Details

Length- 15 miles (24 kilometers)

Time- It took us about 8 hours, but we were with another couple, took it slow, and talked a lot along the way.  If determined, it can probably be done in about 6.

Difficulty- This was a relatively easy hike after the initial hour climb once on the trail out of town.  As long as you are in reasonably good shape, this shouldn’t be too much of a challenge

Trail Description

Trail Head- There are two trail heads for the hike to Lago Torres.  One begins in town behind Hosteria Los Nires, and one begins from the artisan’s market north of town.  Both are easy to find.

Route- All trails in the El Chalten area are very well signposted, so you shouldn’t have any trouble finding your way around, even if you’re totally new to hiking and trekking.  We began our hike behind the hostel, and the initial climb of about an hour was fairly difficult.  But after going straight up for the first hour or so, it levels off for the remainder of the hike.

Then there’s a nice walk through the forests and along Rio Fitz Roy (don’t forget to fill up your water bottles from the streams-best water EVER!), eventually passing through Camp DeAgonstini.  Another 15 minute ascent has hikers face to face with Lago Torre, with Glacier Torre behind and Cerro Torre and Fitz Roy off to the distance on your right.  If you want to extend the hike another hour or so, you can walk around the lake to the north shore and Mirador Maestri (mirador basically means “lookout”).

Camping- DeAgostini Campsite is about 15 minutes before reaching Lago and Glacier Torres.  It’s a free campsite that is on a first-come, first-served basis.  Like all campsites along the trails, it is very basic with pit toilets and that’s it.  If you want to make this part of a multi-day trek, camp here.  The campground is near the pit toilet in the picture below, and as you can see, the views from the campground are stunning.

Notes- If you’ve read the Trekking Guide (for those who like to eat and drink a lot), you’d know that while we have done some amazing hikes during our travels, we are NOT the most experienced hikers around.  This hike is perfect for those beginning hikers who have little to no experience.  It’s challenging at first, but the remainder of the hike is a pleasant walk through the forests and valley, with amazing views of Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre, the two main peaks in this region.  Expect to be tired and a bit sore by the end of the day, but not exhausted.  Be sure to read the trekking guide to El Chalten for other tips for hiking in this area.  Even if you’re a hardcore trekker, this is still a great hike.  It may not have you huffing and puffing by the end, but it’s still a nice 6-8 hour hike.

Pictures

Now enjoy some of our favorite pictures from this hike.  Hopefully these motivate you to get to this beautiful area and get out on the trails.  Enjoy!