Wednesday, September 01, 2010 3

30. Trek Torres del Paine

On our 2010 Life List: trek Torres del Paine. Alone.

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Torres del Paine

Torres del Paine    Photographer: Michael Hanson

Approximately 130,000 turistas descend annually upon Torres del Paine, the Chilean national park centered on three 7,000-plus-foot granite spires. But most don't stray from the 47-mile circuit known as the W Route, which offers spectacular vistas of the Paine massif—and lookout points clogged with map and camera toters. The forgotten valleys—Valle del Silencio, Valle Bader, and Valle del Pingo—are three granite-wall-and-hanging-glacier-enclosed, wildflower-studded, boot-friendly areas. Trek them in shoulder season (September–October and March–April) and the only people you'll see will be diehard climbers on the Paine spires. Antares Patagonia Adventure, a local outfitter that guides for American companies like Mountain Madness, offers a nine-day trip that includes seven hours of strenuous daily trekking; two nights in climbers' camps; and a few nights of recovery at rustic refugios and classic lodges. (from $1,785; www.antarespatagonia.com).

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Comments

3
Sarah Lavender Smith

Yes, this is on my list already! Our family lived for a month in the Argentina Lake District and we're kicking ourselves we didn't head sound of Santiago to get to here. Check it out: 5 Steps to Get Out of a Rut and Plan a Dream Trip, http://www.therunnerstrip.com/2011/09/5-steps-to-get-out-of-a-rut-and-plan-a-dream-trip/

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kim c ng

Yes, this is a must for a trip to remember for life! My daughter and I did the full circuit in 2009. It is one of 32 listed in the book Classic Treks by Bill Birkett. Do the full circuit and enjoy the spectacular panorama from the John Garner Pass of the vast expanse of the Grey Glacier!

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Turbo

If you head there now take great caution. There are still a lot of serious wildfires. http://chile.usembassy.gov/2012-travel_alert0110.html

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