Hiking Trails: Ruta de los Siete Lagos (Seven Lakes Route)
Embark on an unforgettable hiking adventure along Argentina's Ruta de los Siete Lagos, a breathtaking journey through the heart of Patagonia's lake district. This iconic route connects charming mountain towns with pristine national parks, offering a diverse array of trails for every explorer. Discover a landscape sculpted by glaciers, where sapphire lakes meet dense coihue and arrayán forests, and snow-capped peaks provide a dramatic backdrop to your Patagonian odyssey.
Updated for 2025–2026 Season13 min readOverview
The Ruta de los Siete Lagos, nestled in the Neuquén province of Argentina, is renowned not just for its scenic drive but also for its exceptional hiking opportunities. Flanked by Nahuel Huapi and Lanín National Parks, the region boasts a spectrum of trails, from gentle lakeside strolls suitable for families to challenging ascents offering panoramic mountain vistas. Hikers can immerse themselves in ancient forests, discover hidden waterfalls, and reach majestic viewpoints, making it a premier destination for experiencing the raw beauty of Andean Patagonia. Access to many trailheads is easiest by car, allowing for maximum flexibility to explore its hidden gems.
The Ruta de los Siete Lagos region provides a wide range of hiking difficulties, from easy, family-friendly walks to challenging, full-day ascents. Most trails are well-marked, but some require good physical fitness and experience with varied terrain, including steep climbs and potentially rocky paths. Hikers of all levels can find suitable options to explore the stunning Patagonian landscape.
Trails
Cascadas Ñivinco
easyout-and-backDistance
3.5 km
Elevation Gain
+100m
Duration
1-1.5 hours
Type
out-and-back
An easy and rewarding walk directly off the Seven Lakes Route, leading to a series of charming waterfalls cascading through a lush forest. This trail is perfect for families and offers a refreshing stop during your scenic drive. The path is well-maintained and follows the Ñivinco River.
Highlights
Waypoints
Trailhead Parking
0 km from start · +0m · 0 min
Designated parking area right off RN40 (Route 40), with informational signs.
First Waterfall Viewpoint
0.8 km from start · +30m · 20 min
A well-marked viewpoint offering the first glimpse of the cascades.
Second Waterfall & Picnic Area
1.5 km from start · +70m · 40 min
A larger waterfall with space for a short break or picnic.
Upper Falls Access
1.75 km from start · +100m · 50 min
The trail continues slightly uphill to reach the base of the highest cascade.
- • Comfortable walking shoes
- • Light jacket or rain jacket
- • Insect repellent
- • Water bottle
Permit Required: No
Trailhead Access: The trailhead is located directly on National Route 40 (Ruta de los Siete Lagos), approximately halfway between Villa La Angostura and San Martín de los Andes. There's a clear sign and a small parking area. A car is essential to reach this stop.
Water Availability: No reliable potable water sources on the trail; carry your own.
Camping Options: No camping permitted directly on this trail. Several organized campgrounds are available along RN40 within a short drive.
Best Months: October, November, December, January, February, March, April
Mirador Bandurrias
moderateout-and-backDistance
6 km
Elevation Gain
+300m
Duration
2-3 hours
Type
out-and-back
Starting near San Martín de los Andes, this popular trail offers stunning panoramic views of Lago Lácar, the surrounding mountains, and the town itself from a key viewpoint. The hike involves a steady uphill climb through a lovely forest, culminating in one of the most iconic vistas in the region.
Highlights
Waypoints
Trailhead (Playa Catritre access)
0 km from start · +0m · 0 min
Starting point near the entrance to Playa Catritre, south of San Martín de los Andes. Parking available.
Forest Ascent
1.5 km from start · +100m · 45 min
Begin the steady climb through a dense Patagonian forest, mostly shaded.
Mapuche Community Signage
2.5 km from start · +200m · 1h 15min
Area indicating passage through a Mapuche community land (respect local customs).
Mirador Bandurrias Viewpoint
3 km from start · +300m · 1h 45min
The magnificent panoramic viewpoint overlooking Lago Lácar and San Martín de los Andes.
- • Sturdy hiking boots or shoes
- • Layers of clothing (weather can change)
- • Water bottle (at least 1.5L)
- • Snacks
- • Sunscreen and hat
Permit Required: No
Trailhead Access: The trailhead is located a few kilometers south of San Martín de los Andes, near the entrance to Playa Catritre. It is easily accessible by car, and parking is available. Public transport to Catritre exists but is less frequent. Renting a car provides the most convenient access.
Water Availability: No reliable water sources on the trail; carry sufficient water for the round trip.
Camping Options: Playa Catritre offers a managed campground at the base of the trail. Wild camping is not permitted on the Mirador Bandurrias trail itself.
