4 Huts Traverse
The Four Huts Traverse: Bariloche’s Ultimate Trekking Classic (4 Days)
This journey connects the four most iconic mountain huts in Nahuel Huapi National Park, making it a globally renowned classic for trekking enthusiasts. The unique opportunity to sleep in these legendary mountain structures, surrounded by towering peaks, glacial lakes, and valleys, gives this experience an unparalleled and unique value.
Duration: 4 Days/3 Nights
Challenge Level (Physical/Technical): Medium/High
Day 1: Journey Begins – From Catedral to the Legendary Frey Hut (Approx. 4 hours)
We begin with a private transfer to the base of the Catedral Alta Patagonia Ski Center. The trail gently gains elevation through a lush native forest, crossing small streams and following the peaceful Van Titter Stream Valley. As we ascend, the landscape dramatically changes: vegetation recedes to reveal the imposing rock formations of the valley. The final section is a steady, steep climb, rewarding us with the sight of the Frey Spire, Laguna Toncek, and the cozy Emilio Frey Hut (1,700 m.a.s.l.).
Day 2: Catedral’s Ridge and the Brecha Negra Pass (Approx. 8 hours)
This is a day of high-altitude traversing and panoramic views. We circle Laguna Toncek and begin the ascent to the Catedral Ridge (2,000 m.a.s.l.), passing the stunning Laguna Schmoll. From the ridge, we descend into the Rucaco Valley, cross it, and then tackle the climb to Brecha Negra Pass. The subsequent descent through a shifting scree field requires focus but delivers us directly to our destination: Refugio Jakob. If the weather is warm, an invigorating dip in the lagoon is highly recommended!
Day 3: Conquering the Technical Heart of the Traverse (Approx. 10 hours)
This stretch is the most technical and challenging of the four huts traverse. It features sections of light scrambling where using your hands on rock is necessary to reach the summit of Cerro Navidad (2,080 m.a.s.l.). Once past the peak, we descend to the valley floor, follow the Navidad Stream, and ascend the famous “Caracol” (The Snail)—the final climb that leads to our third stop, Refugio Laguna Negra. Feel the satisfaction of completing the traverse’s crux!
Day 4: Summit Glory and Triumphant Return (Approx. 9 hours)
Our final day starts early, circling Laguna Negra across rocky and steep ground. The trek continues upwards over stony terrain, flanking Cerro B. Willis and descending into the Goye Valley. We then face the final push up a pronounced gully to the “Pico Turista” (2,040 m.a.s.l.) on Cerro López. From this high point, it’s all downhill! We take a brief rest at the historic Refugio López before completing the final walk to the trailhead, where our private transfer awaits to take you back to San Carlos de Bariloche.
