Summit Pico de Orizaba

From the Piedra Grande base camp at 14,025ft an alpine start is recommended. Beginning at 2am will offer the best weather near the summit. Begin by hiking along the concrete aqueduct above the hut. The first 1,500ft of elevation gain is a steep, rocky slope. Be careful for rockfall and slipping in the soft areas. Following the right side of the gulley, you'll zig-zag and gain elevation quickly.

At 15,580ft the "Labyrinth" begins. This section, while not as steep, offers significant challenges in the way of route-finding. Depending on snow condition this section can be dry rock, frozen snow or pure ice. Be careful as you ascend to the top of the gully at 16,400ft.

The final challenge is the Jamapa Glacier. This 2,000ft elevation gain section is long and steep. Donning crampons and ice axe, you follow a direct path up the western slope of the glacier. Then turning towards the summit you head up approximately 50 degree slopes to the crater rim.

Once on the summit, enjoy the uninterrupted views of a huge part of the country - from central Mexico all the way to the gulf. You're standing on the roof of Mexico.