Day 8. Sambuya Pass
Summary: With all of the technical terrain behind you, this final day of the Alpine Circuit offers a mellow and scenic conclusion, ascending over a pass and an easy descent to the road. I recommend combining this day with the drive from Rondoy to Huaraz.
Elevation Gain: 700m Elevation Loss: 700m Distance: 9km
Ascent: Cross to the north side of the valley the follow a major trail E past Solteracocha. The trail then turns uphill, switchbacking into the alpine, with excellent views of Jirishanca and Yerupaja behind. Reach Sambuya Pass (4750m) and Rondoy Pass (4735m) and bid farewell to the mountains of the Huayhuash.
Descent: The trail makes a high, descending traverse of the S slope of the Rondoy Valley, all the way to the homestead of Rondoy, where your ride is (hopefully) waiting for you. Alternatively, follow the ridge crest north of Rondoy Pass over loose 4th class terrain, past an ancient forest, and descend grass slopes to Rondoy (gpx).
Summary: With all of the technical terrain behind you, this final day of the Alpine Circuit offers a mellow and scenic conclusion, ascending over a pass and an easy descent to the road. I recommend combining this day with the drive from Rondoy to Huaraz.
Elevation Gain: 700m Elevation Loss: 700m Distance: 9km
Ascent: Cross to the north side of the valley the follow a major trail E past Solteracocha. The trail then turns uphill, switchbacking into the alpine, with excellent views of Jirishanca and Yerupaja behind. Reach Sambuya Pass (4750m) and Rondoy Pass (4735m) and bid farewell to the mountains of the Huayhuash.
Descent: The trail makes a high, descending traverse of the S slope of the Rondoy Valley, all the way to the homestead of Rondoy, where your ride is (hopefully) waiting for you. Alternatively, follow the ridge crest north of Rondoy Pass over loose 4th class terrain, past an ancient forest, and descend grass slopes to Rondoy (gpx).
Approaching Sambuya Pass with Yerupaja and Yerupaja Chico behind.
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Descending to Rondoy. Ninashanca behind.
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Final descent to Rondoy.
scrambling on the optional alternative high route descent from Rondoy Pass to Rondoy (road)
