Ski touring week in El Chalten, Patagonia Sur

Upon arriving in town, we check ski gear and clothing, and adjust the itinerary based on weather conditions to ensure the best possible experience in each location.

Early in the morning, we depart toward the Mosquito Stream valley. Depending on snow conditions, we may need to hike for 30 to 50 minutes carrying skis on our backpacks. We then ascend through the valley, which offers varied orientations and slopes, making it an ideal place to begin the ski week. Return to El Chaltén.

On this day, we travel to the Cerro Crestón valley. After a one-and-a-half-hour drive, we reach the parking area and hike for about 40 minutes to the refuge, where we will spend two nights to fully enjoy the mountain’s possibilities. After settling in and preparing our gear, we go skiing near the glacier. One option is the Central Col and the north shoulder, before returning to the refuge.

From the refuge, we access the Cerro Vespignani valley, a massive Patagonian giant. We head up to the north col, then descend to the Huemul Glacier and begin the ascent of the peak. We later return to the refuge via the Huemul Lagoon.

After breakfast, we head toward the central summit and then ski down the so-called “natural waterfall,” continuing through the Lomo del Refugio valley. At the end of the day, we prepare to return to El Chaltén.

A long day awaits us as we aim to ski near Laguna de los Tres, a classic viewpoint of Mount Fitz Roy. Here, we have several options, such as Cerro Madsen and its southern slopes, which often offer good snow and favorable inclines. We then descend to Poincenot Camp, where we spend the night.

After breakfast, we return to Laguna de los Tres and head toward the French Valley viewpoint, a panoramic spot overlooking the massif and Laguna Sucia with its immense glacier. At the end of the day, we return to camp and continue toward El Chaltén.