Tucked away in the Lago del Desierto area, about an hour’s drive from El Chaltén, Glaciar Huemul offers one of the most accessible glacier hikes in the region. Though often overshadowed by the larger names like Viedma or Perito Moreno, this small glacier delivers big when it comes to beauty: crystal-clear lagoon, hanging ice, lenga forests, and panoramic views of Mount Fitz Roy to the south.
If you’re looking for a short adventure with high visual impact—and without the crowds—Huemul Glacier is a perfect choice.
Where It Is and How to Get There
The trailhead is located near the southern tip of Lago del Desierto, about 37 km (23 mi) north of El Chaltén. You can get there by car (about 1–1.5 hours) on a gravel road that winds along the Río de las Vueltas valley.
- Distance from El Chaltén: Approx. 1.5 hours by vehicle
- Trail length: ~2.5 km round trip
- Time: 1 to 1.5 hours
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate (short but with some steep sections)
- Entrance fee: Required (private land)
What to Expect on the Trail
The hike begins in a shady lenga forest and quickly gains elevation as it approaches the glacier. While the ascent is relatively short, the slope can be steep and slippery in parts, especially after rain. Wooden steps and ropes help in the steeper areas.
After about 30–40 minutes of hiking, you’ll reach a glacial lagoon with turquoise waters reflecting the hanging ice of Glaciar Huemul above. On clear days, Cerro Fitz Roy can be seen rising dramatically in the distance—making this spot an unexpected photo gem.
Why Visit Glaciar Huemul?
- Perfect for travelers with limited time
- Less crowded than major glacier destinations
- Impressive views of ice, forest, and Fitz Roy
- Accessible without needing a guide or technical gear
- Ideal half-day excursion for all ages
Tips for Visiting
- Wear hiking shoes—the trail is short but can be muddy or steep
- Bring cash for the entrance (cash only, no cards)
- Check weather—visibility of Fitz Roy depends on conditions
- Combine with a visit to Lago del Desierto for a full-day outing
Nearby Attractions
- Lago del Desierto: Boat rides and kayaking available
- Laguna Larga trail: A longer hike in the same area
- Paso de las Vueltas viewpoint: Scenic stop en route back to El Chaltén
- Hike on top of the Huemul Glacier: you can hike on top of the ice, through a full day excursion from El Chaltén.
Patagonia Tours
Though Glaciar Huemul may be small in size, it delivers some of the best glacier-lagoon-forest views in the El Chaltén region. Its short and accessible trail, combined with stunning natural beauty, makes it an ideal addition to any Patagonia itinerary—especially for those venturing into the Lago del Desierto area.
We’re a local tour operator based in Buenos Aires, which offers custom tours in Patagonia and other regions of Argentina and Chile. We invite you to contact us, and start planning your next incredible journey to South America!
Get inspired by some of our travel ideas, listed below:
Fitz Roy Trek & W Trek – Patagonia Trekking Tour
W Trek Patagonia Trekking Tour – Torres del Paine
O Circuit Patagonia – Torres del Paine
Huemul Circuit & Glaciar Perito Moreno
Darwin Range Patagonia Expedition
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