Best Months: October, November, December, January, February, March, April
Bosque de Arrayanes (Arrayanes Forest)
easyout-and-backDistance
12 km
Elevation Gain
+150m
Duration
3-5 hours
Type
out-and-back
A unique trek through a magical forest of cinnamon-barked Arrayán trees, located on the Quetrihué Peninsula within Nahuel Huapi National Park. This easily accessible trail from Villa La Angostura offers a tranquil walk along the lake, culminating in the dense, ancient arrayán grove. You can hike both ways or take a boat for one leg of the journey.
Highlights
Waypoints
Villa La Angostura Port (Trailhead)
0 km from start · +0m · 0 min
Starting point for the hike, near the main port of Villa La Angostura. Informational signs are present.
Mirador Inlakeo
3 km from start · +50m · 1 hour
A viewpoint offering beautiful perspectives of Lago Nahuel Huapi.
Bahía Mansa Access
6 km from start · +100m · 2 hours
Point where the trail descends towards Bahía Mansa, offering lake access.
Bosque de Arrayanes
12 km from start · +150m · 3h 30min
The iconic Arrayán forest, with its unique cinnamon-colored trees and a small teahouse.
- • Comfortable walking shoes or light hiking boots
- • Layers of clothing
- • Rain jacket (weather can be unpredictable)
- • Water and snacks
- • Camera
Permit Required: No
Trailhead Access: The trailhead begins at the port of Villa La Angostura, easily accessible by walking from most parts of town or a short drive. Ample parking is available. While the hike itself doesn't require a permit, the boat trip (optional) to the Arrayanes Forest incurs a fee. A car is recommended for overall flexibility in the region.
Water Availability: No reliable natural water sources. Carry enough water for the entire hike. A teahouse is available at the Arrayanes Forest for refreshments.
Camping Options: No camping is allowed on the Quetrihué Peninsula. Campgrounds are available in and around Villa La Angostura.
Best Months: October, November, December, January, February, March, April
Cerro Colorado (near Villa Traful)
hardout-and-backDistance
10 km
Elevation Gain
+700m
Duration
4-6 hours
Type
out-and-back
This challenging ascent near the scenic town of Villa Traful offers some of the most spectacular 360-degree panoramic views in the region. The trail climbs steadily through a diverse forest, emerging above the treeline to reveal a unique volcanic landscape and sweeping vistas of Lago Traful and surrounding peaks. It's a demanding but highly rewarding trek for experienced hikers.
Highlights
Waypoints
Trailhead (RP 65)
0 km from start · +0m · 0 min
Starting point on Provincial Route 65, several kilometers from Villa Traful. Look for a small sign.
Forest Entrance
1 km from start · +150m · 30 min
The trail enters a dense forest, beginning a continuous climb.
Mid-slope Viewpoint
3 km from start · +400m · 1h 45min
A small clearing offering initial views of the valley and distant peaks.
Treeline Boundary
4.5 km from start · +600m · 3 hours
The forest begins to thin out, transitioning to more open, rocky terrain.
Cerro Colorado Summit
5 km from start · +700m · 3h 30min
The peak with its distinctive reddish rocks, offering unparalleled panoramic views.
- • Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support
- • Warm layers (fleece, down jacket)
- • Waterproof and windproof outer shell
- • Plenty of water (at least 2L per person)
- • High-energy snacks
- • Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat
- • Trekking poles (recommended for descent)
Permit Required: No
Trailhead Access: The trailhead is located on Provincial Route 65 (Ruta Provincial 65), a dirt road connecting Villa Traful to the Seven Lakes Route (RN40). It's best accessed by car, preferably a vehicle with higher clearance, as parts of RP65 can be rough. Parking is informal at the trailhead.
Water Availability: Very limited and unreliable natural water sources, especially during dry periods. It is crucial to carry all necessary water.
Camping Options: No camping allowed on the trail. Villa Traful offers various campgrounds and accommodations.
Best Months: November, December, January, February, March
Sendero de las Huellas (Lago Espejo Chico)
easyloopDistance
2.5 km
Elevation Gain
+50m
Duration
1 hour
Type
loop
A delightful and informative interpretive trail situated around Lago Espejo Chico, a smaller, quieter lake along the Seven Lakes Route. This loop walk guides hikers through the local flora and fauna with descriptive signs, offering gentle terrain and beautiful lakeside views. It's an excellent choice for a relaxed nature walk.
Highlights
Waypoints
Trailhead (Lago Espejo Chico Access)
0 km from start · +0m · 0 min
Located at the public access point and picnic area for Lago Espejo Chico, just off RN40.
Forest Section
0.7 km from start · +20m · 15 min
The trail winds through a beautiful segment of coihue and cypress forest with interpretive panels.
Lakeside Viewpoint
1.5 km from start · +30m · 30 min
Offers lovely views of Lago Espejo Chico and its calm waters.
