Welcome to our "Expedition Hope" Aconcagua Climb

Truly the “Roof of the Americas,” Cerro Aconcagua, at 22,834 ft. (6,959 meters) is not only the highest mountain in South America, but also the highest peak outside of Asia. The name Aconcagua is most likely a derivative of the Incan words “Akon Cahuak,” meaning Stone Sentinel. Located on the Chilean- Argentine border, it is easily accessed through the Argentine city of Mendoza.

Aconcagua was first climbed in 1897 by Matthias Zurbriggen, a Swiss mountain guide. The Zurbriggen route (Normal Route), which climbs the peak by way of the Horcones Valley from the northwest, has become the most popular route of ascent. A second, non-technical route known as the “Standard” or “Falso de Polacos” (False Polish- so named for its proximity to the Polish Glacier) route, has grown in popularity over the years. This route approaches the mountain from the northeast, via the Vacas Valley. These two routes see the vast majority of climbers on the mountain, and though they are not difficult from a technical climbing aspect, the extreme combination of high altitude, winds, and cold temperature make them a challenge for any mountaineer.

In mid-January, 2009, a team of climbers from the US will meet in the beautiful small city of Mendoza to attempt a route up the Northeast Face of Aconcagua. The team members include guides Todd Rutledge and Ali Criscitiello and team members:

Tom Ceglia from Colorado
Joe Lawson from Indiana
Tom Henson from Colorado

Joe Lawson climbs for his Expedition Hope, a program to raise awareness, funds and help erase the stigma of depression through recognition generated by the rare accomplishment of climbing the Seven Summits, the highest mountain on each continent. Please visit Joe's site by clicking on the previous link or on the link to the left of this page.

Tom Ceglia has been climbing in support of the POW/MIA cause and is carrying their flag to the summit. Being a Vietnam War veteran, this is a cause very close to his heart. Hopefully, we'll be able to post an image of that flag waving above everything in the southern and western hemispheres.

Ali Criscitello has been climbing in support of The Silent Spring Institute, which builds on a unique partnership of scientists, physicians, public health advocates, and community activists to identify and break the links between the environment and women’s health, especially breast cancer.

We wish all the climbers best of luck and a safe journey, as they attempt this challenging ascent.

Enjoy the dispatches!