The Grey Valley is one of the most captivating sectors of Torres del Paine National Park, home to dramatic mountain scenery, ancient forests, and the striking Grey Glacier. Located in the western part of the park, this area is part of both the W Trek and O Circuit, and offers hikers the chance to walk alongside massive icebergs and overlook one of the most impressive glaciers in all of Patagonia.
Where It Begins
The Grey Valley is most commonly accessed from Refugio Paine Grande, which sits on the shores of Lake Pehoé. From there, a scenic trail leads north toward Refugio Grey, closely following the edge of Lago Grey and offering incredible views of the glacier and its floating icebergs.
Another option is to arrive directly at Refugio Grey via boat from Hotel Lago Grey, crossing Lago Grey and landing near the refuge—ideal for those who want to shorten the hike and focus on the glacier area.
You can (usually) also visit this valley through a full day excursion from Puerto Natales or other points inside the Park.
Trail Overview
- Distance (Paine Grande to Refugio Grey): Approx. 11 km (6.8 mi) one way
- Duration: 3.5 to 4.5 hours one way
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Elevation Gain: Around 300 meters (980 feet)
The trail is well-marked and offers a mix of open landscapes, forested stretches, and cliffside views of Lake Grey. As you get closer to Refugio Grey, you’ll start to see the first glimpses of the glacier in the distance—a mesmerizing wall of blue and white ice.
Glacier Grey and the Suspension Bridges
From Refugio Grey, you can continue a short hike northward to reach three suspension bridges offering jaw-dropping views of the Grey Glacier and the Southern Patagonian Ice Field. These bridges are part of the O Circuit and provide a unique bird’s-eye view of crevasses and ice flows.
For those not doing the full O Trek, a day hike from Paine Grande to Refugio Grey and back is a fantastic way to experience this sector without an overnight stay.
Highlights of the Grey Valley
- Close-up views of Grey Glacier
- Towering icebergs floating on Lago Grey
- Suspension bridges over deep ravines
- Optional kayak, hikes, or boat excursions near the glacier
- Native forests and dramatic mountain backdrops
When to Visit
The best time to explore the Grey Valley is during the austral summer, between November and March. The days are longer, and the trails are generally more accessible. However, weather in Torres del Paine is famously unpredictable—always bring layers, rain gear, and sun protection.
Pro Tips
- You can combine a boat trip and a hike to customize your experience
- Refugio Grey offers food, lodging, and a cozy place to rest
- Try to hike early or late in the day to enjoy quieter trails
- Don’t forget your camera—the glacier views are stunning
Hiking tours in Patagonia
The Grey Valley is a dreamlike destination, where Patagonian wilderness meets icy serenity. Whether you’re hiking along cliffside trails, crossing high bridges, or simply sitting in awe at the edge of the glacier, this part of Torres del Paine delivers unforgettable moments—and a deep connection to the raw power of nature.
We’re a local tour operator based in Buenos Aires, which offers custom tours in Patagonia and other regions of Chile and Argentina. 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
O Circuit Patagonia – Torres del Paine
Huemul Circuit & Glaciar Perito Moreno
Darwin Range Patagonia Expedition
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