Why people get into difficulties in the Sierra Nevada

[El Perro Negro]

Just came down from Puntal de Vacares Saturday. On the Verada de Estrella path leading to our waiting lift we met 3 young american girls. This was about 1pm in the afternoon. They had "fashion" rucksacks on their backs and lightweight trainers.

The leader asked me "How far away is Mulhacen?". I replied "2 days!"

Astounded they said they thought it was only a few hours. I asked them to get their map out so I could show them. They hadn't got one.

They decided to proceed anyway, despite my warnings. Lets hope they arrived at the Cucharacha (the Verada de Estrella was closed for repair work anyway), saw Mulhacen looming some 2000m above them and still at least a days walk away, and decided to return.

Not a major problem in summer but in changeable spring and autumn conditions they could easily get into trouble.

Respect for the mountains!