Loma del Pliegue Tumbado

The Loma del Pliegue Tumbado Hike starts from the National Park Visitor Center on the southern edge of El Chaltén, so no vehicle transfer is normally required. Your guide will meet you at your hotel and accompany you to the beginning of the trail.

The hike begins with a steady climb across the open Patagonian steppe before entering a native lenga forest. The ascent is gradual but continuous, with occasional clearings offering views of the Eastern face of Cerro Fitzroy and the surrounding mountains.

As the trail gains elevation, views begin to open toward Cerro Torre, Mount Fitz Roy, Laguna Torre, Cerro Solo, and the glaciers of the Torre Valley. After leaving the forest, the landscape becomes increasingly open and exposed. Rolling hills of deteriorated shale with fossilized marine life. 

The upper section of the Loma del Pliegue Tumbado Hike follows a steeper trail across loose rock and scree. This section is physically demanding and can become considerably more difficult during strong winds, rain, snow, or poor visibility. Depending on the weather and the group’s ability, your guide may recommend stopping at one of the panoramic viewpoints below the summit.

From the summit, you can enjoy one of the most complete panoramic views in El Chaltén. The viewpoint overlooks Laguna Torre, Glacier Grande, Cerro Torre, the Fitz Roy Massif, Lago Viedma, and the Río de las Vueltas valley. On a clear day, sections of the Southern Patagonian Ice Field may also be visible beyond the mountains.

Lunch is normally enjoyed at a sheltered viewpoint or near the summit, depending on the wind and weather conditions. Because the upper section is completely exposed, your guide will select the safest and most comfortable place to stop.

After reaching the summit or upper viewpoint, the Loma del Pliegue Tumbado Hike returns to El Chaltén along the same trail. The descent is mostly downhill, passing once again through the alpine terrain, lenga forest, and open steppe.

At the end of the Loma del Pliegue Tumbado Hike, your guide will accompany you from the trailhead back to your hotel in El Chaltén.