The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Viedma Lake
4.7
(2371)
14,868
hikers
11
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Viedma Lake are set within Los Glaciares National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Argentina's Santa Cruz province. The region is characterized by dramatic glacial landscapes, including the Viedma Glacier and its turquoise lake, framed by towering peaks like Mount Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre. Trails often wind through extensive lenga forests and offer views of glacial valleys, providing diverse terrain for hikers.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Viedma Lake
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Mirador de Los Cóndores y Mirador de Las Águilas — circular en el parque nacional Los Glaciares, an easy 3.3 miles (5.3 km) trail that takes 1 hour 36 minutes to complete. This circular path offers varied terrain and sweeping views of Mount Fitz Roy.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Mirador de los Cóndores Trail, an easy 1.7 miles (2.8 km) path. This shorter hike provides panoramic views in less than an hour, suitable for families.
- Local hikers also love the Laguna Torre Trail, a 10.9 miles (17.5 km) trail leading through glacial valleys and lenga forests, often completed in about 4 hours 57 minutes.
- Hiking around Viedma Lake is defined by immense glaciers, stunning turquoise lakes, and dramatic mountain scenery. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy family walks to more challenging treks.
- The routes in Viedma Lake are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from more than 2,100 reviews. More than 13,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Viedma Lake's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
4.9
(194)
1,511
hikers
20.5km
07:44
1,160m
1,160m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4.7
(61)
367
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.7
(22)
264
hikers
2.75km
00:53
110m
110m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(790)
4,942
hikers
17.5km
04:57
360m
360m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(412)
2,573
hikers
20.4km
06:07
500m
500m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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Tips from the Community
One of the best natural viewpoints in Los Glaciares National Park. After the climb, you can enjoy sweeping views of Fitz Roy, Cerro Torre, and the glacial valleys, with the feeling of standing on an endless lookout. A perfect place to sit, feel the Patagonian wind, and spend some time contemplating the landscape.
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The Torre Lookout is one of the most iconic spots in Los Glaciares National Park. From here, you can enjoy an unparalleled view of the Adela mountain range, the majestic Cerro Torre, and the sharp granite spires that surround it. An interpretive sign from the park helps identify each peak, making this a perfect place to rest and enjoy the scenery before continuing your journey to Lake Torre.
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The Margarita Waterfall Lookout offers a spectacular panoramic view of the Solo, Torre, and Chaltén hills, as well as the Adela mountain range, one of Patagonia's most iconic landscapes. From this vantage point, you can also appreciate the elegant cascade of Margarita Waterfall across the river. The trail is short and easy, ideal for enjoying breathtaking views without much effort, although appropriate footwear is recommended due to the uneven terrain.
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Unfortunately, entry to Los Glaciares National Park is no longer free. Either set off early in the morning before the park rangers arrive, or ideally, purchase a three-day flex ticket online. This is considerably cheaper than multiple day tickets and, unlike day tickets, is not tied to a specific entrance. Since the tickets are usually only glanced at, not scanned, the three-day ticket is sufficient, as it is valid for six months and the three days (or entries) do not have to be on consecutive days. ... Tickets can be purchased here: https://www.argentina.gob.ar/interior/ambiente/parquesnacionales/tarifas And here the details regarding the tickets and their validity are explained much more clearly: https://noticias.santacruz.gob.ar/gestion/produccion/secretaria-de-turismo/item/31943-conoce-el-tarifario-y-beneficios-para-el-ingreso-al-parque-nacional-los-glaciares
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At 6pm there were no more checks. The day before we tried at 5pm and the ranger still wanted the full 45 euros per person.
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The peaks are often covered in fog or clouds
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Entry to Los Glaciares National Park currently costs 45 euros per person per day. This makes some hikers early risers. Others do evening hikes.
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The hike from El Chalten to Laguna Torre is beautiful and recommended from the first step! The reward for the partly steep passages comes after the last climb, because then the Laguna Torre comes into view against the spectacular mountain backdrop. Chunks of ice float in the water. You can find a place to take a break on the bank and let the atmosphere work its magic on you.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are there around Viedma Lake?
Our guide features 11 family-friendly hiking routes around Viedma Lake, with 6 of them specifically rated as easy, making them perfect for families with children.
What kind of landscapes can we expect on family hikes around Viedma Lake?
Family hikes around Viedma Lake offer stunning glacial landscapes, towering peaks, and the striking turquoise waters of the lake itself. You'll often find trails winding through extensive lenga forests, providing dramatic views of mountains like Mount Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre, and even glimpses of the impressive Viedma Glacier.
Are there easy, short hiking trails suitable for families with young children?
Yes, there are several easy and shorter options. For example, the Mirador de los Cóndores Trail is an easy 2.7 km hike that offers panoramic views in less than an hour, making it ideal for families with young children.
What are some good circular routes for families around Viedma Lake?
A great circular option for families is the Mirador de Los Cóndores y Mirador de Las Águilas trail. This 5.3 km loop offers varied terrain and sweeping views of Mount Fitz Roy and El Chaltén, providing a rewarding experience for the whole family.
What is the best time to visit Viedma Lake for family hiking?
The best time for family hiking around Viedma Lake is generally during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn (November to April). During this period, the weather is milder, trails are more accessible, and the days are longer, allowing for more comfortable and enjoyable outdoor adventures.
Are permits required for family hikes in Los Glaciares National Park?
Many of the trails around Viedma Lake are located within Los Glaciares National Park. While access to some popular trails from El Chaltén is generally free, it's always advisable to check with the park authorities or local visitor centers for the most current information regarding permits or entry fees, especially for specific activities or longer treks.
Can we bring our dog on family hikes around Viedma Lake?
Los Glaciares National Park, where many of these trails are located, generally has strict regulations regarding pets to protect the native wildlife and environment. It is usually not permitted to bring dogs on trails within the national park. Always check specific trail rules or local regulations before planning to hike with your dog.
What kind of wildlife might we see on family hikes around Viedma Lake?
While hiking, families might spot local wildlife such as guanacos grazing in open areas, and if you're lucky, you might catch a glimpse of condors soaring high above the mountains. The region is also home to pumas, though they are much more elusive.
Where can we find amenities or supplies near the hiking trails?
The nearby town of El Chaltén, known as the 'National Capital of Trekking,' serves as the primary hub for hikers exploring Viedma Lake and Los Glaciares National Park. It provides a range of amenities including supplies, guides, restaurants, and various accommodations.
What do other hikers enjoy most about family-friendly trails around Viedma Lake?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.69 stars. Reviewers often praise the breathtaking panoramic views of the mountains and glaciers, the well-maintained paths, and the opportunity to experience Patagonia's dramatic natural beauty in an accessible way for all ages.
Are there any trails that offer views of the Viedma Glacier?
While many trails offer distant mountain views, direct views of the Viedma Glacier are often best experienced via boat tours on Viedma Lake. However, some longer, more challenging trails in the region, such as the Ruta a la Loma del Pliegue Tumbado, can offer distant but spectacular perspectives of the glacial landscape and surrounding peaks.
Most popular routes around Viedma Lake
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