Huaraz and the Cordillera Blanca

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On our way up north we were unsure of our next stop but heard many good things about Huaraz so we decided to stop there. We arrived at six in the morning and were greeted by a tour guide/hostel worker. He provided us with a cheap hostel and on our way tried to get us to sign up for a four day trek tour that goes through the huge mountain pass of Cordillera Blanca. We were tired and ready for bed and not thinking very clearly we decided, why not. Turns outs it was a great desicion. We spent that day walking around Huaraz then relaxing in the thermal baths, getting ready for the big trek.
Day 1- The first day we drove a couple hours until we reached the mountain range, then we started hiking and more hiking. We hiked for about four hours the first day, all up hill. When we arrived at our first camp site we got to know the other travelers better. A Limeno, 2 Germans, 2 espanolas, a Brit, 2 Belgians, and us. Our campsite was just outside some mountains and was beautiful. Our mules that were carrying all of our camping gear were close behind. We ate dinner then went to bed early for an early rise. It was very cold that night and I was greatful to have such a great sleeping bag.
Day 2- Today was more hiking!!!!! This day was my favorite day of the trek. Our total hiking time was a little over 8 hours. At the begining of the day we passed a couple of lakes then came the hard part. We had to hike three hours straight up hill, but it was very rewarding for many reasons. First behind us wast he "paramount pictures" mountain, at it was huge and amazing. Everytime I see a paramont pictures movie I will think of this hike. That mountain was rewarding enough but then we came upon more huge mountain with glaciers and a glacier lake under it. If anyone has ever seen a glacier lake they know how beautiful it is. It is a blue-greenish color that is unexplainable. Once we got to the lake we stayed there for a couple hours enjoying the view. It really reminded me of Patagonia. After the lake we had a little hike to our campsite, which was below more mountains!!! I dont think I have ever stayed at a more beautiful campsite. What a great day!!!
Day 3- On the third day we were hiking over the pass. We woke early before the sun came up and started. It was a brutal hike up. Four hours up, in high elevation. It was slow moving but rewarding at the top. We had a 360 degree view of nothing but mountains, glaciars and lakes. After we sat and got our strengh back we headed down, down, and more down. After four hours of going down we finally reached our campsite, with many painful body parts.
Day 4- Today was the easy day. Only three hours back to the car. It was a pretty uneventul trip back. We were able to sleep in until 6:00am, which was a reward for us. Then back to take our first shower of the trip. We had such an amazing time hiking and made some great friends along the way. I also have a new love for mules!

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