January 11: Cotopaxi to Salcedo; mixed volcanic products sequence of events
After a second night at Tampopaxi Lodge we loaded up for a trip to the town of Salcedo. Before leaving we examined the sequence of volcanic deposits exposed in the stream cut 200 yards from the hotel. We were able to discern a sequence of events including two different airfall events of different magnitude followed by a substantial lahar event, followed by winnowing of the surface fines.
We then traveled south and to a significantly lower elevation – if you can call 8,500 feet significantly lower! A little afternoon down time was followed by a late afternoon discussion of articles on mountain building and the Andes. Our after dinner lecture focused on volcanic hazards.
