Mina Escondida is a climb of 80.8 kilometers (hors catégorie). Mina Escondida tops out at 3,166 m above sea level. It is located in Antofagasta, Región de Antofagasta, Chile. The average gradient is 2.8% with a maximum of 9.8%. The climb has 2277 meters of elevation gain.
Difficulty breakdown: This 80.8 km climb is a pure test of endurance. The average gradient of 2.8% is deceptive. The first third (0-30 km) is very steady at 1-2%, acting as a long warm-up. The difficulty then builds gradually, with gradients of 5-6% from km 50, followed by a very demanding stretch at 7-8% between km 63 and 70. The final kilometres hold a sustained 5-7%.
Pacing advice:
1. Pace yourself absolutely on the first section. The first 30 km at low gradient are crucial for saving your legs, and don't let the easy terrain fool you.
2. Prepare for the final wall. The steepest section (km 63-70 at 7-8%) requires keeping some energy and fuel in the tank so you don't blow up when you get there.
3. Break the climb into blocks. Mentally split the ascent into three parts: the long approach (0-50 km), the steeper core (50-70 km), and the demanding finale (70-80.8 km).
80.8 km • 2277 m D+
VAM: average climbing speed, based on elevation gain
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