Loma Del Diablo ascent

Abstract

Loma del Diablo is a unique and wild journey. If you are interested in following the less traveled trails to have direct contact with untamed Patagonia, this is an unmissable option. From the top you will enjoy stunning 360-degree views: Lago del Desierto to the north, the Cagliero Glacier to the west, the De las Vueltas River to the east and the imposing north face of Cerro Fitz Roy to the south.

Map of the area

The trek to Loma del Diablo begins 10.5 miles from El Chaltén, near the Laguna Cóndor Reserve.

Itinerary

At 09.00 am the company's transport will pick you up at your hotel, to enter the valley of the Río de las Vueltas towards Lago Del Desierto. Provincial Route 41 is a scenic road, a walk in itself, which follows the upstream of the mighty De las Vueltas River, crossing the native forest. You will be able to enjoy impressive views of the surrounding hills and glaciers, as the trees gain height..

The trailhead is located at the Estancia Gorra Blanca, within the Lago del Desierto Provincial Reserve..

At the beginning of the trek, the path heads west, climbing the wooded slope of Loma del Diablo..

You gain altitude quickly and once you have overcome the first 1000 ft. of positive gradient, the forest disappears to give way to a rocky, high mountain terrain..

Continue climbing another 2100 ft. of elevation gain until you reach the edge of the hill, and from there with a slightly less steep slope towards the north towards the summit.

At the viewpoint before reaching the summit you will have time to enjoy a well-deserved rest, enjoy lunch, and contemplate the wonderful views: Lago del Desierto to the north, the Cagliero Glacier to the west, the De las Vueltas River to the east and the imposing north face of Mt. Fitz Roy to the south.

At around 3:00 p.m., the descent begins to the access gate where the vehicle that will take you back to El Chaltén will pick you up, at around 5:00 p.m..