Hiking Trails: San Carlos de Bariloche
San Carlos de Bariloche, nestled in the heart of Nahuel Huapi National Park, is a hiker's paradise. Surrounded by majestic mountains, pristine lakes, and dense Patagonian forests, it offers an incredible array of trails for all abilities. Discover breathtaking panoramic views, ancient coihue trees, and the invigorating fresh air of the Andes.
Updated for 2025–2026 Season10 min read
Overview
The hiking scene in Bariloche is incredibly diverse, ranging from easy strolls along lake shores to challenging multi-day alpine treks. Most trails are well-marked and maintained within the national park, providing access to stunning viewpoints, charming refugios (mountain huts), and crystal-clear lakes. A car rental is highly recommended for accessing many remote trailheads, offering unparalleled flexibility to explore the region's vast natural beauty beyond public transport routes.
Bariloche offers a wide spectrum of hiking difficulties, catering to all levels from easy, family-friendly walks along the lakeshores to strenuous, multi-day alpine expeditions. While many popular trails are well-marked and maintained, higher-altitude and more remote routes demand significant physical fitness, proper gear, and navigational skills. Always assess your abilities honestly and choose trails accordingly.
Trails
Refugio Frey (Cerro Catedral Base)
hardout-and-backPermit RequiredDistance
20 km
Elevation Gain
+950m
Duration
6-8 hours
Type
out-and-back
This iconic Bariloche trek leads to the picturesque Refugio Frey, situated by Toncek Lagoon amidst dramatic granite spires. The trail offers a varied landscape from lush forest paths to challenging rock scrambles, culminating in an unforgettable alpine experience.
Highlights
Waypoints
Cerro Catedral Base
0 km from start · +0m · 0 hours
The starting point for the trek, accessible by bus or car.
Van Titter Lagoon
4 km from start · +100m · 1h 30min
The first major lake reached, offering pleasant views before the main ascent.
Valle del Arroyo Toncek
8 km from start · +400m · 3h 30min
A beautiful valley section with river crossings, signaling the approach to higher altitudes.
Refugio Frey
10 km from start · +950m · 5 hours
The mountain hut and destination, offering incredible views of Toncek Lagoon and the surrounding peaks.
- • Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support
- • Layers (thermal base, fleece, waterproof/windproof shell)
- • Trekking poles
- • Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses
- • Minimum 2 liters of water
- • High-energy snacks
- • First-aid kit
- • Headlamp (if starting early or finishing late)
Permit Required: Yes — Day hikers should register their trek online with the National Parks system (trekking.parquesnacionales.gob.ar). Overnight stays at Refugio Frey or nearby camping require a reservation made well in advance through Club Andino Bariloche.
Trailhead Access: The trailhead is located at the base of Cerro Catedral ski resort. It's easily accessible by local bus (Line 55) from Bariloche city center. A car rental offers flexibility for early starts or late finishes, with ample parking available. The road to Cerro Catedral is paved and in excellent condition.
Water Availability: Several stream crossings allow for filtering water; potable water is available for purchase at Refugio Frey. Always carry sufficient water.
Camping Options: Camping is permitted near Refugio Frey, but requires prior registration and reservation through the Club Andino Bariloche website. Limited capacity.
Best Months: December, January, February, March
Cerro Llao Llao (Parque Municipal Llao Llao)
easyloopDistance
6 km
Elevation Gain
+200m
Duration
2-3 hours
Type
loop
A gentle and highly rewarding hike within the Llao Llao Municipal Park, perfect for families or a leisurely outing. The trail culminates in stunning panoramic views of Lake Nahuel Huapi, Lake Moreno, and the iconic Hotel Llao Llao.
Highlights
Waypoints
Parque Municipal Llao Llao Entrance
0 km from start · +0m · 0 hours
The main entrance to the park and start of the trail.
Mirador Lago Nahuel Huapi
1.5 km from start · +50m · 45 min
A picturesque viewpoint overlooking the vast Nahuel Huapi lake.
Cumbre Cerro Llao Llao
3 km from start · +200m · 1h 30min
The summit offers a breathtaking 360-degree panorama of the lakes and mountains.