Return Path Junction
2 km from start · +50m · 45 min
The point where the loop begins to turn back towards the trailhead.
- • Comfortable walking shoes
- • Light layers
- • Camera
- • Binoculars for birdwatching
Permit Required: No
Trailhead Access: The trailhead is situated at the public access point to Lago Espejo Chico, directly off National Route 40 (Ruta de los Siete Lagos). There is a small parking area. A car is necessary for reaching this trailhead as public transport is non-existent.
Water Availability: No potable water on the trail; carry your own. There are picnic facilities near the start.
Camping Options: There are free and paid campsites available at Lago Espejo Chico, managed by local communities.
Best Months: October, November, December, January, February, March, April
Cerro Falkner & Cascada Vullignanco
moderateout-and-backDistance
8 km
Elevation Gain
+450m
Duration
3-4 hours
Type
out-and-back
This trail offers a two-in-one experience: a visit to the powerful Cascada Vullignanco waterfall and an optional, more strenuous climb to a viewpoint on Cerro Falkner. Starting near Lago Falkner, the initial walk to the falls is easy, followed by a steeper ascent through native forest to gain elevation and stunning views of the surrounding lakes and mountains.
Highlights
Waypoints
Trailhead (Lago Falkner Access)
0 km from start · +0m · 0 min
Located near the camping area and public access point for Lago Falkner on RN40.
Cascada Vullignanco
1.5 km from start · +50m · 30 min
The beautiful and powerful waterfall, a great spot for a break.
Cerro Falkner Ascent Start
2 km from start · +70m · 45 min
The trail forks here, with the right path leading to the steeper climb up Cerro Falkner.
Forest Viewpoint
3.5 km from start · +250m · 1h 45min
A clearing offering glimpses of the lakes below as the ascent continues.
Cerro Falkner Upper Viewpoint
4 km from start · +450m · 2h 30min
The highest accessible viewpoint with extensive vistas of Lago Falkner, Lago Villarino, and surrounding peaks.
- • Hiking boots with good grip
- • Layers of clothing (including a wind/rain jacket)
- • Water (at least 1.5L)
- • Snacks
- • Sunscreen and hat
- • Trekking poles for the ascent/descent
Permit Required: No
Trailhead Access: The trailhead is easily found at the public access and camping area for Lago Falkner, directly on National Route 40 (Ruta de los Siete Lagos). There is ample parking. A car is essential for convenient access to this and other points along the route.
Water Availability: Water can be filtered from the Vullignanco stream near the waterfall, but always purify it. Otherwise, carry all necessary water.
Camping Options: There is a well-known managed campground at Lago Falkner offering basic facilities.
Best Months: November, December, January, February, March, April
Drive to the Trailhead
Browse Car RentalsSafety Tips
- 1Always check weather forecasts before heading out; Patagonian weather can change rapidly.
- 2Dress in layers, including waterproof and windproof outerwear, even on sunny days.
- 3Carry sufficient water, snacks, and a first-aid kit.
- 4Inform someone of your hiking plans and estimated return time.
- 5Stay on marked trails to protect the environment and avoid getting lost.
- 6Be aware of local wildlife, particularly pumas, though encounters are rare.
- 7Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace principles).
- 8Wear sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support, especially for moderate to hard trails.
Emergency Contacts
Rescue Service
105 (National Park Rangers - Nahuel Huapi), 107 (Ambulance)
Park Rangers
+54 2944 423111 (Nahuel Huapi National Park office - Bariloche, local offices also exist in Villa La Angostura/San Martín de los Andes)
Nearest Hospital
Hospital Dr. Ramón Carrillo (San Martín de los Andes), Hospital Dr. Oscar Arraiz (Villa La Angostura)
Before you hit the trail: Ruta de los Siete Lagos (Seven Lakes Route)
🥾 More Hiking Trails
📋 Practical Info for Ruta de los Siete Lagos (Seven Lakes Route)
Drive to the Trailhead
Rent a car to access the best hiking trails near Ruta de los Siete Lagos (Seven Lakes Route)
Explore More
Discover more guides and resources for this destination
Destination Guide
Planning
Best Time to Visit
Best Time to Visit Ruta de los Siete Lagos (Seven Lakes Route) 2026 — Month-by-Month Guide
How to Get There
How to Get to Ruta de los Siete Lagos (Seven Lakes Route) 2026 — Flights, Driving & Transport
Budget Guide
Ruta de los Siete Lagos (Seven Lakes Route) on a Budget 2026 — Costs, Tips & Money-Saving Guide
Seasonal Guide
Autumn in Seven Lakes Route: Activities & Events Guide
Seasonal Guide
Spring in Seven Lakes Route: Activities & Events Guide
Seasonal Guide
Summer in Seven Lakes Route: Activities & Events Guide
Seasonal Guide
Winter in Seven Lakes Route: Activities & Events Guide
Travel Tips
