Approaching the end of Quebrada Rurec

Quebrada Rurec is a broad, yet steep sided valley in the southern part of the Cordillera Blanca. As far as hiking opportunities go, you can hike deep into the valley, but to the best of my knowledge, there is no alternative than to hike back the way you came, unless you bring mountaineering gear. From far away, Nevado Rurec (5700m) can already be seen towering above the end of the valley. To the left, only a little bit further away, is the giant Nevado Huantsán (6369m). Since the saddle between the two isn't much lower than 5600m, I would classify Rurec a subsidiary of Huantsán. Even the 'normal' route on Huantsán is a very difficult climb, and that's from the other side. I haven't read anything about climbing Rurec, but from the photos I took from the south, and looking at the map, I'm convinced that there must be an easier way up coming from the north, either directly, or via the saddle with Huantsán. 17 July 2011.