Hiking Patagonia - W Trek in Chile’s Torres del Paine National Park
Embarking on the W Trek in Chile's Torres del Paine National Park is an unforgettable journey through some of Patagonia's most stunning landscapes. This multi-day hike offers a blend of challenging terrains and breathtaking vistas, making it a bucket-list adventure for trekking enthusiasts.
Overview of the W Trek:
Distance: ~ 80 km
Elevation Gain: Total elevation gain ~ 2,730 m
Duration: 5 day 4 nights
Highlights: Iconic landmarks - base of Torres del Paine, the French Valley, and Grey Lake/Glacier.
Daily Distance: Expect to hike between 12 km - 24 km per day, depending on the itinerary.
Alternative W Trek: You can also complete the W Trek in 3 full days hiking, focusing on the highlights like Grey Glacier, French Valley and the base of the Torres.
Difficulty Level: Moderate-challenging; depends on glamping or camping and suitable for hikers with a reasonable level of fitness.
Best Season: October to April, offering milder weather conditions and longer daylight hours.
The W Trek follows a W-shaped trail through Torres del Paine National Park, covering three major valleys: the Grey Glacier, French Valley, and Base Torres.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival - Trek Paine Grande to Grey Glacier
Distance: ~11 km one way
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Elevation Gain: 400 m
Starting Point: Arrive at Torres del Paine National Park via bus from Puerto Natales.
Highlights:
✔ Start at Paine Grande Refugio, accessible by catamaran from Pudeto.
✔ Hike through rolling hills with panoramic views of Lago Grey.
✔ Arrive at Grey Glacier, be met with the bluest of waters at one of Patagonia’s most breathtaking sights.
✔ Optional ice trekking or kayaking near the glacier.
Day 2: Grey Glacier → Paine Grande
Distance: 11 km
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Elevation Gain: Minimal
Highlights
✔ Hike back from Grey Glacier to Paine Grande, retracing your route
✔ Enjoy open valley landscapes and views of Paine Massif
✔ Relax at Paine Grande before the next challenging day
Accommodation Options
🏡 Refugio Paine Grande (largest refugio with a bar & great meals)
⛺ Camping Paine Grande
Day 3: Paine Grande → French Valley → Los Cuernos
Distance: 16 km
Hiking Time: 7-8 hours
Elevation Gain: 450 m
Highlights
✔ Ascend into the French Valley, surrounded by dramatic peaks and hanging glaciers
✔ Stop at the French Valley viewpoint, offering 360-degree views of the Paine Massif
✔ Descend towards Los Cuernos, hiking along the turquoise waters of Lago Nordenskjöld
Accommodation Options
🏡 Refugio Los Cuernos (cozy lodge with private cabins)
⛺ Camping Los Cuernos
Day 4: Los Cuernos → Chileno
Distance: 12 km
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Elevation Gain: 300 m
Highlights
✔ Trek along the scenic Nordenskjöld Lake, surrounded by towering peaks
✔ Arrive at Refugio Chileno, a great spot to rest before your final ascent
✔ Relax and prepare for an early morning hike to Base Torres
Accommodation Options:
🏡 Refugio Chileno - rustic, trekking-focused experience with dorm-style accommodation and a campsite (closest option for the Base Torres hike - located along the trail from the Welcome Center to Base Torres, roughly halfway between the parking lot near Refugio Torre Central and Mirador Las Torres, the end of the trail and the highest hiking point on the mountain.)
⛺ Camping Chileno
🏡 Hotel Las Torres Patagonia - provides a more luxurious, all-inclusive hotel experience with amenities
And the possibility of bumping into friendly foxes sniffing our your bags
Day 5: The Final Accent – Base Torres
Distance: 11.5 km round trip
Hiking Time: 7-8 hours
Elevation Gain: 900 m
Highlights
✔ Start pre-dawn for a chance to see sunrise at Base Torres
✔ Final steep ascent involves some rock scrambling
✔ Arrive at Mirador Base Torres, where the iconic granite towers reflect in the glacial lake
✔ Descend back to Hotel Las Torres, head to Refugio Torre Central transfer to Puerto Natales. Refugio Torre Central is serviced twice daily by Bus Sur.
Accommodation (Post-Trek in Puerto Natales)
🏡 Hotel Indigo Patagonia (great for post-hike relaxation)
🏡 Vinnhaus Boutique Hotel (stylish, centrally located)
Trekking Accommodation Options
Along the W Trek, hikers can choose between:
Refugios: Mountain lodges offering dormitory-style beds, meals, and basic amenities.
Campsites: Designated areas equipped with facilities for those carrying their own camping gear.
Campsites are clearly marked so follow the signs!
Essential Tips:
Advance Reservations: Due to the trek's popularity, it's crucial to book refugios or campsites well in advance, especially during peak season.
Physical Preparation: Engage in regular cardiovascular and strength training exercises prior to the trek to ensure readiness for the varied terrains.
Gear Checklist: Pack layered clothing to adapt to unpredictable weather, sturdy waterproof hiking boots, a quality rain jacket, and other essentials such as a map, compass, and first-aid kit.
Leave No Trace: Adhere to environmental guidelines by minimizing waste, staying on designated trails, and respecting wildlife.
Embarking on the W Trek is a transformative experience, offering hikers an intimate encounter with Patagonia's raw and untamed beauty. With proper planning and preparation, this adventure promises memories that will last a lifetime.