Essential Travel Tips for Ruta de los Siete Lagos (Seven Lakes Route) (2026)
Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Ruta de los Siete Lagos (Seven Lakes Route) (2026) — Neighborhoods & Hotels
Weather & Climate
Ruta de los Siete Lagos (Seven Lakes Route) Weather Guide (2026) — Monthly Climate, Temperatures & Best Time
Adventures
Activities
Cycling in Ruta de los Siete Lagos (Seven Lakes Route) 2026 — Best Spots, Tips & What to Expect
Camping Guide
Camping in Seven Lakes Route 2026 — Campsites, Tips & Gear Guide
Day Trips
Best Day Trips from Ruta de los Siete Lagos (Seven Lakes Route) 2026 — Distances & Driving Guide
Hidden Gems
Hidden Gems in Ruta de los Siete Lagos (Seven Lakes Route) (2026) — Secret Spots & Local Tips
Family Guide
Family Travel Guide to Ruta de los Siete Lagos (Seven Lakes Route) (2026) — Kid-Friendly Tips
Culture & Nature
Road Trips
Car Rental
Car Rental in Ruta de los Siete Lagos (Seven Lakes Route) 2026 — Prices, Tips & Road Guide
Road Conditions
Road Conditions in Ruta de los Siete Lagos (Seven Lakes Route) (2026) — Driving Guide & Fuel Stations
Road Trip Itineraries
10-Day Lake District Road Trip — Complete Itinerary 2026
Road Trip Itineraries
21-Day Patagonia Grand Tour — Complete Itinerary 2026
Road Trip Itineraries
7-Day Lake District & Northern Carretera Austral — Road Trip Itinerary 2026
Explore More Guides
View all →Hiking Trails in Aluminé (2026) — Best Hikes, Difficulty & Maps
Hiking Trails in Carretera Austral (2026) — Best Hikes, Difficulty & Maps
Hiking Trails in Caviahue-Copahue (2026) — Best Hikes, Difficulty & Maps
Hiking Trails in Chaitén (2026) — Best Hikes, Difficulty & Maps
Hiking Trails in Chile Chico (2026) — Best Hikes, Difficulty & Maps
Hiking Trails in Chiloé Island (2026) — Best Hikes, Difficulty & Maps
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time of year to hike the Ruta de los Siete Lagos?
The best time to hike is during the austral summer, from December to March, when the weather is warmest, trails are generally clear of snow, and daylight hours are long. The shoulder seasons of November and April also offer good conditions with fewer crowds, though weather can be more unpredictable.
Do I need a permit to hike in the national parks along the route?
For most day hikes, no formal permit is required, and entry to Nahuel Huapi and Lanín National Parks is free. However, for some longer, multi-day treks or backcountry camping, registration with the park authorities is mandatory for safety reasons. Always check with the local park office for specific trail requirements.
Is it necessary to rent a car to access the trailheads?
While some trails (like Bosque de Arrayanes from Villa La Angostura) can be accessed without a car, renting a car is highly recommended. Many trailheads are located directly off National Route 40, offering unparalleled flexibility to explore various trails, viewpoints, and hidden gems at your own pace. Public transport options are limited and infrequent for many trail access points.
What kind of gear should I bring for hiking in Patagonia?
Layered clothing is crucial due to variable weather. Include moisture-wicking base layers, a warm fleece or down jacket, and a waterproof/windproof outer shell. Sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support, a comfortable backpack, plenty of water, high-energy snacks, sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are essential. Trekking poles can be very helpful on steeper terrain.
Are there water sources along the trails?
While some trails may pass by streams or lakes, it's always best to carry enough potable water for your entire hike. If you plan to use natural water sources, always carry a water filter or purification tablets, as direct consumption is not recommended.
What wildlife might I encounter?
The region is home to diverse wildlife. You might spot guanacos, red deer, foxes, and a variety of birds including condors, eagles, and hummingbirds. While rare, pumas inhabit the area, so it's wise to be aware and know basic safety protocols. Keep a respectful distance from all wildlife.
Are there guided hiking tours available?
Yes, guided hiking tours are available from towns like San Martín de los Andes and Villa La Angostura for various trails, including more challenging ones. Guides offer local knowledge, enhance safety, and can provide transportation. This is a great option if you prefer not to drive or hike alone.
Can I camp along the hiking trails?
Designated camping is typically only allowed in established campgrounds, both free (managed by local communities or national parks) and paid. Wild camping directly on most hiking trails is generally not permitted or highly regulated within National Parks. Always check specific regulations for the area you plan to visit, and if permitted, follow Leave No Trace principles strictly.