Laguna De los Tres trek
The most sought-after hike, to the natural viewpoint that comes closest to the imposing walls of Fitz Roy and its surrounding granite spires.
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Itinerary
The trailhead begins at the end of San Martín Avenue, where the urban area of El Chaltén ends and the parking area is located next to the old "Puesto Amarillo." (Yellow Post) During the first hour of the hike, the slope is somewhat steep, and you'll reach a natural viewpoint of the De las Vueltas River valley.
In a few minutes, you'll enter the "Chorrillo Del Salto" (Del Salto stream) valley heading toward Mount Fitz Roy. The ñires begin to grow increasingly numerous around the trail, and approximately an hour and a half into the journey, you reach a well-marked natural rocky viewpoint, with a sign that allows you to interpret the mountain and glacial panorama before you.
The trail continues up the Del Salto stream to the drainage area of the Madre and Hija lagoons. About four hours after leaving El Chaltén town, you first reach Poincenot Base Camp (one of the busiest campsites in the National Park) and, after crossing the Blanco River, you reach Río Blanco Base Camp (for climbers only).
From here, the trail continues on a somewhat steep slope of approximately 400 meters to Laguna De los Tres, which will require a little over an hour of effort.
The trail ends at the ancient moraine ridge (a huge arch-shaped formation that currently contains the lagoon, formed by the advance and subsequent retreat of the glacier), with an extraordinary view of the lagoon and De los Tres glacier. This is the closest view of the granite face of Mount Fitz Roy and its surrounding peaks.
If you make the effort to arrive at dawn, the reward will be double, as you will be able to witness the extraordinary moment when the hills turn red with the first rays of the sun.
Descending the moraine and skirting the lagoon to its mouth, you'll find a path that leads you to another impressive view: the desolate Laguna Sucia and its hanging glaciers.
While access to this viewpoint is possible year-round, from April to October it will depend on snow accumulation on the trail, especially on the final stretch.
If you don't want or doesn't feel safe to do this hike on your own, you can hire the services of a travel agency in El Chaltén or a National Park Service Provider Guide.
Schedules
It is advisable to start the hike very early, if possible at first light.
Take into account the sunset time so you can return with daylight.
Always carry a flashlight (not a cell phone) just in case!
Best Photos
The most sought-after photo is when the granite walls of the hills turn red/orange during sunrise.
Possible snow
In autumn or spring, check for the possible presence of snow or mud toward the end of the trail, which crosses a rocky area with a steep slope where it is dangerous to progress safely and where it is easy to become disoriented.
Before starting
Always check the status of the trails at the National Park Visitor Center.
Do not forget
Pack lunch and water bottle.
Sun hat and sunglasses.
Sunscreen lotion.
Gloves, warm hat and warm jacket.
Torch.
Waterproof jacket.
Entrance to the trail
Admission is subject to a fee.
Entrance tickets are purchased and paid for online.