Huerquehue National Park

The Los Lagos Trail, located in Huerquehue National Park, is one of the most iconic trekking routes in the Araucanía Region. The route takes you into a mountain landscape combining native forest, waterfalls, lookouts and crystal-clear lakes, making it one of the main natural attractions in the lake district. The park is located in the commune of Pucón, about 135 kilometers from Temuco, and covers roughly 6,474 hectares. It was established as a protected area in 1935 and preserves important ecosystems of the Andes mountain range. The route begins near Lake Tinquilco and quickly gains elevation, heading into native forest. During the climb, several lookouts appear where you can see Lake Tinquilco and, on clear days, Villarrica Volcano. Among the highlights of the route are Nido de Águila and Trufulco waterfalls, which add the constant sound of falling water to the surrounding vegetation. The main reward of the climb is reaching the bodies of water that give the trail its name. Key points of interest include: • Lago Chico: a small mountain lake surrounded by forest, its waters reflecting the vegetation and mountains. • Lago Verde: notable for the color of its waters and the forest surrounding it. • Lago Toro: located at a higher elevation, offering a quieter, more secluded landscape. Laguna de los Patos and Laguna Huerquehue: part of the sectors that can be included in longer circuit routes.

🥾 Trekking info

Distance: 12 km (round trip) Technical difficulty: Moderate. Maximum altitude: 1,300 to 1,450 m a.s.l. Route type: Out-and-back, same trail. Elevation gain: +1037, -1037.

🌿 Flora, fauna & fungi

One of the most striking features of this trail is how the landscape changes as you gain elevation. The route passes through forests featuring species such as araucarias, coigües, lengas, robles, ferns and other species typical of Andean temperate forests. These ecosystems serve as a refuge for numerous wildlife species. Birds found in the park include the Magellanic woodpecker, chucao tapaculo, hued-hued, condor and red-backed hawk, while among amphibians, Darwin's frog stands out — a native species of great conservation importance.

💡 Route tips

We recommend hiking this trail with company, especially if you're not familiar with the route or the terrain conditions. - Footwear: Wear proper trekking shoes, ideally with good grip and a non-slip sole. - Sun protection: Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Sun exposure can be intense even on cloudy days. - Hydration and food: Bring at least 2 liters of water per person. We recommend packing ready-to-eat, easy-to-carry food that provides energy during the activity. - Clothing: Wear appropriate mountain clothing plus an extra warm layer, since temperatures can change along the route. - Safety gear: We recommend trekking poles, a fully charged phone and, if possible, a power bank. A headlamp or flashlight, a small first-aid kit, and basic personal items are also important. - Fitness: Stay hydrated, take breaks when needed, and always move at your own pace, respecting your physical limits. - Planning: Before starting the hike, let someone you trust know your itinerary, and check the weather forecast and trail conditions. - Environmental care: Respect the flora, fauna and trail signage. Don't leave any trash behind, and be sure to carry out everything you bring in.

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Huerquehue National Park

Upcoming trips to Huerquehue National Park