Hi all - I have been wanting to climb in the Andes since I started my climbing journey about 5 years ago. The problem is I don't know the best challenge to take on. I've been told by a guide I can do Tocclarju, but would like to hear from others.
Current Experience:
Ice climbed a 4 x, can top rope a 3+ and compete on a W4.
Have 4 attempts on 2 of the well known Cascade peaks, and summited twice, ironically on the more challenging routes (one of these were guided, one with a more experienced team member).
I have a small amount of outdoor rock climbing experience
Some solid long day hiking experience & learned some relevant skills with my volunteer fire dept.
In good, but not great shape.
I know my basics around an ice axe, a crampon, rapelle etc. and how not to look like a complete beginniner, but if i'm being honest, I would not feel comfortable trying to lead a team up even a "easier" peak.
Goals:
I want to ultimately work my way up to trying a 20K Peak either Denali or huscaran are in my mind. I'm 38 and while not old, wanting to take advantage of whatever youth is left in me. Right now, the goal is altitude and good experience on a glacier team.
I'm getting married and have a ton going on, so trying to not look for an extreme stretch goal, but something that's a reasonable push on my previous experience.
Any thoughts or recommendations? Thanks so much in advance!