The Paso de los Machos in the winter is a notorious blackspot for avalanches. After the mega snowfalls of last winter hard packed snow still remains. This can be very hard and ice in the mornings. A fall here can be very dangerous as the recent spate of accidents has shown. Great care required (take crampons!).

The photo below shows mountain bikers crossing the trail carrying bikes. What is not shown is the steep drop below the trail which ends in a rock field.

Crossing the Paso de los Machos mid-August

More info in spanish at
[www.laopiniondegranada.es]
[www.ideal.es]

Technorati Tags: accident, accidents, de los machos, paso, Sierra Nevada

The Gondola Al Andalus will open from 21:30 to 01:30 on Friday night. The expected time of the greatest concentration of meteor showers. Various packages are offered including dinner under the stars and a trip to the observatory. Prices and details below in spanish but self explanatory.

sky viewing times

Technorati Tags: al andalus, gondola, perseids meteor showers, Sierra Nevada, sierra nevada ski, ski station, sky observation

Today, Wednesday July 28, 2010, I have had stolen an ice axe, crampons and boots in the Pico del Cartujo area at about 12 h. The thieves, because they can not be called anything else, are two men. You may wonder how this all came about. This is the story

I climbed from the ski area to the refugio Elorrieta by the icy slopes below the Tajos de la Virgin (hence the need for ice axe and crampons). Just before reaching the hut I detoured to the Cartujo with the idea of making the entire snow-free ridge to the Cerro de Caballo.  To relieve weight and feel more comfortable I decided to leave my gear hidden behind some rocks to collect later on my return. On the way back everything was gone. I know that they were two men because they are the only two people that I saw from looking back along the ridge in all the time I walked to the Caballo. I had a torrid and somewhat risky time getting back without the equipment and it necessitated a large detour. I have no hope that the gear will be returned to me unless you thieves are out there reading this and feel a tinge of remorse.

Technorati Tags: caballo, incident, Pico del Cartujo, thieves, Trekking

The fire raging in the Sierra Nevada

The visit to the area, located at ‘Peña Caballero-Ventura’ on the hillsides above the town, has allowed Trillo and Miro to get to see at first hand the reforestation efforts that have been made in recent years and the various species planted.

Through its corporate responsibility project ‘Compromiso con los Parques’, Lanjarón undertook in 2009 to carry out reforestation activities over an area of 100 hectares for three years – until 2011. Initially 100,000 trees of species such as oak, oak, maple, cherry, willow, hawthorn have been planted.

Recently, this has been expanded with commitment to more trees by signing a new agreement with the Ministry of Environment, which will allow by the end of 2011 105 hectares of afforestation in the municipality of Lanjarón.

‘Monte Siglo XXI’ is a project of long-term restoration in addition to emergency work performed by the Ministry of Environment in the areas affected by fire in 2005. The aim is to ensure adequate forest cover in the area in which environmental regeneration has been inadequate and the Board has granted a budget of five million euros to this initiative, so as to enhance biodiversity and landscape as well as contribute to sustainable development of rural communities in the Sierra Nevada environment.

The area above Lanjaron in the rio Lanjaron valley

The Lodge

The Lodge represents great value at only 385 euros per week for 4 people.

Special weekend prices for 2010 are:
Only 100 euros for 2 nights ( Fri/Sat or Sat/Sun ).
Only 140 euros for 3 nights ( Fri/Sat/Sun ).

The Lodge can accomodate 4 people, so at 12.50 euros per person per night, its incredible value for money.

Chance sightings of the elusive Ibex and Golden Eagles add magic to walking in this rarely explored and unique landscape. The Lodge offers the experience of a slower pace of life, where the tranquility is almost palpable, and with sunshine for most of the year you have the recipe for a perfect eco holiday.

More details about the Lodge Accommodation, Photos and Information.

As David Edge, the owner says, “As all our lives would be impoverished should such inspiring natural spaces become denuded, we use Holistic Management ® to consistently work towards greater environmental sustainability”.

