This hike is ideal for exploring the mountains of the Bariloche area in 1 or 2 days.
The trek starts at the base of Cerro Catedral, located 15 kilometres (9 miles) from the centre of San Carlos de Bariloche. The trek is 20 km (12.4 miles) long in total, including the ascent and descent, with a cumulative elevation gain of 800 metres (2,625 feet).
We will begin by hiking through a mixed forest, gaining very little elevation as we warm up, crossing streams of crystal-clear water. Gradually, we will begin to enjoy views from above of Lake Gutiérrez and the beautiful mountains that surround it. After a bit of hiking, we will begin to traverse the Van-Titter Stream valley, within the high-altitude lenga forest, and, gaining a little more elevation, we will reach the Slovenian “Piedritas” refuge, where we can enjoy a well-deserved rest. Then we will embark on the final leg of the trek, ascending through a lenga forest that becomes increasingly stunted until we reach the Emilio Frey shelter. The shelter is located on the shores of Tonchek Lagoon, in an incredible cirque carved by glaciers and surrounded by granite spires, where, if we are lucky and have a keen eye, we may spot climbers enjoying the quality of the rock.
If the client wishes, they can spend the night at the refuge, enjoying a hearty dinner and resting after taking in a beautiful sunset and a night under the stars. Alternatively, if the client wishes to return to the town, the descent can be made on the same day, with a return to Bariloche in the afternoon.
We highly recommend spending the night in the mountains, as you will have more time to enjoy the area and take short walks around the lodge. It is also a good option for combining multi-day trekking activities in the area (please enquire about similar activities).