South America, Argentine and Chilean Patagonia, Cuerno Norte, East Face, Fist Full of Dollars

Publication Year: 1996.

Cuerno Norte, East Face, Fist Full of Dollars. British climbers Louise Thomas, Mike Turner, Martin Doyle and Ollie Sanders made the first ascent of the 800-meter east face, an overhanging face that yielded 20 pitches at a grade of up to A3+. Beginning on December 21, the team pushed their route for a total of 16 days, summitting onto the shale bands of the tower January 9. They reported consistently demanding aid climbing and much loose rock. It was the first climb to be achieved from the Pingo Valley. The route name refers to the peak fee imposed on climbers by Chilean park authorities. (High Mountain Sports July 1995.)