A week has been far too short. You have one of the most outstanding locations I have ever seen. Thank you for all your kindness, the bread, the fruit, the games and the books to keep the kids happy. I will remember our week-long game of ‘Civilisation’ for a long time! The walks too were breathtaking and varied and a highlight for me. I am desperately hoping you will still be here when I next visit Europe. Martin Louw, New Zealand

Steep snow slopes in the Sierra Nevada

A group of 17 people from Ciudad Real and equipped with crampons, were en route to the Refugio Poqueira. Intended route was Veleta, col de Cariguela, Los Machos, Caldera and Mulhacen. Then down to the refuge via the Rio Mulhacen.

There was an accident when one of the group (Victoriano Corral, 46 years of age)  lost control and slid down a slope of about 20m, in the vicinity of Los Machos. The incident occurred on the morning of Saturday 12th June at 12’15. The group leader alerted the rescue services and they in turn arrived at the scene and evacuated the injured man to Pradollano.

Six people from the group returned to the ski resort and the 10 others continued on to the refuge, to return to Capileira as bad weather is expected.

The condition of the wounded man did not appear to be serious (just fracture or injury to both ankles!).

Technorati Tags: accidents

The bulk of this report is taken from “2 and 3 Day Treks Crossing Spain’s Sierra Nevada“ from Spanish Highs Mountain Guides

They run these multi day treks on demand throughout the year, conditions permitting. Summer crossings are tough and will require a certain resilience at times. Winter trips are strictly the preserve of the mountaineer used to axe and crampon use. The notes below will help you to decide which trip and when to come. All trips require bivouac gear or tents to be carried as camping locations can vary depending on conditions, party etc. Unguarded huts may be utilised. Please contact them direct for an update on current mountain conditions and any questions you may have.

They have tried and tested 6 of the best multi day traverses around. They try to avoid Mulhacen and Veleta (as highest is not always best?) and show you the best of the rest. The following are described below:

1. Ski Centre, Elorietta, Tajos los Machos to Puente Palo (2 day) TOUGH
2. Ski Centre, Cartujo, Caballo to Lanjaron (2 day) VERY TOUGH
3. Ski Centre, Cerro los Machos to Capileira (2 day) TOUGH
4. Ventura Trailhead, Caballo, Cartujo to Ski Centre (2 day) CHALLENGING
5. Alcazaba and Puntal de Vacares (3 day) VERY TOUGH
6. The Remote Northern Peaks (3 day) VERY TOUGH

Map and Access

Click the thumbnail right and you will get a enlarged map of the Sierras with the normal access points noted. The following is the starting height of each access point involved in the “Sierra Nevada Crossing” treks:

Ski Centre 2500m
Trailhead Guejar Sierra 1100m
Lanjaron 650m
Ventura Trailhead 2100m
Puente Palo 1750m
Capileira 1500m
Hoya del Portillo 2150m
Trevelez 1600m

When planning a trip they normally try to start as high as possible and that way you can get into the high mountains quicker and easier. For this reason most trips start at the Ski Centre, Hoya del Portillo or Ventura Trailhead

The “Sierra Nevada Crossing” treks

The map on the right outlines the normally used routes across the mountain range. Spanish Highs are flexible as to clients wishes and aspirations, provided mountain conditions allow. Underfoot conditions can greatly vary the length/time and overnight stopping points. However, therein lies the adventure and excitement of these treks. They always have options available for early extraction via 4WD vehicles should this be necessary.

It is better to do north to south crossings starting from the Ski Centre at Pradollano.

South to north crossings are normally undertaken from the Ventura Trailhead or Hoya del Portillo.

Whilst Mulhacen and Veleta may be more popular, these crossings try to utilise the quiet and more remote peaks and passes.

Below are examples of some of the more popular treks of both 2 and 3 day duration. Spanish Highs can help with gear and equipment selection and supply. Also have a look through our Latest Trip Reports where you will find examples.

Ski Centre to Puente Palo (2 day)

Outline: Pass via ski terrain, scrambling ridge or mountain flank to unguarded Elorrieta hut (Veleta option). Overnight. Ridge to Tajos de los Machos. Down eastern bowl, traverse to Cebollar ruins, zig zag descent, river crossing, forest trail to pickup.

Time and ascent (ideal summer conditions): Day 1 – 4 hrs (750m ascent), (Scramble 6 hrs/900m ascent). Day 2 – 6 hrs (200m ascent/1600m descent).

Major peaks covered: Tajos de la Virgen 3191m, Tajos de los Machos 3085m, Cerrillo Redondo 3055m

Notes: Varied terrain specially on Day 2. Elorrieta best overnight viewpoint in the Sierras.

