Climbers Angelina di Prinzio from Argentina, Paloma Farkas from California, and Catalina Unwin from Chile have established a new route on the West Face of 3,300m Cerro Steffen in the Southern Patagonian Ice Field.
The route, which they named Sincronia, is 900m long with difficulties graded WI4, M4, and slopes up to 60°. It marks the second-known ascent of the peak and the first on its West Face.
The three climbers began planning the trip a year ago. They chose Cerro Steffen based on limited photos, historical references, and a 1965 first-ascent report.
The new route on Cerro Steffen. Photo: The climbers’ Instagram
Logistics included virtual meetings across three countries, route planning with minimal data, and arrangements to cross Lake O’Higgins.
The ascent, carried out during a suitable weather window, was supported by grants from Grit & Rock, the NOLS Rothberg-Birdwhistell Exploration Fund, and members of Argentina’s guiding community.
