Argentina>Patagonia>ElChalten>Chorrillo del Salto
After our first short hike to Mirador De los Condors, I was feeling as though a further warm up was needed before we attempted a snow-covered ascent on El Chalten’s spectacular, but challenging hike known as Laguna De Los Tres
The day prior to that tough hike the weather was bad with snow falling overnight and into the morning. Around 3pm the weather cleared slightly so I headed out alone for the short hike to Chorrillo del Salto.
Be prepared
It was around 1 degree C when I headed out but I was well equipped with my hiking boots, fleece, down jacket and beanie, all essential items when heading out in Patagonia this time of year (May/June).
Thankfully there had been a few brave souls who ventured out much earlier, this having the effect of clearing, or at least tamping down the snow while also making the trail much clearer. Overall, the snow was relatively patchy, the biggest danger being a few patches of ice.
In the warmer months this hike would be a doddle. There’s a few minor hills to contend with but the path is mostly soil or gravel, with a few tiny bridges to cross. One of these was quite slippery from the ice stuck to the top of it so it pays to take care, no matter how easy they look
Summing up
Overall, the waterfall at the Chorrillo del Salto is nothing amazing (I have high standards) but much of the trail follows the Rio de Las Vueltas offering far better photo ops.
The wonderful Elchalten.com lists this hike as medium difficulty and 3 hours long. At present I’m unfit, suffering through a chest infection, hiking in snow/ice and I easily managed to get there and back in 2 hours, even allowing for several brief photo stops.
If you’re looking to warm-up for a major hike from El Chalten, or if you just want to try out your new outdoor gear, Chorrillo del Salto may be just what you need.