South America, Argentina, Mercedario, Central Andes

Publication Year: 1968.

Mercedario, Central Andes. Five Chileans attempted Mercedario (21,884 feet) but hindered by deep snow, they made slow progress. On February 10 only two of the group, Julián Bilbao and Gastón Muga, reached the top. They had used the western approach, entering from Chile by the Pelambres Pass and connecting with the Polish route of 1934 in the last 4000 feet. This is thought to be the 14th ascent of the mountain.

Hugo VÁsquez L., Asociación Universitaria de Andinismo, Chile