Last weekend, French mountaineer Mael Le Lagadec completed an ascent carrying 35 kilos to the summit of Aneto. He was not carrying provisions or camping gear, but a walnut cross of his own carving. The initiative seeks to return the symbol to 3,404 meters, one month after the original aluminum cross, weighing 100 kilos and nearly 75 years old, was torn down and vandalized.
Walnut as a technical material: resistance compared to the lost aluminum 🪵
Le Lagadec opted for walnut, a dense and durable wood that offers good weather resistance without the weight of the original aluminum. At 35 kilos, the new structure reduces the load by 65% compared to the previous one, which facilitated transport in adverse mountain conditions. The mountaineer's manual carving adapted the piece to withstand strong winds and high mountain corrosion, although the wood will require periodic maintenance to prevent degradation from moisture and ice.
Aneto gets its ornament back: now it just needs to last longer than a selfie 😅
After weeks of a barren summit, the peak of Aneto once again has its characteristic accessory. However, the new model is made of solid wood, just in case some lunatic decides to repeat the trick of tearing down the previous one. At least, if someone tries to take it away, they will sweat buckets dragging 35 kilos downhill. The one who placed it already proved it is easier to carry it up than to steal it.