50-52 / Ruta Integral del Pichincha

12/31/25: Glorious NYE weather that, per Tanner’s instructions, required some Unicorn Snot.

Should have learned my lesson on the last Integral - once again started about 2,500 feet lower elevation than the normal trailhead. Given this was the last day of my challenge, I was more than happy to enjoy an extra bit of gain to earn my celebratory beer.

Incredibly grateful for the dozen or so people that donated to my campaign during those final hours on the trail. We made it just shy of $20,000 - my stretch goal. Each time I caught a mobile signal I could see the messages pop up and this put a bit of an extra spring in my step. Thank you.

Today was a leisurely hike, just taking in the scenery and reflecting on the past year. #52 was, fittingly, Rucu Pichincha. And, as always, Steve was there to help me celebrate. I also appreciated spending a bit of time with Jorge, who was just starting his acclimatization hikes for Cotopaxi and Antisana in January. Godspeed, buddy - enjoy the mountains!

Challenge done, the run down Rucu to the teleferiqo felt light and lovely. Headed straight to a NYE fiesta with my family, the perfect cap to the year (though my date drank too much and fell asleep by 11pm).

Time to rest, reflect and come up with a new challenge for 2026…

Summits: Guagua Pichincha (15,696'), Ladrillos (15,148'), Rucu Pichincha (15,413')