Direct route via Agua Larga.
I suggested to Felipe that we attempt to set the FKT via the most direct route, through Yerba Loca from Agua Larga, a shorter but very steep, technical route with a lot of climbing that I always look forward to opening it. A route that apparently had never been done before and which, in my opinion, is the most aesthetic and physical.
It is a 6 km climb with 1,756 meters of elevation gain, without any flat sections, granite rock, boulders, and talus field (photo 2)
The route starts at Totem 1(photo 1) in Villa Paulina, which takes you to the Glaciar La Paloma trail. You run approximately 2.5 kilometers to the Agua Larga stream (marked with a sign), then 200 meters further north, the actual ascent begins, running along the west face of the mountain, directly to its summit. As you go through a canyon and constant talus field, there is no visible trail, you just have to climb directly east, slightly inclined to the north. The summit is clearly marked by a flag, a rock landmark, and a summit box (photo 3 and 4).
We descended via the same route, with a few small variations due to the type of terrain of loose rock. For me, it was a perfect route in terms of both physical challenge and scenery, perfect for an FKT, and Felipe was the perfect partner.
If you want to try this mountain and this route, don't forget to notify the Yerba Loca Park administration and comply with all protocols to preserve this sanctuary.