SAN CARLOS DE BARILOCHE. – Leaving aside the specifics of the case, the episode that led to the downfall of the… Chef Christian Petersen of the Lanín volcano (3776 m.a.s.l.), in Neuquenafter suffering “multi-organ failure”, focused on the requirements of hiking to the summit of this mountain and the specifics of the climb.
The traditional route of advancement Lanin volcano (via the Northern Route) begins in the Río Turbio section, near the Tromen Information Center, in the central area of the Lanín National Park, about 70 km from Junín de los Andes. This is the most used route and the one with the most traffic at this time of year. To start, you’ll cross a Lenga forest on a well-marked trail that ends at the foot of the volcano. From there, climbers must follow the poles that lead to the start of the route called “Herringbone.”
The slope then begins to gradually climb until you reach the diversion. From there you must continue to the right and follow the indications on the existing signs in the sector to reach the “mule track”.
Along this route, marked with posts, painted stones and signs, you reach the New Military Refuge (RIM). In this area, at 2,315 meters above sea level, there are domes (bedrooms and dining domes with kitchen services) that offer those who stay there more comfort to make the trek to the summit very early the next day. From there, the path continues to the right to the Club Andino Junín de los Andes (CAJA) refuge, following the instructions on the signs and signs.
From the protected area they emphasize that in order to climb to the summit it is important to have previous knowledge and experience with various ice movement techniques. Otherwise, it is mandatory to carry out the climb with a guide authorized by the Lanín National Park.
Registration for the climb to the volcano is mandatory and free and takes place online. The daily visitor capacity on the mountain is 60 people (including shelters and tents).
consulted by THE NATIONSome mountain guides who work in Lanín agree that one of the most important requirements for climbing is equipment. Mandatory items for climbing the North Face in summer include: a group first aid kit (with bandages, gauze and bandages), a headlamp with a spare battery, communication equipment with an additional battery for every 5 people (VHF common in national parks) and crampons with a fastening system in good condition. Crampons are spiked metal devices that attach to hiking boots to provide grip and traction on slippery terrain such as hard snow or ice.
It is also recommended to carry a pickaxe (it must be suitable for walking, ideal for carving steps on hard surfaces and breaking a fall, it must also be long enough to be used as a walking stick), a helmet (it must be approved for mountaineering and the straps must be in good condition), trekking poles (recommended for walking, they can be fixed or telescopic), an insulating mat, a sleeping bag, mountain boots, a thermal shirt and shoes, fleece, Gloves, a mountain jacket (synthetic fabric, waterproof and breathable), sunglasses, etc. It is mandatory to carry goggles, trekking trousers, ski or mountain trousers and at least two liters of water per person.
It is also recommended to wear a wool or synthetic hat (that covers the ears), gaiters, sunscreen and two carabiners with clasps. “Be very careful during the climb. Do not rush or run. Always walk along the path without cutting off. If possible, start hydrating 24 hours before the start of the route and eat frequently and in small portions during the hike,” they add from Lanín National Park. In addition to the equipment, people must also demonstrate suitability and experience in the mountains; responsibility for the assessment lies with the protected area officers. If you have no experience, it is always recommended to use the services of a mountain guide authorized by the national park.
Another mountain guide, who usually climbs Lanín several times a year with different groups, warns that it is also important to assess the conditions of the mountain: “Sometimes it is not that difficult, but currently the climb is very difficult due to the lack of snow. You have to walk along a rocky ridge from 3,200 meters above sea level to 3,500 meters above sea level. And on the top there is now ice called mountain glass or crystal ice.” He added: “From 3,200 meters above sea level there is also a lot of rocky terrain as you climb. This is the part with the greatest gradient, about 40°.”
Even if people with little mountain experience have managed to reach the summit, the hike to Lanín is actually demanding and requires a good physical effort, since the effort is moderate.
Christian Petersen suffered a decompensation a few days ago while climbing Lanín. Today he is admitted to the intensive care unit of the Ramón Carrillo Hospital in San Martín de los Andes and is suffering, according to the medical report Multi-organ failure.
As the Neuquén Provincial Ministry of Health reported yesterday afternoon, Petersen was referred from the Junín de los Andes Hospital and “His current condition is cautious, with multiple organs failing and ongoing specialist care required.“.
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