Run, walk, clamber, scramble

As the Atacama Crossing draws closer I needed to do a long run with my pack to get used to the weight and to get used to running for a long time in the heat. I decided to go around part of the TNF Ultramaraton de Los Andes 2011 course as I know there's lots of climbing, not too much shade and that it would be some seriously hard work. The route is close to home and usually provides for some spectacular views.

It was a very smoggy day and the city was shrouded in a grey-brown layer of fog that became more visible the higher up I ran - not the usual spectacular city views that I was hoping for! I was quite pleased to be out of that smog and in the clean mountain air. I had a good run and managed to get the time on my legs that I wanted. My pack is starting to feel comfortable and I'm getting used to the heat. A good day out and good preparation for the desert.

Looking over Cerro San Cristobal from the mirador on Carbon.

A smoggy vista from the top of Cerro Carbon.

At the top of Cerro Carbon with the next peak in the background (Manquehue).

The haze of the city appeared the worst from the top of Manquehue.

Next up the peak behind Manquehue heading towards Chicureo.

A view of Chicureo.

Route: Carbon (out of pic on right); Manquehue (1st peak on right); 3rd peak (top left of pic); along the hills to a 4th peak (where the pic is taken from) and then one more climb on the way home.

Map of the run and elevation profile (more details on Strava).