Cerro Torre Trail El Chaltén
Hike to Laguna Torre for breathtaking views of the iconic Cerro Torre peak and its glacial lake, a must-do in Patagonia.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, best light
Cerro Torre Trail El Chaltén
Best Time
Fewer crowds, best light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike to Laguna Torre for breathtaking views of the iconic Cerro Torre peak and its glacial lake, a must-do in Patagonia.
"Think I preferred it over Fitz Roy, views are amazing and ice field at end is incredible!"
Start Early! :sunrise:
Beat the crowds and enjoy the tranquility. Arriving at 5:30 AM is recommended.
Pack for All Weather :cloud:
Patagonian weather changes rapidly. Bring layers, waterproofs, and wind protection.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Laguna Torre
End of the trail
A stunning glacial lake with icebergs, offering dramatic views of Cerro Torre.
Cerro Torre Views
Various viewpoints along the trail
Iconic granite spire, one of the world's most challenging peaks to climb.
Glacier Mirador
Past Laguna Torre
An extension of the trail offering a closer look at the glacier feeding the lake.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Trek
Trail Access & Fees
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Start Early! :sunrise:
Beat the crowds and enjoy the tranquility. Arriving at 5:30 AM is recommended.
Pack for All Weather :cloud:
Patagonian weather changes rapidly. Bring layers, waterproofs, and wind protection.
Free Trail Access :money_with_wings:
The west trailhead offers free entry. Avoid the north trailhead for this specific hike.
Don't Skip the Glacier :ice_cube:
Continue past the lake to the Mirador for stunning glacier views.
Tips
from all over the internet
Start Early! :sunrise:
Beat the crowds and enjoy the tranquility. Arriving at 5:30 AM is recommended.
Pack for All Weather :cloud:
Patagonian weather changes rapidly. Bring layers, waterproofs, and wind protection.
Free Trail Access :money_with_wings:
The west trailhead offers free entry. Avoid the north trailhead for this specific hike.
Don't Skip the Glacier :ice_cube:
Continue past the lake to the Mirador for stunning glacier views.
Bring Snacks & Water :water_buffalo:
No facilities on the trail. Ensure you have enough provisions for the 18km round trip.
Wear Sturdy Shoes :athletic_shoe:
The trail has varied terrain, including uphill sections and rocky paths.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Cerro Torre Trail is highly praised for its spectacular views of the iconic peak and glacial lake, often considered more impressive than Fitz Roy by some. Hikers appreciate the moderate difficulty and free access from the west trailhead. However, the unpredictable Patagonian weather can be a significant challenge, and the lake's water color is described as more grey-green than vibrant blue.
"This is an amazing trail. After a steep start out of El Chalten it flattens out through a valley that alternates between flat and moderate ascents. About a mile in you can see a waterfall. After a steep final ascent at about 2 miles you reach a Mirador where you can see a beautiful mountain range, Mount Solo and Fitz Roy."
David Nitchman
"Great hike, no rangers hut so it’s free :)
Think I preferred it over Fitz Roy, views are amazing and ice field at end is incredible!
First 2km are mostly uphill but pretty much flat from there on."
Odhran
"The trailhead at the west of the city has no control point so it is free to hike there. (not the north one shared for the fitz roy / Laguna de tres)
It is the easiest one of the three main hike, versus Tumbado and Fitz Roy.
The lake at the top has iceberg in it. It doesn't have the pretty blue color tho. It is more grey/greenish.
When arriving at the lake the trail continues to a Mirador over the glacier. It is probably an extra 1-2 hours to do. In my opinion was worth it to get a better view on the lake."
Laurent H
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most recommended trailhead for the Cerro Torre trail is located on the west side of El Chaltén. You can walk from the town center. This access point is known for being free, unlike some other popular hiking routes in the area.
While El Chaltén is a small town, most accommodations are within walking distance of the west trailhead. If you're staying further out, local taxis or a short walk are your best options.
El Chaltén is typically reached via El Calafate. Buses run regularly from El Calafate to El Chaltén, with the journey taking approximately 3-4 hours.
Yes, you can drive to the west trailhead. Parking is available, but it can fill up, especially during peak season. Starting early is advisable.
No, the north trailhead is primarily for the Fitz Roy and Laguna de los Tres hikes. For Cerro Torre, use the west trailhead to avoid potential fees and ensure you're on the correct path.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The trailhead on the west side of El Chaltén is generally free to access. Some reviews mention potential fees at other trailheads, but the Laguna Torre trail is often cited as free. Arriving early can help avoid any potential control points.
The trail is open 24/7 as it's a natural park area. However, for the best experience and safety, it's recommended to hike during daylight hours. Starting very early is key to avoiding crowds.
