K2 GGL trekking: Goro II - Concordia

The easiest day on the Baltoro Glacier is undoubtedly the route from Goro II to Concordia, where the moraines have completely disappeared, and scree is kept to a minimum. Due to the ascent to 4500 meters, logically, more ice is visible along the way, making this day a pleasant stroll to the place you truly want to be: Concordia.

On certain days during this trek, there are hardly any discernible hiking trails, and it's the cairns that guide you in the right direction (when the guide is nowhere to be found), but there's also an alternative. There is an immensely long cable that passes by various camps, providing an indication of the route (although in this wireless era, the cable no longer serves its original purpose as a communication link between camps), and parts of it have disappeared. However, for the trek to Concordia, it doesn't matter much because the path is self-evident.

Similar to the journey to Goro II, it's primarily gravel lining the ground, meaning granular stones and few to no rocks. Icebergs, on the other hand, seem to become increasingly prominent. It's a peculiar sight to witness these large chunks of ice amidst the gravel, but it adds an extra touch to this trek. This walk spans thirteen kilometers but is relatively quick to complete due to the more forgiving terrain. There is, however, one section where I slipped—a steep incline upon arriving in Concordia. Even with four feet, it proves challenging, as mules and horses that follow struggle to ascend on this stretch.

Concordia is, in fact, one of the reasons why someone would undertake the K2 and Gondogoro La trek. On this plateau, a staggering convergence of five glaciers occurs, providing an unparalleled view of renowned peaks such as K2 and Broad Peak, as well as lesser-known ones like Chogolisa, Crystal Peak, and Marble Peak. It is nothing short of an amphitheater showcasing the most spectacular panorama of mountains, and on clear days, the eyes are treated to a fantastic display of the world's most dramatic mountain scenery.