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Alpenglow’s Amazing Rapid Ascent Success

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Alpenglow Expedition’s first use of pre-acclimatization for an open-enrollment group outside of the Himalaya proved incredibly successful this January as 12 of 13 members stood atop the summit just ten days after leaving their homes and six days after being on the mountain (one climber unfortunately had to leave during the trek in). 

This is half the time usually taken on Aconcagua. We firmly believe that our team’s dedication to using Hypoxico Altitude Training systems for just four weeks before their departure to Argentina, along with their physical training programs, lead to their speed and strength while moving up on Aconcagua. We also want to say a huge thank you to the Alpenglow logistics crew for their impeccable planning, which helped ensure our Aconcagua team’s success .

The crew began their trip with a great three day hike into Aconcagua’s Base Camp with amazing views and one icy river crossing! “The team moved very well due to their fitness and the Hypoxico tents. Everybody around us was amazed at how well the group performed while laughing, talking and feeling great at such altitude,” said Chad Peele, Alpenglow guide, who led the expedition along with Alpenglow guide Jaime Avila.

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After taking a rest day at Camp 2 (17,900 ft), they moved to High Camp (19,700) and went for the summit the following day. It was a long day with normal times up and back down to High Camp at 12 hours roundtrip. Alpenglow Expeditions had a beautiful summit with low winds (0-10 mph), sunshine, and only two other climbers on top! After congratulations, tears, hugs and photos they descended the route to High Camp.

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After their climb, the team spent one night in at Horcones Valley Base Camp and enjoyed extra time in Mendoza touring the city, eating delicious food, and indulging in Mendoza’s famous wine.

You can read the daily details of their trip on their expedition blog and find out more about Hypoxico Altitude Training systems on the Hypoxico website.

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Photo credits: Jaime Avila and Chad Peele