From - Sun Nov 21 11:38:44 1999
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From: Vladimir Smirnov and Irina Libova <irka@thecia.net>
Newsgroups: rec.climbing,rec.backcountry
Subject: Re: Pico de Orizaba question
Date: Fri, 19 Nov 1999 21:44:38 -0500
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Hi Rodulfo,
Thanks for the reply.

> Hacienda Xametla is your most likely starting point. Try to hire mules
> to take you up to 4,000m (1 day, 1st camp).

I am still waiting for the topo maps to arrive, and the book I have
(Mexico's volcanoes by R.J.Secor) does not mention this place. Is it on
the same road as Cuiyahapa and Potrero Nuevo? at what altitude is it?

> > then hike to North Glaciers via Chichimeco Ridge, climb Mt.Orizaba
> > via the standard route
> 
> What a waste! If you are climbing Chichimeco, either keep going
> up on the glacier parallel to the normal route or, even better, do a
> little traverse to the left and climb the East glacier (40-45 deg angle,
> one very minor 55 deg step). The views are spectacular from this side.

I am keeping in mind this route too, but it may turn out that my friends
are not quite technically fit for 55 degree ice. We'll try to do it, but
if it doesn't work, we'll try the standard route. Btw, now much of the
distance from 4800 m to the summit is 40-45 deg?

> From
> Hidalgo you may get a raid to Tlachichuca or even to the main highway.

Makes sense.

> I don't believe you'll get too far this day. Let's say that you get to
> Cosco.

Why so? Is there a problem getting a ride up? 

> > Dec.28. Summit
> 
> Camp in summit?

:)

> You can summit and be in Hidalgo or Tlachichuca the same
> day.

Good news! I was afraid we don't have enough slack days and that the
Chichimeco Ridge is longer than 1-2 days hike.

Thanks again,
- Smirnov