South America, Bolivia, Cordillera Apolobamba, Huayna Potosí, West Face

Publication Year: 1999.

Huayna Potosí, West Face. The increasingly popular 1000-meter West Face of Huayna Potosí (6088m) had very few ascents this year due to poor conditions. Spaniard Pere Vilarasau and Andorran Frank Van Herreweghe climbed the American Route (later named Vía de Lyons by French climbers unaware of the previous ascent) on July 7 in 11 hours. They reported IV+/V rock to access the face, which was covered in black ice the whole way up with sections up to 75°. Normally, the route is no more than 55-65°.

Yossi Brain, United Kingdom