Laguna Ilón to Rocca Hut
This traverse is an intimate encounter with the colossal Mount Tronador (“The Thunderer”). The route offers a spectacular immersion into the heart of Nahuel Huapi National Park, combining the serene beauty of high-altitude lakes with the commanding sight of massive hanging glaciers.
Duration: 3 days
Difficulty: Medium / High
Day 1: The Gateway – From Pampa Linda to the Cozy Ilón Hut (Approx. 4 hours)
We begin with a transfer from Bariloche to Pampa Linda, the entry portal to Tronador. The trek starts flat until we reach the swinging bridge over the Alerce River. Next, we face a section of steep ascent through the forest. The reward is immediate: the first imposing views of Mount Tronador. After reaching the high-altitude wetlands (mallines), the trail guides us through the woods to our stop for the first night: the cozy Laguna Illón Hut.
Day 2: The Epic Day – La Marca Pass and the Double Summit Push (Approx. 8 hours)
This is the most spectacular day of the traverse. After breakfast, we start by skirting Laguna Illón to reach La Marca Pass. From this point, the view is absolutely unbeatable: Tronador is revealed in all its glory, showcasing its massive glaciers and the surrounding valleys. We then make a strategic descent to the valley floor, followed by a second and crucial effort: the climb up the slopes of Cerro Constitución. This ascent will demand physical and mental resilience! Once at the highest point, Tronador dazzles us once more. We then begin a long, gradual descent through a low-lying lenga forest, until we reach the comfort of the historic A. Rocca Hut.
Day 3: Panoramic Descent and Native Forest Return (Approx. 6 hours)
Enjoy breakfast with dreamy views from the Rocca Hut. We begin our descent, traversing the high mallines before entering the forest. After the first hour of gentle descent, the path becomes steeper, leading us to the valley floor. From there, we enjoy approximately 3 hours of relaxing trekking through the lush native coihue forest. The trail guides us smoothly to the crossing of the Overá River and, finally, to Pampa Linda, where our transfer awaits for the triumphant return to Bariloche.
