Route Overview & Key Highlights
The W-Trek in Torres del Paine National Park is renowned globally for taking hikers right through three main highlights: the Base of the Towers viewpoint, the Francés Valley with its hanging glaciers, and the massive Grey Glacier stretching from the Southern Patagonian Ice Field.
Day-by-Day Expedition Breakdown
- Day 1: Central Refugio to Base Torres Viewpoint - 18 km round trip ascending through Ascencio Valley to witness sunrise over the three iconic towers.
- Day 2: Central to Refugio Cuernos - 11 km along the shores of Nordenskjöld Lake under the shadow of Los Cuernos peaks.
- Day 3: Francés Valley & French Glacier - 15 km trek up the amphitheater surrounded by hanging glaciers and steep avalanche walls.
- Day 4: Cuernos to Refugio Grey - 11 km moving towards Lake Grey with icebergs floating near the trail edges.
- Day 5: Grey Glacier Suspension Bridges & Departure - 11 km return hike to Paine Grande catamaran docking terminal.
Essential Logistics & Permits
Camping and campsite reservations must be secured up to 6 months in advance through CONAF or authorized campsite operators (Vertice and Las Torres Patagonia). Unreserved hikers are turned away at park entry points.
Verified Official Resources:
Official park authority and campsite booking access:
CONAF Chile Official Site ↗