Best trails in Bernardo O'Higgins National Park
Bernardo O'Higgins National Park administratively corresponds to the municipalities of Tortel (Province of Capitán Prat, Aysén Region) and Puerto Natales (Province of Última Esperanza, Magallanes and Chilean Antarctica Region). The park's largest extension is located in the latter province. It was created on July 22, 1969, by DS 264 of the Ministry of Agriculture. It has undergone subsequent modifications due to different decrees.
It stands out for its large ice surfaces and also for the culture and vestiges of the Kawésqar ethnic group. Also, for the protection of the species of fauna, like the huemul, and of flora, like the coigüe of Magallanes.
The place has large ice surfaces, among which the Southern Ice Field, the Dr. Juan Bruggen Ice Field and the Patagonian Ice Field stand out, which together have an extension of 1,000,500 hectares.
Its primitive area is of extraordinary beauty and great scientific interest, as it contains anthropological resources, such as the remains of kawésqar communities, beautiful landscapes made up of mountains, ice fields, fjords and glaciers, as well as important species of wild fauna and flora.
Top trails
- (27)•Hard•8.9 mi•Est. 5.5–6 hrThis route can be done in both directions, in addition to doing it from point to point, as part of a multi-day tour. It has great attractions, such as Lake Viedma and some lagoons along the way, in addition to the imposing ice nearby. The terrain is quite exposed, with low vegetation and somewhat eroded. Beautiful tour in the Patagonian area.
- (26)•Hard•14.2 mi•Est. 9–10 hrThis hike is part of the circuit that takes place around Cerro Huemul known as Vuelta Al Huemul. It starts from the camp that is around Laguna Toro or Túnel and reaches Paso del Viento camp, also passing through Laguna Túnel Superior and some other campsites. It is a great journey with impressive landscapes full of snowy peaks and glaciers.
- (23)•Easy•1.3 mi•Est. 0.5–1 hrThis is a beautiful forest trail that borders the southern coast of Laguna Serrano until it reaches the viewpoint of the spectacular Serrano Glacier and the Balmaceda Glacier in the distance. To get to the trailhead located at the Guarderia Balmaceda - CONAF, you need to take water transports that go through the Seno Ultima Esperanza from Puerto Natales.
- (2)•Hard•5.4 mi•Est. 5–5.5 hrThis route can be part of a longer tour, lasting several days, and allows you to travel along part of the coast of Lake Viedma, starting and ending in Bahía de los Témpanos. The terrain is varied, with sectors of medium altitude vegetation and others more exposed and rocky. Good footwear and sun protection are recommended.
- Easy•1.8 mi•Est. 0.5–1 hrThis route in the middle of the fjords of Patagonia, takes you on a tour of Puerto Edén and all the way to Mirador Edén, offering excellent views along the way. The route returns to the starting point, after covering a large part of the coastal area of the place. Ideal for taking pictures.
- Hard•56.8 mi•Est. 24 hr+The Lautaro Volcano is the highest elevation in the Southern Patagonian Ice Field. Multi-day route, starting from La Playita Camp in the Electric Lake. The route is extensive and involves crossing the Southern Ice Field to access the Volcano. The entire route is in continuous ascent, which does not have a great slope until reaching the Volcano. Due to its winter conditions, it is necessary to have experience in these environments and have adequate technical equipment.
- Hard•42.6 miRoute of ascent to the Lautaro volcano, the highest peak in the Magallanes Region. This route is normally done with the help of a guide, since the route is intense and requires the transport of an expedition backpack. There is a great variation in the terrain. It is an activity in which you will return exhausted. Some previous experience in intense activities is required, as you will be moving sometimes in loose terrain in snow and rocks, which requires great climbing skills and adequate gear.
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Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to hike in Bernardo O'Higgins National Park?
According to users from AllTrails.com, the best place to hike in Bernardo O'Higgins National Park is Campamento Bahía de los Témpanos - Campamento Paso del Viento, which has a 4.5 star rating from 27 reviews. This trail is 8.9 mi long with an elevation gain of 3,733 ft.
What is the longest trail in Bernardo O'Higgins National Park?
According to AllTrails.com, the longest trail in Bernardo O'Higgins National Park is Volcán Lautaro. This trail is estimated to be 56.8 mi long.
How many trails are in Bernardo O'Higgins National Park?
There are 9 trails in Bernardo O'Higgins National Park. These trails have an average 4.7-star rating from 79 AllTrails community reviews.
Which trail has the most elevation gain in Bernardo O'Higgins National Park?
If you're looking for elevation gain, Bernardo O'Higgins National Park has you covered. Volcán Lautaro boasts the most elevation gain with 16,679 ft of total ascent. The park's runner-up is Volcán Lautaro, which will get you 13,753 ft of elevation gain.
Are there camping trails available in Bernardo O'Higgins National Park?
According to AllTrails.com, there are 4 camping trails in Bernardo O'Higgins National Park and the most popular is Campamento Bahía de los Témpanos - Campamento Paso del Viento with an average 4.5 star rating from 27 community reviews.
Are there any trails with lakes in Bernardo O'Higgins National Park?
Yes, there are 4 trails with lakes in Bernardo O'Higgins National Park, including Campamento Bahía de los Témpanos - Campamento Paso del Viento, Laguna Toro - Paso del Viento, Condor Viewpoint via Vuelta al Huemul Trail, and Lago Geikie.
Are there any trails with huts in Bernardo O'Higgins National Park?
Yes, there are 2 trails with huts in Bernardo O'Higgins National Park, including Campamento Bahía de los Témpanos - Campamento Paso del Viento and Laguna Toro - Paso del Viento.
Are there any trails with glaciers in Bernardo O'Higgins National Park?
Yes, there is one trail with a glacier in Bernardo O'Higgins National Park: Laguna Toro - Paso del Viento.
Are there any trails with scenic viewpoints in Bernardo O'Higgins National Park?
Yes, there are 3 trails with scenic viewpoints in Bernardo O'Higgins National Park, including Serrano Glacier Viewpoint, Condor Viewpoint via Vuelta al Huemul Trail, and Puerto Edén y Mirador Edén Ruta Circular.
Are there any trails with cliffs in Bernardo O'Higgins National Park?
Yes, there is one trail with a cliff in Bernardo O'Higgins National Park: Campamento Bahía de los Témpanos - Campamento Paso del Viento.
