Laguna De Los Tres

Lago De Los Tres trail is one of the most popular trails in the park and possibly all of Argentina.  It is possible to hike this as an out and back trail which would be about a 16 mile day.  If you want to see the alpenglow on Fitzroy, it is best to camp overnight at either Lago Capri or Poincenot camp.  However, these can be quite crowded.

I chose a day hike.  While this is a long day, if you start out by 6am, you have the trail mostly to yourself and back to El Chalten by late afternoon.  The first mile and the last mile are the most difficult on the trail.  There is a parking area at the trail head or you can walk from any part of town to the end of San Martin road where it veer’s right and turns to dirt.  There is also a gateway sign that you can’t miss.  After a short distance the trail begins to climb steadily into and out of the forest.  After about three miles you reach a trail split.  To the left is a trail to Lago Capri. I chose this and looped back on the other trail when I hiked out.  The trail to Lago Capri descends until you reach what I can only refer to as a “tent city.”  I’ve never seen so many tents so close together.  Lago Capri is just below this and offers some amazing views of Fitzroy.

The trail continues on the left of Lago Capri and ascends back onto the main trail.  After this point the trail is relatively level and eventually opens up to unobstructed views of Fitzroy.  The area of the trail that follows Chorrillo del Salto is particularly beautiful with great views of the stream in the foreground and Fitzroy as the background.

The trail crosses the stream several times before ascending again into the forest and Poincenot Campsite.  After this point the trail is very steep and exposed to the sun/elements.  The ascent to Lago De Los Tres seems neverending with many short switchbacks over rocky and at some points, icy terrain.  Finally you will reach the ridge with great views of the lake, glacier and Fitzroy.  There are several areas to explore for different vantage points and time to have lunch.

This is a long out and back hike.  Be prepared for any type of weather.  Forecasting here is not reliable.  Do not underestimate the length, altitude or terrain and you will have an enjoyable experience.