Cerro Lopez Trail

Dogs Unknown

Features Birding · Lake · Views · Waterfall · Wildlife

Though there is decent footing, you'd have to be insane to undertake this one running. Also, a few sections need to be climbed.

From the parking lot, start the trail in thick, lush forest. After a third of a mile, give your burning calves a break and take some photos of the waterfalls. The forest becomes drier, and the views begin to open up.

After another mile, you come to a stream crossing. Continue up some switchbacks until you finally arrive at the colorful Refugio Lopez (a classic South American mountain refuge). You can make arrangements to stay the night here - click here for more information on making reservations.

At 2.25 miles, you'll arrive a La Hoya (the pit), a small mountain lake. From here, the trail can get a bit more serious. Look for the spray-painted markings to tell you where to go up. Keep your head, and you are at the summit in no time. After taking in the spectacular views, simply return the same way that you came.

Two types of Southern Beech trees, Patagonian cypress, condors.