Seasonal notes: The mountain flank to the Elorietta may not be possible under snow as it is an avalanche blackspot. Alternative ascent of Pico del Cartujo will add 3hrs and 300m ascent. Scramble becomes winter graded climb.

Have a look at the Detailed Trip Report for an example of this crossing.

Options: The long south ridge from Cerrillo Redondo is slightly quicker and easier to reach Puente Palo. Possible descent to Lanjaron via Tello.

Ski Centre to Lanjaron (2 day)

Outline: Pass via ski terrain, scrambling ridge or mountain flank, pass Elorrieta hut. Climb Pico del Cartujo. Wild camp near Tajos Altos. Ridge over cerro de Caballo, down to Ventura ruins, Tello, Lanjaron

Time and ascent (ideal summer conditions): Day 1 – 7 hrs (1000m ascent), (Scramble 8 hrs/1100m ascent). Day 2 – 7 hrs (300m ascent/2400m descent!).

Major peaks covered: Pico del Cartujo 3152m, Tajos Altos 2985m, Cerro de Caballo 3005m

Notes: Great western ridge of the Sierra Nevada. Long and distant, expansive views. Tough descent down to the Alpujarran town of Lanjaron.

Seasonal notes: The mountain flank to the Elorietta may not be possible under snow as it is an avalanche blackspot. Alternative ascent of Pico del Cartujo NW ridge will add 2hrs and 100m ascent. Easy winter walking follows.

Options: An easier return down the Rio Lanjaron to Tello or a 4WD pickup at the Ventura trailhead.

Ski Centre to Capileira (2 day)

Outline: Los Posciciones entry into Corral del Veleta, glacial valley below imposing cliffs, remote peak of Cerro de los Machos, rocky descent, secluded upper Rio Chico. Wild camp. Descent of Rio Chico, traverse to Loma Pua and Cebedilla, drop down to Capileira.

Time and ascent (ideal summer conditions): Day 1 – 6 hrs (1000m ascent). Day 2 – 6 hrs (200m ascent/1500m descent).

Major peaks covered: Cerro de los Machos 3329m

Notes: High peaks to lush green valleys and gorges

Seasonal notes: Not normally possible in winter due to exposed avalanche loaded slopes and difficult terrain of alpine nature.

Options: Longer return after traversing over Loma Pelada 3181m and Puntal de Caldera 3223m camping by the Laguna del Caldera.

Ventura Trailhead to Ski Centre (2 day)

Outline: High trailhead, gentle ascent to Cerro de Caballo via it’s laguna, ridge to Tajos Altos. Wild camp. Pico del Cartujo and drop down via the small lakes of Lagunillas

Time and ascent (ideal summer conditions): Day 1 – 6 hrs (1000m ascent). Day 2 – 5 hrs (300m ascent/700m descent).

Major peaks covered: Cerro de Caballo 3005m, Tajos Altos 2985m, Pico del Cartujo 3152m

Notes: The western ridges of the Sierra Nevada. Good ridge walking, remote mountain lakes and easier descent than others on this page.

Seasonal notes: Generally easy winter walking in good snow conditions. The mountain flank to the Elorietta may not be possible under snow as it is an avalanche blackspot. Alternative descent of Pico del Cartujo NW ridge recommended.

Options: Instead of the high ridge we can take the slightly easier Verada Cortado. This traverses impressive rock scenery and beautiful lakeside camping locations.

Hoya del Portillo to Guejar Sierra (3 day) via Alcazaba and Puntal de Vacares

Outline: Forest trailhead, gentle ascent to Mirador de Trevelez. Contour east to Siete Lagunas. Wild camp. Alcazaba, Puntal de Vacares, Laguna de Vacares. Wild camp. Return down Loma del Calvario to Verada de Estrella and trailhead.

Time and ascent (ideal summer conditions): Day 1 – 6 hrs (1000m ascent). Day 2 – 7 hrs (700m ascent). Day 3 – 5 hrs (2200m descent).

Major peaks covered: Alcazaba 3371m, Puntal de El Goteron 3067m, Puntal de las Calderetas 3066m, Puntal de Vacares 3136m

Notes: Long remote trek over high and at times difficult peaks. Best camping spots in the Sierras. Long descent.

