Bridge over the river then along old rail track for a couple of miles. Climbed steep path to a gorge through the mountains Quebrada de Vargas. Los Penitentes pinnacles look like a Lord of the Rings scence. Pass a little tent sheltering behind a big rock and shortly after reach the refuge. Luckily we have been told it is little bigger than a telephone box so we are not disappointed that it is a tiny stone shelter.
The three guys from the tent are coming up the valley so weset off up a steep grassy hillside. Lose the path and scramble through some rocks before emerging on a rocky wide ridge. From there it is ever upwards usually with a zig zag path through scree. Very clear and we can see lots of mountains including Aconcagua. Sometimes very windy and exposed we are glad there are three other people below. Reach a flattish rocky area with snow pinnacles and feel on top of the world. Another 20mins and we are at the top about 2pm what a relief. Meet the three check guys on way down. One is called Wenceslas perfect for christmas. Wish each other happy christmas then they struggle up as we scree run down.
At refuge I have a bath in the river then continue back through the gorge. I must be tired as I stumble on path cutting my hand. Walk back on rail track is endless and I am good for nothing back at hostel. Martin congrats us.
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