ice

 

Highlight

We invite you to walk on an arm of ice that falls for more than 3.000 m. (9.843 ft.) down to our feet, and that forms part of the largest glacier system of the Central Andes and one of the few in expansion, right at the base of the impressive 6.100 m. (20.000 ft.) Juncal mountain. Our approximation to it offers us an imposing view of the mountain Alto Los Leones, considered by many as the Matterhorn (Cervino) of the Andes.

 

 

Description

From a bridge located at 2.400 m. (7.874 ft.) of altitude, we will begin walking through a path that will take us to the ice. We will ascend, following the way of the valley to the Southeast, penetrating the heart of the Andes. Many rivers and streams cross the path. As we advance, we will see how we get closer to the Alto los Leones (5.380 m. – 17.639 ft.) impressive rock wall.

After 2 hours we will arrive to the Chepica, a plain with plenty of grass and quite frequented by animals of the area. After that, we will cross the river Monos de Agua, which depending on the season and the time of day, might force us to take off our shoes. The valley will keep ascending and twist to the East.

We still need to pass through the moraines to get to the glacier. The path becomes somewhat uncomfortable as we are walking on ice covered with soil. The complete absence of crevasses in this zone allows us to advance with confidence. Just 20 more minutes, and we will be in the middle of white ice, at 3.100 m. (10.164 ft.), 3.000 m. (9.843 ft.) lower than the giant from which it is born; an inexplicable feeling.