(Photo: Refugio Frey)
This website has been going since 2006, but as I no longer live in Bariloche I find it more and more difficult to keep it updated.
You may find alternative and more up to date trekking information on this website: https://www.barilochetrekking.com/en/.
Since 2006; the first online english language guide to trekking in the Nahuel Huapi National Park, San Carlos de Bariloche, Patagonia, Argentina. This site is designed to give all the information you need to plan a route on the main treks in Bariloche's Nahuel Huapi National park. Each trek is split into individual sections as there are many different trails to and from the refugios. If you have any questions or find any out of date info on the site please contact me.
The trekking season in Bariloche is from December to March; the majority of the mountain refuges are open between October/Novermber to April each year with the exception of Refugio Frey which is open year round and caters for backcountry skiiers and mountaineers during the winter months. There is usually snow on the high passes in late November and sometimes even into December meaning that although the refuges may be open and the trails to them are accessible, the trails between the refuges via the high passes will only be accessible to experienced people who are equipped to deal with these snowy conditions. Paso de la Nubes and the Colonia Suiza to Pampa Linda trek will be the last to open (usually in January).
Up to date details can be found at the National Park Office
While trekking these routes, camping is technically only permitted at the refugios. The refuges generally charge a small fee for camping (for use of the toilet facilities). The exception to this is the Pampa Linda to Colonia Suiza trek where wild camping is allowed at specific locations as there are no refuges.
A good place to start. Check out the overview map of the trekking trails.
Bariloche has a network of Mountain Huts (Refugios) the majority are operated by Club Andino Bariloche (C.A.B). They provide basic accommodation (mattresses in large bunk style dormitory) only Refugio Frey can (and must) be booked in advance. All the refuges offer food/drinks/meals and use of the basic kitchen facilities (fee payable).
The information contained on this website is no substitute for a qualified Mountain Guide and the site author accepts no responsibility for inaccurate or outdated information (nor omission of information), nor any accident or injury sustained while carrying out the treks described here. This website has no affiliation to any of the refuges, businesses or organisations named withing it. All times and distances are approximate.