Cotopaxi 5879 Meters

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    Main Climbing Route: Climbing Cotopaxi is often like attending a crowded
 party. You can expect lots of people in the refugio and just as many people
 climbing the standard route. The route itself is often a trench so that following the
 route can be a rather mindless experience. Nevertheless, the beauty of this
 mountain remains intact and like any glaciated mountain this one must be treated
 with caution and respect. Ropes, axes, crampons, etc are necessary despite the
 rather nonchalant descriptions in many guidebooks. From the main parking lot
 ascend the clearly marked trail to the refugio, a hike of about 30 minutes
 depending on your condition. From the refugio, follow the well-marked scree
 slope to the right of the refugio and up towards the glacier. From the refugio to
 the glacier is approximately an hour's hike. Once on the glacier head south and
 up towards the big black rock known as Yanasacha seen in the photo above.
 Traverse right of Yanasacha and angle up to the right. On your left will find a
 steep snow ramp (40 - 50 degrees) heading up to a snow ledge (filled
 bergschrund). At the ledge traverse left 100 feet to its end and find a metal
 ladder heading up to a steep snow pitch. This is exposed so be careful. From
 here continue to summit.

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