Arrayanes Path Junction
4.5 km from start · +150m · 2h 15min
A section through a beautiful Arrayanes forest before returning.
- • Comfortable walking shoes or light hiking boots
- • Light jacket or fleece
- • Water bottle
- • Sunscreen and hat
Permit Required: No
Trailhead Access: The trailhead is located near the famous Hotel Llao Llao, at the end of Circuito Chico. It's easily reachable by local bus (Line 20) from Bariloche city center. Car rental provides the most convenient access and is highly recommended for exploring the entire Circuito Chico. The road is paved and well-maintained.
Water Availability: No natural water sources suitable for drinking on the trail. Carry sufficient water for the duration of your hike.
Camping Options: No camping is permitted within Parque Municipal Llao Llao.
Best Months: October, November, December, January, February, March, April
Refugio Otto Meiling (Cerro Tronador)
hardout-and-backPermit RequiredDistance
14 km
Elevation Gain
+1000m
Duration
8-10 hours
Type
out-and-back
A challenging yet immensely rewarding trek to Refugio Otto Meiling, perched high on the slopes of Cerro Tronador, an imposing glacier-clad volcano. This route offers unparalleled close-up views of glaciers and stunning high-alpine landscapes, culminating in an awe-inspiring experience.
Highlights
Waypoints
Pampa Linda
0 km from start · +0m · 0 hours
The starting point for the hike, located deeper within Nahuel Huapi National Park.
Mirador del Viento
3 km from start · +250m · 1h 30min
A windy viewpoint offering initial glimpses of Tronador and its glaciers.
Cuesta del Tronador
5 km from start · +700m · 3h 30min
The most strenuous part of the climb, a steep ascent through rocky terrain.
Refugio Otto Meiling
7 km from start · +1000m · 5 hours
The mountain hut offering incredible views and a resting point on Tronador's slopes.
- • Mountaineering boots or sturdy, waterproof hiking boots
- • Warm layers (thermal, fleece, waterproof/windproof jacket and pants)
- • Gaiters (especially for early/late season snow)
- • Trekking poles (essential for descent)
- • Sun protection (high UV at altitude and glacier glare)
- • Plenty of water and high-energy food
- • Crampons/ice axe (may be required depending on conditions/route; inquire locally)
Permit Required: Yes
Trailhead Access: Access to Pampa Linda requires a car or organized tour/transfer due to its remote location. The gravel road to Pampa Linda has specific one-way traffic hours, typically outbound in the morning and inbound in the afternoon, with a window for transit. Car rental is essential for independent travel and flexibility. The gravel road is generally well-maintained but can be dusty.
Water Availability: Limited natural water sources on the ascent; carry ample water for the challenging climb. Water is available at Refugio Otto Meiling.
Camping Options: Limited camping is allowed near Pampa Linda or by reservation at Refugio Otto Meiling. Always check with National Park authorities for current regulations.
Best Months: January, February, March
Refugio Laguna Negra (Tambor Tambor)
hardout-and-backPermit RequiredDistance
20 km
Elevation Gain
+800m
Duration
7-9 hours
Type
out-and-back
This strenuous yet incredibly scenic hike guides you through lush Patagonian forests and along the roaring Goyen River valley, culminating at the serene Laguna Negra, overlooked by the Refugio Italia and impressive granite peaks. It's a classic Bariloche multi-day option or a long, demanding day hike.
Highlights
Waypoints
Tambor Tambor Trailhead
0 km from start · +0m · 0 hours
The starting point for the trek, marked by a parking area near the river.
First Bridge over Goyen River
2 km from start · +50m · 45 min
An early river crossing, often a good spot to filter water.
Cascada de los Duendes
5 km from start · +200m · 2 hours
A beautiful waterfall, offering a refreshing stop.
Canyon Section
8 km from start · +600m · 4 hours
A more challenging section where the trail navigates a steep, rocky canyon.
Laguna Negra & Refugio Italia
10 km from start · +800m · 5 hours
The destination: a stunning glacial lake with a mountain hut, perfect for resting or an overnight stay.
