Adventuring Through Huascaran National Park with Friends

A Final Ascent

As our Huascaran adventure draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible journey we've undertaken. Today was a day of both physical challenge and immense reward, a fitting end to our exploration of this stunning national park. It was a day filled with the vibrant blues of glacial lakes, the warmth of newfound friendships, and the satisfaction of pushing ourselves to new heights – literally!

The day began early, as most adventures do, with a hearty breakfast at Ala qué rico in Huaraz. The name promised a delicious start, and it certainly delivered. I savored every bite, knowing we'd need the energy for the demanding hike ahead. Fortified and buzzing with anticipation, my friends and I hopped on the bus, ready to tackle the legendary Lake 69. We made sure to have our entrance tickets for Huascaran National Park ready at Garita Parque Nacional Huascarán.


Explore the stunning landscapes of Garita Parque Nacional Huascarán, where the Andes meet adventure in a breathtaking hiking paradise.

The drive to the trailhead was an experience in itself. The landscape transformed dramatically as we ascended, from lush valleys to rugged, rocky terrain. The air grew crisper, and the towering peaks loomed ever closer, a constant reminder of the Andes' majestic power. I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and respect for the natural world, a feeling that has only deepened throughout this trip.

Finally, we arrived at the trailhead, Cebollapampa, and the adventure truly began. The initial stretch was relatively gentle, a meandering path through a picturesque meadow. Wildflowers dotted the landscape, adding splashes of color to the already stunning scenery. The crisp mountain air filled my lungs, and I felt a surge of energy, ready to conquer the climb. Lina's excitement was contagious, and even Jihad, usually the most reserved of us, couldn't help but crack a smile. Being away from the kids has been hard, but I know they would have loved to see this.

As we continued, the trail began to ascend more steeply. The rocky path wound its way up the mountainside, demanding both physical and mental fortitude. The altitude, a staggering 4,600 meters (15,100 feet) at the lake, began to take its toll. Each step required conscious effort, and I found myself pausing frequently to catch my breath. But with each pause, I was rewarded with increasingly breathtaking views. The valley stretched out behind us, a tapestry of green and brown, framed by the snow-capped peaks. The turquoise waters of smaller lakes shimmered in the distance, beckoning us onward.

The climb may be challenging, but the reward is a view that etches itself into your memory forever.

We pressed on, supporting each other through the tougher sections. There were moments when I questioned my ability to reach the top, when my legs burned and my lungs ached. But the camaraderie of my friends, the sheer beauty of the surroundings, and the thought of that pristine glacial lake kept me going. I remembered all those times in Toronto when I would go hiking at High Park, and how those hikes were preparing me for this exact moment.

The final ascent was the most challenging, a steep, rocky scramble that tested our limits. But then, finally, we crested the ridge, and there it was – Lake 69. The sight that greeted us was simply breathtaking. The lake's water was an otherworldly shade of turquoise blue, so vibrant it almost seemed unreal. Towering glaciers loomed in the background, their icy peaks reflected in the lake's mirror-like surface. The scene was so perfect, so pristine, that it felt like stepping into a postcard.


Explore Lake 69, a breathtaking alpine gem in the Peruvian Andes, known for its stunning turquoise waters and unforgettable hiking trails.

We spent a blissful hour at the lake, soaking in the beauty and reveling in our accomplishment. We took photos, shared stories, and simply sat in comfortable silence, appreciating the moment. The sense of peace and tranquility was profound, a welcome respite from the challenges of the climb. It was a moment I'll cherish forever, a reminder of the power of nature to heal and inspire.

The descent was easier on the lungs but tougher on the knees. We carefully picked our way down the rocky path, taking in the views from a different perspective. We passed other hikers, their faces etched with determination as they made their way up, and offered words of encouragement. There's a special bond among those who share the challenge of a mountain, a sense of mutual respect and understanding.

Back in Huaraz, tired but exhilarated, we celebrated our final day with a well-deserved meal at Callejón restaurante Huaraz. The restaurant’s warm atmosphere and delicious Peruvian cuisine was the perfect way to wind down after our epic hike. I savored every bite of my lunch, reflecting on the incredible experiences of the past eleven days. From the bustling markets of Huaraz to the serene beauty of the glacial lakes, this trip has been a feast for the senses and a balm for the soul.


Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine at Callejón Restaurante in Anta, Huaraz – where every dish tells a story.

For dinner, we decided to go to Wayta - El Chef Andino for a special treat. I wanted to try authentic Andean flavors, and it was indeed a remarkable celebration of Peruvian cuisine. The lomo saltado was delicious, and the presentation was beautiful. It was the perfect way to celebrate the end of our journey.


Discover the essence of Peruvian cuisine at Wayta - El Chef Andino in Huaraz, where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.

No trip to Huaraz is complete without experiencing its craft beer scene, so we ended our night at Craft Beer House. We enjoyed the cozy atmosphere and tasty local brews. It was a great way to relax and reflect on our adventures.


Explore the Craft Beer House in Carhuaz for a delightful selection of local brews and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for relaxation and fun.

As I sit here now, writing these last words, I feel a pang of sadness that our adventure is coming to an end. But I also feel an immense sense of gratitude for the experiences we've shared, the challenges we've overcome, and the beauty we've witnessed. Huascaran National Park has left an indelible mark on my soul, and I know I'll carry its memories with me always.

This trip has been a reminder of the importance of stepping outside of my comfort zone, of embracing the unknown, and of connecting with nature. It's also been a reminder of the power of friendship, of the joy of shared experiences, and of the importance of taking time to appreciate the simple things in life. I will miss my friends when I go back to Toronto. But I know we will always have these memories together.

Tomorrow, we begin our journey back to Lima, and then onward to Toronto. I'm looking forward to seeing Jihad and Lina, to sharing my stories and photos, and to reliving the adventure through their eyes. But a part of me will always remain in Huascaran, among its towering peaks and turquoise lakes, forever grateful for the memories it has given me. Until next time, Peru!