Chopicalqui's magnificence at 6,345 m. ( 20,304 ft.) and more so that of its companion, Huascaran, greet our eyes as we approach the beautiful Callejon de Huaylas valley. Their clear outlines and snowy walls emerge into view as we arrive at this welcoming spot and realize that both form an exquisite aesthetic combination. There is no doubt, then, that it is they who dominate and protect this beautiful paradise.
This mountain is certainly one of the highest in Cordillera Blanca. It is a splendid colossus that outlines enigmatic walls and at times terrifying ridges. One that particularly stands out is the link with the col formed by this mountain and Huascaran South. This southwest ridge is rather wide at the beginning and vertical in certain spots which increase in difficulty as one approaches the summit due to the steepness in certain areas. Chopicalqui, which means semi-grooved in Quechua, was chosen by the first expeditions led by E. Schneider and E. Hein, which eager to crown this still unexplored peak, started out on the road to success in 1932 by reaching its high summit. Its other sharp ridges race down to touch the quiet and overwhelming greenness found in the beautiful Llanganuco, Morococha and Ulta surrounding valleys. Its lofty walls are filled with exotic colors at dusk and show us its grooved slopes, hinting at its actual level of difficulty, causing amazement in locals and visitors, since it is difficult to imagine the great domains and views at the end of its icy walls and delicate ridges.
|
