Huemul Glacier
Parque Nacional Los Glaciares, El Calafate, Santa Cruz
Jagged snow-covered cliffs and dense woodlands unfold along the hike to the Huemul Glacier, named after the rare huemul deer often spotted in the area. Looking out over the Lake of the Desert (Lago del Desierto), it’s one of the most accessible glaciers in El Chaltén village and a popular Patagonian hike.
The basics
The Huemul Glacier trail is renowned as the most rewarding short hike in El Chaltén, affording dramatic views of the Huemul Glacier, the De las Vueltas river valley, and the north face of Mount Fitz Roy. For the full experience, combine your hike with a boat cruise across the Lake of the Desert. Most visitors discover the Huemul Glacier on a day trip from El Chaltén or El Calafate, which can include a drive along part of Argentina’s famous Route 40 or a wine-tasting experience at a local Patagonian winery.
Things to know before you go
The Huemul Glacier trail is the best hike in the area for spectacular glacier views with minimum effort.
The 2-mile (3.2-kilometer) Huemul Glacier trail takes about 1.5 to two hours to complete and requires a moderate level of fitness. The out-and-back trail is uneven underfoot and mostly uphill, so pack sturdy shoes and plenty of water.
There is a small fee to hike the trail, but parking by the trailhead is free.
How to get there
The Huemul Glacier trail starts from the Lake of the Desert. Shuttles run daily to the trailhead from El Chaltén, about a 1-hour drive along an unpaved road; seats can book up quickly, so be sure to secure your spot in advance. Alternatively, opt for a private taxi or join a tour from El Chaltén or El Calafate.
When to get there
The trail stays open year-round, but the best time to visit is spring through fall (September to April) when the weather is most favorable for hiking. Summer (December–February) is peak season, and shuttles and accommodation can book up fast, so plan ahead. If you visit in summer, keep a look out along the trail for the blue-colored Calafate berries that gave the city of El Calafate its name.
Hiking the Huemul Circuit
The short Huemul Glacier trail is not to be confused with the Huemul Circuit, an epic 4-day hike that sets out from El Chaltén and loops around Los Glaciares National Park. The more than 40-mile (64-kilometer) trek affords unparalleled views of the Southern Patagonian Ice Field, passing forests, rivers, rocky mountain passes, and iceberg-filled lakes. Highlights include the Toro Lagoon, the Viedma Glacier, and the Viento and Huemul mountain passes.
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