Chorrillo del Salto
A Short, Scenic Hike to a Patagonian Waterfall
The Chorrillo del Salto hike is one of the most accessible and family friendly trails in El Chaltén. This short hike takes you to a stunning waterfall nestled in the foothills of the Andes, just a few kilometers from town. With minimal elevation gain and an easy, well-marked path, it’s perfect for travelers of all ages and fitness levels looking for a relaxing nature outing. The peaceful setting, surrounded by lenga forests and the sound of cascading water, makes Chorrillo del Salto an ideal spot for a picnic or a break from more strenuous activities.
Itinerary
Start point
El Chaltén
- The trailhead can be accessed by car or on foot from El Chaltén. If hiking, the trail begins at the Western end of town, following the road toward Lago del Desierto. The drive takes about 15 minutes, while the walk will take around 1 hour.
Distance
6 km (3.7 miles) round trip from town (or 1.5 km from the parking area)
- If walking from town, the round-trip distance is 6 km. If you drive to the trailhead near the parking area, the walk to the waterfall is only 1.5 km (1 mile) round trip.
Difficulty
Easy
- The path is at and well-marked, with minimal elevation gain, making it suitable for all tness levels, including children and older adults.
Trail Highlights
Scenic Walk Through Lenga Forest
As you follow the path toward the waterfall, you’ll pass through beautiful lenga forests, where you can observe local ora and fauna. The trail is peaceful, offering plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the surroundings.
Arrival at Chorrillo del Salto
After a short, easy hike, you’ll arrive at Chorrillo del Salto, a beautiful waterfall that plunges about 20 meters (65 feet) into a small pool below. The crystal-clear water, set against the backdrop of rugged rocks and forested cliffs, creates a picturesque scene perfect for relaxing, photographing, or having a picnic.
Optional: Continue Exploring
While Chorrillo del Salto is the main attraction, there are additional paths along the river and nearby areas that you can explore if you wish to extend your walk. These paths offer more serene views of the river and surrounding forest.
Return Journey
Once you’ve enjoyed the beauty of the waterfall, you can easily retrace your steps back to the parking area or to El Chaltén if you’ve walked from town. The return trip is equally scenic and relaxed.
What to Bring
Water and snacks
While the hike is short, bringing water and a light snack is always a good idea, especially if you plan to have a picnic by the waterfall.
Comfortable shoes
Though the trail is easy, wearing comfortable walking shoes or light hiking boots is recommended.
Sunscreen and hat
Even though parts of the trail are shaded, it’s important to protect yourself from the sun.
Camera
Chorrillo del Salto is a beautiful spot for photography, especially in the early morning or late afternoon when the light is softer.
Why Visit Chorrillo del Salto with Connect Patagonia?
At Connect Patagonia, we offer guided walks to Chorrillo del Salto, providing an enriching experience where you’ll learn about the local ora, fauna, and history of the area. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing day out in nature or a peaceful retreat, our guides will ensure you enjoy every moment of your visit to this hidden gem of El Chaltén.
Pro tips for laguna de los tres
Best Time to Visit
The waterfall is accessible year-round, but the best time to visit is during the spring and summer months (October to April), when the weather is mild and the water ow is at its peak.
Drive or Walk?
If you have time, walking from town is a pleasant way to enjoy the surrounding scenery. However, if you’re short on time or looking for a quick visit, driving to the trailhead will save you time.
Family-Friendly
This is a perfect hike for families with small children or those looking for an easy, scenic excursion.
Hire a photographer
Contracting a professional photographer for your hike is an incredible way to elevate your experience. Not only will they capture the stunning landscapes and personal moments that dene your journey, but their expertise in lighting, composition, and creative perspectives ensures your photos are far beyond ordinary. By handling the photography, they allow you to fully immerse yourself in the hike without the worry of getting the perfect shot, leaving you with high-quality, professionally edited images that will become lasting memories.
