Chopicalqui

Mountain Quickie

• Height: 20,840 feet (6,350 meters)
• Normal route: Southwest Ridge
• Grade: AD-
• Elevation gain: 1,550 meters from moraine camp
• Time: 1-2 days from moraine camp to summit and back
• Equipment: crampons, 2 axes, rope, pickets

Overview

The mammoth Chopicalqui is one of the Cordillera's most striking peaks. It offers a challenging ascent requiring intermediate level alpine skills, and an excellent opportunity for climbers who want to make an ascent to high altitude. Chopicalqui is the fourth highest mountain in the Cordillera Blanca.

It is located immediately northeast of Peru's highest mountain, Huascaran. It offers superb views of the two Huascaran peaks, the Huandoy group, and Chacraraju, all of which are close at hand. The southwest ridge is a moderate snow climb, but deep snow or bad weather could spoil chances of success.