The trek from skardu to the baltoro glacier gives the best close-up views of k2, and the trail along the braldu and biaho rivers takes hikers right into the heart of the karakoram mountains. the early part of the trek passes through green orchards, and summer visitors will be able to sample apples, apricots, peaches and cherries along the way. the terrain soon becomes rugged, however, and trekkers should be prepared to navigate trails covered with sharp stones and punctuated by glacial streams and steep gullies. the dark stone of the lower peaks provides a dramatic contrast to the glittering snow-capped peaks in the distance. concordia, the base camp for k2 expeditions, offers spectacular views of some of the highest mountains on earth, including k2, gasherbrum, masherbrum, and chogolisa.