Laguna 69 - Huaraz Peru

---

Today was one of the best day hikes ever. Changed to do Laguna 69 as there were some hikers headed there. You have to travel 3 hours by transport first and then are dropped off at about 10,000 feet. You have to hike it from there about 6-7 miles one way but the reward is incredible. This is a clear blue green lake nestled at about 15,000 feet +. There are a few (very few) level places on the trail and the rest is zigzagging up some steep terrain. It takes about 4 hours up, two back and then the return ride which of course does not leave when you get there. Finally back in Huaraz and beat. Will post more tomorrow as I am doing a short trek just to keep working towards climatization. Today was a good step with no problems outside of some shortness of breath.

---

Photos

From the bus
this is a view from the bus early in the morning on the way down. just getting light

Another shot from the bus
Getting closer to the park entrance

Starting Point
This is the road/path that you start from

Starting Point View
This is what you see from the bottom. The lake is at the base of the glacier you see to the left

Arrival Road
This is the road to the starting point

Falls
These falls are visible as you start to ascend

Falls - 1
Different view of the falls as you climb

Inca Walls
These ruins were along the trail we used

Native Flower
This grows in the parama and is native to Peru. I have to get more information

Laguna 69
The pictures do not do it justice.

Laguna 69 - 1
Another shot of the lake trying to capture the reflections

Laguna 69 - 2
Yet another shot of the lake

Laguna 69 - 3
Another lake shot - after several hours of climbing you can't have too many

Clouds
While at the lake you are so high it looks as if you could touch these clouds as they pass the two mountains you are in between

Fellow Hikers
This was the guide and the German couple I trekked with (Oliver and Ziggy)

Pete better be ready
I need a haircut and shave

Comments

[Karen M]

looking
a little grizzled

[Dylan]

Did you
fall down?

[Tonia]

LOL
You are too much! I'm glad to see you enjoying your vacation. Awesome pics too! Stay safe on your travels ;)