Piedras Coloradas

In the commune of Lonquimay, on the way to Mitrauquén, lies Piedras Coloradas: a reddish rock formation little known outside the area. The trail is short but has demanding, steep stretches in several sections, so we recommend taking it slow and staying well hydrated. A great half-day outing to combine with another destination in the Malalcahuello-Lonquimay area, such as Lonquimay Volcano or the nearby hot springs.

🥾 Trekking info

Distance: 3 km (round trip) Technical difficulty: Easy. Maximum altitude: 980–989 m a.s.l. Route type: Out-and-back, same trail. Elevation gain: +377, -6.

🌿 Flora, fauna & fungi

The plant landscape stands out for the transition between Andean forests and shrubland adapted to iron-oxide-rich volcanic soils; you can spot araucaria or pewen, lenga, michay or calafate, chaura, azaras, and wild orchids. The area's wildlife includes elusive mammals and high-mountain birds keeping watch over the rocky cliffs: Andean condor, puma, Magellanic woodpecker, monito del monte, and culpeo fox. The high humidity of the Araucanía Andina region during fall makes the Piedras Coloradas trail an excellent destination for mushroom spotting.

💡 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: Keep in mind that the hike to the lookout/lagoon involves a significant level of physical demand. 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.

📍 Destination area

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Upcoming trips to Piedras Coloradas