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About this place
A famous dormant Volcano is Mexico's 3rd highest peak and the 7th highest in North America at 17,159ft. The mountain’s name means ‘White Woman’ in an Aztec language. From a distance the mountain’s profile resembles a sleeping woman, sometimes seen blanketed white with snow.
Beginning at the Izta Popo National Park entrance, obtain your permit and follow the bumpy road as it winds towards La Joya. This is the base camp area at 13,000ft that offers plenty of areas to set up your tent. Take your time and acclimate here to ensure a successful summit bid.
An alpine start offers extra time on La Arista del Sol (The Ridge of The Sun) route. This route follows along the ridgeline starting with the feet, knees, stomach and finally breasts - the highest point.
At 16,000ft you'll see an overnight hut commonly used to break the route up into 2 days. Nearing 16,500ft you'll find an old hut, long destroyed by weather, and another false summit leading to the snowfield. This uncravassed glacier offers little challenge with crampons.
The final summit bid is a steep section with some class 2 scrambling. At the top you'll find an amazing view of a huge area.
Leave No Trace