Based on traveler feedback, the Laguna Torre trail accessed from the west side of El Chaltén typically does not have an entrance fee. This makes it a popular and accessible option.
Camping is possible at designated spots along the trail, offering a unique experience to wake up to Patagonian sunrises. Check local regulations for specific camping rules and locations.
There are no ticket booths on the trail itself. Access is typically managed at trailheads. For the free west trailhead, no tickets are needed.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The Cerro Torre trail is generally considered moderate. The first 2km involve an uphill climb, but the rest of the trail is mostly flat with some moderate ascents. The total length is about 18km round trip.
The hike typically takes between 6 to 8 hours for the round trip, depending on your pace and how much time you spend at Laguna Torre and the glacier viewpoint.
You'll experience diverse landscapes, including forests, valleys, and eventually the stunning Laguna Torre with icebergs and the imposing Cerro Torre peak.
There isn't a ranger's hut directly on the Laguna Torre trail, which contributes to its free access. However, the trail is well-marked with signposts at every kilometer.
Wear sturdy hiking boots, comfortable hiking pants, and bring layers including a waterproof and windproof jacket. A hat and gloves are also recommended due to unpredictable Patagonian weather.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning offers soft light and fewer crowds, perfect for capturing the serene beauty of Laguna Torre. Late afternoon provides a golden hour glow on the peaks.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast landscapes and the towering Cerro Torre. A telephoto lens can be useful for details of the glacier and distant peaks. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions.
Absolutely! The trail offers numerous viewpoints, especially as you approach Laguna Torre. The reflections in the lagoon can be spectacular, and the glacier Mirador provides a unique perspective.
Drone usage in national parks often has restrictions. It's best to check the latest regulations with the park authorities in El Chaltén before flying a drone.
Look for the reflections in Laguna Torre, the icebergs floating in the water, and the dramatic interplay of light and shadow on Cerro Torre itself. The forest sections also offer beautiful light.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key recommendations for families: Start very early to avoid the busiest times and ensure you have plenty of snacks and water. The trail is well-marked, but keeping an eye on children is important, especially near the lake. Consider bringing binoculars for wildlife spotting. The views are incredibly rewarding and make for a memorable family adventure.
Budget Travelers
Tips for budget travelers: Consider camping along the trail if permitted and you have the gear, which can save on accommodation costs and offer a unique experience.
El Chaltén itself offers a range of hostels and budget guesthouses. Walking from your accommodation to the trailhead also saves on transportation costs. Photography Enthusiasts
The trail itself winds through diverse landscapes, providing varied backdrops. Photography tips: Aim for an early morning start to capture the soft, golden light and reflections on Laguna Torre.
Bring a wide-angle lens for sweeping vistas and a telephoto lens for details of the glacier and mountain. Be prepared for changing weather, as dramatic skies can add incredible mood to your shots. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions and consider a polarizing filter to enhance the blues of the water and sky. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Majesty of Cerro Torre
The sheer verticality and unpredictable weather make it a formidable objective. Even from the trail, its imposing presence is awe-inspiring, a constant reminder of nature's raw power. The trail to Laguna Torre offers a more accessible way to appreciate this iconic mountain. While the climb itself is reserved for the most experienced, the hike provides breathtaking vistas of Cerro Torre and its surrounding glaciers. The journey through forests and valleys builds anticipation for the grand reveal at the lagoon.
Many visitors find the views of Cerro Torre from Laguna Torre to be even more impressive than those of Fitz Roy, due to its unique, jagged silhouette and the dramatic glacial environment.
Navigating the Laguna Torre Trail
Along the way, you'll encounter varied terrain, from forest paths to more open, windswept sections. Keep an eye out for wildlife; guanacos, native camelids, are often spotted in the Patagonian landscape.
The trail is considered moderate due to its length rather than technical difficulty, making it achievable for most reasonably fit hikers. A key tip is to continue past the main viewpoint of Laguna Torre to a Mirador overlooking the glacier. This extension, adding about 1-2 hours, offers a more comprehensive view of the glacial system and is highly recommended by those who have made the trek.
Patagonian Weather: Be Prepared!
Layering is crucial. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, add an insulating mid-layer (like fleece or down), and top it off with a waterproof and windproof outer shell. Even on a sunny morning, conditions can shift dramatically by the afternoon.
While the unpredictable weather can be challenging, it also contributes to the dramatic and wild beauty of the landscape. When the clouds part, the views of Cerro Torre and the surrounding glaciers are absolutely spectacular.
Patience and flexibility are rewarded with unforgettable moments.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit