MOUNTAIN HUTS IN BARILOCHE

Northern Patagonia - Argentina

This is the most famous mountain trek in Northern Patagonia and the Lakes Region. Over 4 days, we will have the opportunity to explore the heart of Nahuel Huapi National Park, enjoying the comfort of mountain huts and their services—without the burden of carrying camping gear. The itinerary covers a variety of terrains, including steep sections, ridges with breathtaking views, forested valleys with crystal-clear rivers, and several lagoons of different sizes. It is undoubtedly an unforgettable experience for trekking enthusiasts.

The 4 Mountain Hut Experience
-Trek through the heart of Nahuel Huapi National Park
-Enjoy 360º panoramic views every day from the ridges
- Rest in mountain huts and savor their homemade meals
- Visit more than five high-altitude lagoons
- Witness stunning sunrises and sunsets from the heights

Previous Day
Meeting in Bariloche. Introduction to the guide, trip plan details, and equipment check.

Day 1 – Frey Hut
A 30-minute transfer from the hotel to the base of Catedral Ski Resort (1,000 meters above sea level). The trek begins with a gentle and easy section, allowing for a smooth transition into the activity. The trail follows a traverse while maintaining altitude above Lake Gutiérrez, then enters the Van Titter Creek Valley.
The first part of the trek passes through a tall lenga forest, which is in the process of recovering from an old wildfire. After 3-4 hours, we will reach Piedrita Hut, a unique mountain bivouac shelter built under a massive granite boulder. From this point, the vegetation gradually thins, and the stunted lenga trees give way to the first rocky formations of the valley.
After a break, we continue for one more hour, covering the most significant elevation gain of the day. We will finally arrive at Emilio Frey Hut (1,700 meters above sea level), where we will spend the night.
In the afternoon, those interested can explore the area, approaching the granite towers and enjoying an incredible alpine setting, a spot recognized for years as one of Patagonia's top rock-climbing destinations.

Day 2 – Frey Hut to Jakob Hut
After breakfast at the hut, we begin our journey towards Jakob Hut, starting with a climb to Laguna Schmoll, which we reach after about an hour of hiking. The next challenge is the North Ridge of Catedral at 2,000 meters above sea level, requiring an additional hour of ascent through rocky and rugged terrain. However, the effort is well rewarded with stunning views of Mount Tronador and a vast portion of Nahuel Huapi National Park.
From the highest point, we descend into the Rucaco Valley via a loose-rock slope. The trail crosses the valley before ascending 300 meters to reach the second high point of the day, Cerro Brecha Negra’s ridge.
After taking in the views and resting, the final stretch is a 1.5-hour descent to Laguna Jakob, where our hut for the night is located.

Day 3 – Jakob Hut to Laguna Negra Hut
The third day starts early, as it is the longest and most challenging of the trek.
The first major challenge is reaching Pico Refugio, passing by Laguna Témpanos. This involves a short but steep scramble, where we may need to use our hands. Although the climbing section is brief, our guides will ensure optimal safety conditions. Once we reach Pico Refugio, the trail follows a ridge connecting it to Cerro Inocentes, continuing toward the Cerro Navidad ridge (2,080 meters), where we descend into the valley below.
The final stretch is a one-hour climb leading to our hut for the night, located at Laguna Negra (1,650 meters above sea level).

Day 4 – Laguna Negra Hut to López Hut – Return to Bariloche
After breakfast, we take a trail circling Laguna Negra, leading towards Cerro Bailey Willis. We navigate its rocky ridge before descending into a beautiful high-altitude valley, an ideal spot for lunch and a quick refresh. The trail then follows a ridge before ascending through a steep gully to reach Pico Turista (2,040 meters), part of the Cerro López massif. From here, we are rewarded with spectacular panoramic views of Lake Nahuel Huapi, Lake Moreno, the Llao Llao Hotel, and Northern Patagonia.
The final section of the trek follows the traditional descent route to La Hoya and then to López Hut. After a mandatory stop at the hut to rest and hydrate, we begin the last part of the journey: a two-hour descent to the Circuito Chico road, where our transportation will be waiting to take us back to Bariloche.

SUMMARY

Technical Information

Total Days: 5
Days in the Mountains: 4
Meeting Point: San Carlos de Bariloche
Ending Point: San Carlos de Bariloche

INCLUDED SERVICES
- 2 nights of accommodation in Bariloche
- Accommodation in mountain huts and domes
- Mountain guide Assistant (starting from the 5th participant)   
- Transfers to the starting point and from the endpoint of the program
- All meals in the mountains 
- Group camping equipment 
- Communication equipment
- First aid equipment
- Personal accident insurance

OPTIONAL SERVICES
- Load porters
- Personal equipment