- • Waterproof hiking boots
- • Trekking poles (highly recommended for river crossings and steep sections)
- • Rain jacket and pants
- • Warm layers
- • Water filter/purification tablets
- • Plenty of high-energy snacks
- • First-aid kit
- • Headlamp
Permit Required: Yes
Trailhead Access: The Tambor Tambor trailhead is located a few kilometers past Colonia Suiza, requiring a car or taxi/remise from Bariloche. There is no direct public bus service to this specific trailhead. The road beyond Colonia Suiza is gravel, but generally passable for most vehicles. Car rental is highly recommended for convenient access.
Water Availability: Abundant water sources from the Goyen River and its tributaries along the trail. Always filter or purify water before drinking. Water is available at Refugio Italia.
Camping Options: Camping is allowed near Refugio Italia (Laguna Negra) with prior registration and reservation through the Club Andino Bariloche website.
Best Months: December, January, February, March
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Build My Packing ListSafety Tips
- 1Always register your hiking plans with the National Park system (trekking.parquesnacionales.gob.ar), especially for longer or overnight treks.
- 2Check weather forecasts thoroughly before departing; mountain conditions can change rapidly and unexpectedly.
- 3Carry sufficient water, high-energy food, and a comprehensive first-aid kit on all hikes.
- 4Dress in multiple layers, including waterproof and windproof outerwear, regardless of the initial forecast.
- 5Stick to marked trails to avoid getting lost and minimize environmental impact.
- 6Inform someone of your itinerary and expected return time.
- 7Be aware of local wildlife; while rare, pumas inhabit the area. Make noise and avoid hiking alone at dawn/dusk in remote areas.
- 8Carry a fully charged cell phone and a portable power bank for emergencies.
- 9Consider hiring a local guide for challenging routes or if you lack experience in mountainous terrain.
Emergency Contacts
Rescue Service
Club Andino Bariloche (CAX) Rescue: +54 294 442-2796 / General Emergencies: 103
Park Rangers
Parque Nacional Nahuel Huapi Information: +54 294 442-3118
Nearest Hospital
Hospital Zonal 'Dr. Ramón Carrillo' (Bariloche): +54 294 443-6100
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to hike alone in Bariloche?
While many trails are popular and generally safe, it's always advisable to hike with a companion, especially on longer or more remote routes. Always register your trek and inform someone of your plans if hiking solo.
Do I need to carry water on all trails?
Yes, always carry sufficient water. While some trails have natural water sources, it's crucial to filter or purify any water from streams or lakes before drinking to avoid contamination. For shorter, easy hikes, carrying enough bottled water is usually sufficient.
What is the best time of year for hiking in Bariloche?
The peak hiking season is during the Southern Hemisphere summer, from December to March. During these months, trails are generally clear of snow, weather is more stable, and all services are fully operational. Shoulder seasons (November and April) can also be good, but expect cooler temperatures and a higher chance of rain or early/late snow.
Are there any entrance fees for Nahuel Huapi National Park?
As of recent updates, there is no general entrance fee to Nahuel Huapi National Park for most areas. However, specific attractions or certain access points (like the road to Pampa Linda near Tronador) may have a separate payment for vehicle entry or conservation efforts. Always check current regulations before your visit.
Can I do multi-day hikes in Bariloche?
Absolutely! Bariloche is famous for its multi-day 'circuits' connecting various mountain refugios (huts). Popular options include the 'Travesía de los 5 Refugios' or individual overnight stays at Refugio Frey, Laguna Negra, or Jakob. These require reservations, proper gear, and good physical condition.
What should I do if I encounter wildlife?
Maintain a respectful distance from all wildlife. While encounters with larger animals like pumas are rare, if you see one, do not run; make yourself look big, make noise, and back away slowly. Always keep food secured to avoid attracting animals.
Are the trails well-marked?
Most popular trails within Nahuel Huapi National Park are generally well-marked with signs, cairns, and painted blazes. However, conditions can vary, especially after bad weather. Always carry a physical map, compass, or a reliable GPS app as a backup.
Do I need a car to access trailheads?
While some popular trailheads (like Cerro Llao Llao or Cerro Catedral base) are accessible by local bus, many of the more spectacular or remote trails require a car or organized transport. Renting a car in Bariloche is highly recommended for maximum flexibility and to explore a wider range of hiking options.