San Pedro, Stratovolcano in El Loa Province, Chile
San Pedro is a stratovolcano in Chile's high Andes that rises to 6,145 meters and features two distinct cones built through separate geological phases. The two structures were formed at different times and together create the mountain's characteristic profile.
The older cone collapsed at some point in the mountain's early development, sending debris across the western plain below. This collapse event shaped the volcano's geology and left visible traces on the landscape.
Local communities view this mountain as a sacred part of their territory and incorporate it into seasonal gatherings and everyday traditions. The peak holds deep meaning in stories passed down through families living in the surrounding valleys.
Old paths created by former sulfur miners lead toward the summit and serve as useful trail markers for climbers. Route 21 circles the northern and western sides of the mountain but does not provide direct access to the peak.
The younger cone erupted four separate times, each producing different types of lava such as andesite and dacite that stacked in distinct layers. This multi-phase eruption pattern is uncommon and makes the mountain's internal structure geologically complex.
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