Laguna de los Tres and Cerro Madsen Hike

Route Description for Laguna de los Tres and Cerro Madsen Hike

While it may be a physically demanding excursion in Los Glaciares National Park, the Laguna de los Tres and Cerro Madsen Hike will certainly wow you with some spectacular views of the surrounding Patagonian landscape. Glacial lakes, rugged alpine terrain, and step uphill climbs characterize this incredible adventure in the wilds of Argentina.

Setting out from the trailhead in El Chaltén, you will make your way to the northwest by immediately climbing uphill to the Mirador Río de las Vueltas. After taking in the views overlooking the river, continue along the trail as it leads toward the Mirador Fitz Roy and Laguna Capri.

At this point the trail runs parallel to a stream known as Chorillo del Salto, eventually passing by a series of campgrounds before turning more to the west. Here, the route will begin to climb more sharply uphill as you make the approach to the shores of Laguna de los Tres.

Most other hikers will likely end their adventure here after taking in the views of the serene glacial lake; however, this route continues on to the right along the shoreline. Just after leaving the edge of the water behind, the trail will begin to climb up the steep mountainside.

Here, you will need to clamber up the rocky terrain, following the path as it bends northwest enroute to the summit of Cerro Madsen. Once there, you will enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding Patagonian landscape that includes rugged peaks, glaciers, and pristine lakes.

Once you have caught your breath and enjoyed the views, carefully make your way downhill along the same path, retracing your steps all the way back to the trailhead where you began your adventure. If you are after a similar hike in Los Glaciares National Park, be sure to check out the Laguna Torre and Cerro Torre Viewpoint Hike.