SummitPost.org

Hi All,

I'm heading to Patagonia and Santiago, and I'm looking for some cool, easy, and classic climbs. I'm just starting to lead, and I'm looking for climbs 5.6 or easier, around grade III (long approaches are OK). Alpine-ish climbs would be ideal (but nothing requiring ice/snow pro or more than just a single mountaineering ax).

Any suggestions?

Thanks for the help,
Chase

Hi there,
try Cerro Castillo, to the South of Coyhaique. The rock is not the best, but there is a nice trail to this area. There are loads of stunning little mountain hikes around Coyhaique, some peaks you can easily summit in a day. If you want some unclimbed mountains, there are loads of easy ones too, just it is difficult to give advice since I dont know a timerange or your expectations. Try to find fellow climbers to go together. More fun, more safe..
Cheers!
olepat

catullus wrote:Hi All,

I'm heading to Patagonia and Santiago, and I'm looking for some cool, easy, and classic climbs. I'm just starting to lead, and I'm looking for climbs 5.6 or easier, around grade III (long approaches are OK). Alpine-ish climbs would be ideal (but nothing requiring ice/snow pro or more than just a single mountaineering ax).

Any suggestions?

Thanks for the help,
Chase

In Patagonia (Chilean side) :
Lake District or Cordillera Castillo indeed. But Castillo is a bigger deal and you are very left to yourself if you don't go guided.
You could also go to Cajon del Maipo just south of Santiago.