This route is an enjoyable way to extend your climb up to Stepanek and spend more time in altitude while aclimatizing.
It takes 1-2 hours to reach a small summit at 4221 m (based on the Meridied map available in Mendoza) at the end of the ridge. From there, it is an easy descent back to the camp of Piedras Grandes.

Getting There

See the normal route to Stepanek

Route Description

From the summit of Stepanek, follow the ridge towards the W. Stay on the top of the ridge as much as you can. Large stable rocks will make it easier. You can also use some marked paths on the sides (first on the left, then on the right of the ridge).
After some time you will reach a summit marked by a stick. You cannot continue on the ridge beyond this point without mountaineering equipment (for rappel).
To go around this difficulty, go back some 30m and take a right (N) down and around the ridge. Once past this point, you can escape the ridge on your left and go back to the valley between Adolfo Calle and Stepanek using an easy scree slope.
You can also choose to continue up the ridge to point 4221 by crossing some flat parts and smaller summits. Be careful, the rock from here onwards is unstable slate.
From the summit, desend the scree slopes back to the valley.

Essential Gear

No gear is needed.

External Links

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