Explore Hornopirén National Park, a natural gem established in 1988 and incorporated into the Route of the Parks trail in 2018. Named after the smoking peaks of Hornopirén Volcano, this park covers nearly 170,000 acres of biodiverse landscapes in Chile’s Los Lagos province.
Home to ancient alerce trees and diverse wildlife, including pumas and the pudu deer, the park is a haven for nature enthusiasts. Birdwatchers can spot a variety of species, including the Magellanic woodpecker and the chucao songbird.
With its stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity, Hornopirén National Park is a must-visit destination for those seeking to explore Chile’s natural beauty.
What to do and see
For a peaceful hiking experience away from crowds, Hornopirén National Park is a perfect choice. While the park lacks formal trekking circuits or refuges, its pristine wilderness and stunning landscapes make it a hiker’s paradise. Be prepared for the park’s wet climate by dressing for rain and expect muddy trails.
One of the best-marked trails leads about 10 kilometers from the park entrance to Lake Pinto Concha, a hike that can be completed by a fit hiker in 6-7 hours. As you ascend, you’ll be surrounded by ancient alerce trees until you reach the lake’s wide beaches of grey volcanic sand. Camping is allowed in designated areas on the beach, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
For a shorter hike, follow a gentle trail for about 3 kilometers from Pinto Concha through more alerce forest to a beautiful viewpoint on the southern slopes of Yates Volcano.
If you’re short on time, consider a day hike along the lively waters of the Río Blanco river to its enchanting waterfall. The hike takes about 90 minutes each way, with a steep ascent to the falls. The waterfall consists of two cascades feeding into a wide milky blue pool, creating a mesmerizing sight.