Seasonal notes: A major undertaking. Only recommended for fit and experienced under good snow and ice conditions.

More information can be found at Siete Lagunas, Alcazaba and Puntal de Vacares 3 day trip report.

The Remote Northern Peaks

Outline: Verada de Estrella, Loma del Calvario, ascend to Pena Partida unguarded. Overnight. Ridge walk of the northern peaks to Laguna de Vacares. Wild camp. Puntal de Vacares and return down Loma del calvario to Verada de Estrella and trailhead.

Time and ascent (ideal summer conditions): Day 1 – 6 hrs (1100m ascent). Day 2 – 7 hrs (1100m ascent). Day 3 – 5 hrs (2200m descent).

Major peaks covered: Puntal de los Cuartos 3158m, Atalaya 3135m, Pico del Cuervo 3144m, Puntal de Vacares 3136m

Notes: Great circuit of the northern peaks. The Pena Partida is one of the least visited huts in the Sierras. Great ridge round on day 2. Long descent day 3.

Seasonal notes: Relatively straightforward, if long, winter expedition.

More information can be found on the Trip Report Northern Sierra Nevada.

The Coordinator of Emergency Services received a call at 8.25 am in the morning when he was alerted to the accident. The emergency Services and Mountain Rescue and Intervention (Sereim) de la Guardia Civil de Granada were mobilised and went to the scene of the accident where the man was found dead.

At the moment the huge amount of snow over the winter has left wide deep crevasses. Most unusual for the Sierra Nevada. The Coral de Veleta is difficult to access so a helicopter also responded. The man had already died when the rescue services got to the scene and recovered the body which as taken to Granada, where an autopsy will be preformed to determine the specific causes of death.

Technorati Tags: accidents

Marked hiking trails are available that are suitable for all levels from 1 to 2 hours duration. The gondola and chair have been adapted to carry bicycles and this give you plenty of options for a long descent return.

Please also note that a lot of snow still exists in the area and if venturing away from marked trails then suitable planning and equipment must be taken. See our trip report at http://www.sierra-nevada-news.com/2010/06/crossing-the-sierra-nevada-in-full-winter-conditions-in-june/ if you are not convinced! If you need help or advice in planning your trip beyond the limits of the ski centre then we would be pleased to help. We can also provide you with up to date current conditions.

Times:
Al-Andalus gondola: open to public: 9:00 pm. Last upload: 17:00 hours. Last descent: 17:15
Chairlift Veleta II: open to public: 9:15 am. Last upload: 16:45 hours. Last descent: 17:00

Prices:
Adult € 10.00, Senior / Child € 5.00, Disabled € 5.00,  Children 5 years € 2.50
FAMILY (1 adult + 1 child or more), each adult € 10.00, each child or child under 5 years € 2.50
GROUPS Group 15-24 persons € 6.50, Group from 25 people € 5.00
One-way - € 6.50
Level of base: 2,100 m. Arrival: 2,800 m

Technorati Tags: ski lifts, summer opening

Huayna Potosi

Itinerary:
Week 1. Acclimatisation in and around La Paz trekking around Lake Titicata and low foothills
Week 2. Set up base camp in Khara Kota valley.Training climbs on peaks of about 5500m
Week 3. More difficult climbs on Pequeno Alpamayo or Huayna Potosi (6088m) via either the normal route (PD+) or the Ruta de los Franceses (AD+) if in condition. Also possibly Illimani (6438m PD/AD).

Our good friend, mountaineer and skier, Bob Redwood, died recently due to brain tumours of a type known as “Glioblastoma Multiforme” the most common and aggresive type. This has led us to this fundraising effort. The aim is to raise awareness and funds for the Brain Tumour Research Campaign. Brain tumours affect people of all ages. There is a great need for a better understanding of what causes them, how the brain reacts to them and how they behave – and an even greater need for better and more effective treatments.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving. They never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they will send your money directly to the charity and make sure Gift Aid is reclaimed on every eligible donation by a UK taxpayer. So its the most efficient way to donate – we raise more, whilst saving time and cutting costs for the charity.

So please dig deep and donate now at http://www.justgiving.com/spanishhighs.

More information about Glioblastoma Multiforme

You can also copy the following widget onto your own blog or website to help. Many thanks.

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