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Hikes/Peru/Huaraz
Lake Uruscocha

Lake Uruscocha Route Guide

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Hard
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
640 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
12.4 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
4-5.5h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
10.0 (9 reviews)
Intermediate (Square)
Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
Physical DIFF
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
Technical DIFF
Directions to Trailhead
Google Maps
Apple Maps
See Map
Measurement:

Table of contents

Travel deep into the forest and farther away from civilization on this relatively off-the-beaten-path. Eventually, you’ll reach the first lake before hiking for another 10 minutes to Lake Uruscocha, nestled in a grove of trees. Among the lakes, expect to marvel at views of the Hualcan Copa, Huascaran, and Urus mountains.

Route Description for Lake Uruscocha

Hiking to Lake Uruscocha will not only unveil stunning views of two lakes but of mountain ranges towering high. However, it can be tricky trying to find the trailhead. Therefore, it may be best to ask a local for detailed directions before you make the drive to Cochapampa or hire a guide to take you on this route.

This hike takes you to magnificent views of lakes surrounded by flora, while birds chirp in the background. It’s like entering a fairytale storybook, one where the characters discover a quiet spot away from the hustle and bustle of a civilization hundreds of kilometres away.

After following a wide path, the forest will envelop you with its fresh air and hushed atmosphere. Around 2 hours after departing the trailhead, you’ll reach the first lake—admire it before moving onto the second lake. To get there, take a small path from the left side of the first lake. Enjoy the views and go back the way you came.

If you’re planning on driving here from Huaraz, go through the valley Callejón de Huaylas until you reach Paltay, where the paved road transforms into a dirt road. Pass through Pashpa, and eventually, you reach Cochapampa (3,360 m). The drive takes a little over an hour.

Find even more great hikes in Huaraz:

Insider Hints for Lake Uruscocha

  • It is recommended to bring water from the city, some visitors consume it from the lake, but you will need to treat the water first.
  • Pack snacks and lunch before you depart. You won’t find any food stops at the trailhead or en route.
  • It is recommended to visit with a guide or someone who knows the path—it’s not easy to locate the start of the hike.

Getting to the Lake Uruscocha Trailhead

The hike starts in Cochapampa.

Route Information for Lake Uruscocha

  • When to do:

    April - October

  • Backcountry Campsites:

    No

  • Family friendly:

    Yes

  • Route Signage:

    None

  • Crowd Levels:

    Low

  • Route Type:

    Out and back

Lake Uruscocha Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

Check Area Weather

Reviews for Lake Uruscocha

10.0
9 reviews
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HugomathiasJuly 2020

Stunning views with both sun and shade. Lake is very quiet.

Overall Rating
10
Technical Difficulty
Intermediate (Square)
Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
Physical Difficulty
Intermediate (Square)
Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
Doris A.July 2020

This hike is filled with amazing lakes, forest and mountains. It's definitely worth doing!

Overall Rating
10
Technical Difficulty
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
Physical Difficulty
Intermediate (Square)
Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
Luciana GutierrezJune 2020

There are amazing views and wildflowers to see along the trail. Spring is the best time to do this hike.

Overall Rating
10
Technical Difficulty
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
Physical Difficulty
Intermediate (Square)
Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
Josiah GoleSeptember 2019

Finding the trailhead was quite tricky. We needed to ask some locals to confirm if we're heading in the right direction. Overall it's a great hike not to be missed.

Overall Rating
10
Technical Difficulty
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
Physical Difficulty
Intermediate (Square)
Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
Abigail H.August 2019

Fantastic views for a relatively moderate hike.

Overall Rating
10
Technical Difficulty
Intermediate (Square)
Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
Physical Difficulty
Intermediate (Square)
Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
Marilyn H.July 2019

Nice view of the green lake and snowy mountains. It was so peaceful.

Overall Rating
10
Technical Difficulty
Intermediate (Square)
Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
Physical Difficulty
Intermediate (Square)
Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
Charles PawnJuly 2019

Epic views at the top. Started at 6:15am and got to finish it before 12nn. Definitely worth it.

Overall Rating
10
Technical Difficulty
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
Physical Difficulty
Intermediate (Square)
Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
Theresa G.June 2019

The fresh air was fantastic. The best thing about it is that there is not much crowd!

Overall Rating
10
Technical Difficulty
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
Physical Difficulty
Intermediate (Square)
Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
Justine D.July 2018

Incredible vistas and lake. It was a great experience.

Overall Rating
10
Technical Difficulty
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
Physical Difficulty
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.

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Last Updated: May 26, 2026

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