Route Along the Polish Glacier of Aconcagua
The summit of Aconcagua, known as the “Roof of the Americas,” can be reached via three different paths. You can take the Typical Path, the Polish Traverse Path, or the Polish Glacier Path. You can change these routes, but the changes are usually much more difficult technically and should only be tried by experienced climbers.
Map of Aconcagua Hiking Trails
The graphic mentioned above neatly details the three standard Aconcagua 360 Routes. Climbers on the Normal Route take the Northwest ridge to the summit. The path is commonly referred to as a “trekking” route because it does not involve any technically challenging climbing. But the great altitude still makes the journey hazardous. Occasionally, ice axes and crampons will be required.
It is clear from the map that both Polish routes depart from the other side of the mountain, in the east. The distance covered by the traverse route is about 20% greater than that of the direct way because it goes around the mountain and then back to the normal path around a kilometer or so below the peak. Although no technical climbing skills are required, this route is more challenging than the normal route because of the necessity for crampons and ice axes on the top slopes.
Expert mountaineers only should attempt the Polish Glacier Route. The trail goes up steeply on the east side of the mountain and goes across the famous Polish Glacier. This route is the only one that calls for ice climbing gear, such as ice axes and short roping.
Aconcagua Route Summaries the Regular Way
In 1897, Matthias Zurbriggen was the first to ascend the mountain by the Normal Route. Because of its reputation as the highest “trekking mountain” in the world, Everest has become popular since then. While this is true, you should pay attention to the Normal Route’s potential for success since fewer than 50% of tries fail. Most mountaineers don’t give much thought to the height, instead fixating on the idea that it’s a simple walking peak.
Climbing season runs from November to March, when the average time to the summit is 18 days. Near the peak, temperatures rarely get above freezing, even in the winter, and winds regularly exceed 50 miles per hour. The ascent is challenging enough without factoring in the high altitude.
Ropes and ice axes are typically unnecessary on this trail, but they have been used in harsh weather. Close to the peak, most mountaineers resort to trekking poles and crampons.
Polish Traverse Route
While the Normal Route is the most traveled, the Polish Traverse Route is a close second. Starting on the mountain’s eastern side, the trip typically lasts for around 18 days. After taking a leisurely trip around the mountain, you’ll eventually reach the Normal Route, which you can join not far from the peak.
This route has minor technical climbing and is slightly more complex than the Normal route. Before joining the Normal Route, climbers must first traverse a brief but fairly steep snow section. It is common to practice using ice axes and crampons when climbing. In all but the worst weather, climbing ropes are rarely used.
Conclusion
Aconcagua Polish Route, one of the Seven Summits, is an impressive peak with some of South America’s greatest views. Climbers who make it to the summit are rewarded with stunning views of the Andes and a small taste of what it’s like to conquer a Himalayan peak.
