Hidden Gems: Parque Pumalín Douglas Tompkins

Why it's hidden: It requires a short, unmaintained hike off a secondary gravel road, often overlooked by tourists rushing to the more publicized viewpoints.

How to find it: From the Caleta Gonzalo sector, drive south approximately 15 km on the R7. Look for a small, unmarked turn-off to the east (left) just past the turn for the 'Mirador Chaitén' trail. The gravel track is narrow and can be overgrown. Park carefully at the end of the drivable section (about 1.5 km in). From there, a faint, unmarked trail leads through dense forest for about 20 minutes to the falls. Keep an ear out for the sound of the water. Road conditions are generally good gravel but the turn-off is easy to miss.

Best time: Late spring (November) to early autumn (April) when water flow is strong and trails are less muddy.

Why it's hidden: Located in the park's lesser-visited southern sector, requiring a significant drive and a moderate, slightly uphill hike from the main road.

How to find it: From Villa Santa Lucía, head north on the R7 (Carretera Austral) for about 30 km. Look for a small, wooden sign (often faded) indicating 'Sendero Alerce' on your right. Parking is a small gravel pull-off. The trail itself is well-marked initially but becomes steeper and more rugged towards the viewpoint (approx. 1.5 hours round trip). The R7 here is a good gravel road, generally well-maintained.

Best time: Clear days, especially in autumn (March-April) for vibrant foliage, or spring (October-November) for lush greenery.

Why it's hidden: The approach involves navigating a rougher section of road and a longer, less-trafficked trail, deterring most day-trippers.

How to find it: From Caleta Gonzalo, drive south on the R7 for approximately 25 km, past the main Río Gonzalo bridge. Look for a small, gravel track veering west (right) immediately after a small, unmarked culvert. This track leads about 3 km to a rudimentary trailhead. Parking is limited to a small cleared area. The trail to Laguna Abismo is approximately 3-4 hours one-way, crossing some boggy sections and small streams. The initial gravel track can be rough, requiring a high-clearance vehicle, though 4x4 isn't strictly necessary in dry conditions.

Best time: Summer (January-February) for the best weather conditions and longer daylight hours.

Why it's hidden: Requires a detour off the main road and a short, unmaintained walk through dense coastal vegetation. Not signposted for tourists.

How to find it: From the Carretera Austral (R7) between Caleta Gonzalo and Chaitén, roughly 35 km south of Caleta Gonzalo, look for a very subtle pull-off on the western side of the road (right when heading south). There might be a small pile of rocks. Park here. A narrow, sometimes overgrown path descends for about 10-15 minutes through the forest to the small beach. Road conditions on the R7 are good gravel.

Best time: Any clear day. Early morning for reflections and fewer winds.

Why it's hidden: A newer trail, not heavily promoted, and often overshadowed by the park's more 'dramatic' attractions. Requires a bit of local knowledge to find the trailhead.

How to find it: Located north of the Vodudahue ferry crossing. If coming from Caleta Gonzalo, after disembarking the ferry at Vodudahue, proceed about 5 km south on the gravel road. The trailhead is marked by a rustic, hand-painted sign on the left (east) side of the road. Parking is a small dirt pull-off. The trail is well-defined but can be muddy (approx. 1 hour round trip). The road from Vodudahue is gravel and can be uneven in places.

Best time: Overcast or misty days enhance the 'ghostly' atmosphere.

Why it's hidden: Not an official CONAF (park service) campground, known mostly to local fishermen and experienced Patagonian adventurers. Requires a good map and an adventurous spirit.

How to find it: Accessible from the park's northernmost sector, near El Amarillo. Head north from El Amarillo on a smaller, unpaved road towards the coast. After about 10 km, the road narrows and becomes rougher. Look for a small, almost imperceptible turn-off on your left that leads down a steep, short track to the campsite. A 4x4 is highly recommended for this section, especially after rain. Limited parking at the site. The viewpoint is a short walk from the camping area.

Best time: Summer months (December-February) for camping and clear skies.