Pichincha Continued

Pichincha Volcano

Qutio, Ecuador

There is more to the story than just riding the Teleferico. After disembarking, I joined a friendly French couple on the grueling climb to higher ground. One can go all the way to the top of Pichincha, the volcano, but it takes training. This was only my 3^rd  day in Ecuador, and it really does take time for your body to acclimate to the altitude. I was happily surprised that I kept up as well as I did. It was an amazing experience and quite a challenge. After hiking for a short while it began to hail! Imagine walking on a ridge, through an intensely heavy downpour of pinky nail sized hail, surrounded by clouds on all sides. We continued hiking under those conditions for a long time. I was mostly glad that I was with such a determined pair. When we began the trek, there was no hail on the ground. By the time the hail stopped, it was several inches deep. I reached an altitude of 13,648 feet before heading back. As I began the much easier descent, the hail stopped and the clouds rapidly began to clear. It was a dramatic and breathtaking change! I could see the entire city! It was both a view and a challenge of fortitude that I hope to remember always.

Perspective

Almost at the top of the teleferico

Trailhead

Proof of the friendly French couple

Hailing like nobody's business

It got much deeper than this

Proof of 4,160 meters high = 13,648 feet

On the way back, the clouds began to clear

The trail

If I got married at this church one day would you come?

Pictures do not do the view justice