Queulat National Park is one of the true gems of Chile’s Carretera Austral. Here, nature unfolds in its most pristine form: lush temperate rainforest, rushing rivers, moss-covered trees – and, as the grand highlight, the Ventisquero Colgante, or Hanging Glacier, dramatically suspended high above a sheer rock wall. From its icy edge, meltwater thunders down in spectacular waterfalls into the valley below.
The Hike to the Viewpoint
The trail begins at the park’s visitor center and leads through dense, mystical forest. The path is well-marked, though sometimes root-covered and rocky – good footwear is highly recommended. The moderate hike takes about 1.5 to 2 hours one way, gradually ascending to a viewpoint that offers a breathtaking panorama: the hanging glacier, the deep green valley, the turquoise glacial lake, and cascading waterfalls.
Depending on the weather, the glacier may be veiled in mist, lending it an almost mythical quality – or it might appear in full splendor, with deep crevasses and torrents of water roaring into the void.
What to Bring:
- Water and a small snack
- A rain jacket – the weather can change quickly
- Sturdy hiking shoes
Tip: For an easier option, there’s a shorter walk that leads to the shore of the glacial lake – a peaceful spot with a more distant, but still stunning, view of the glacier.
On our Carretera Austral Tour or Full Patagonia Tour, you should definitely stop here. You have to pay for the entrance fee online. It is best to do this in advance, as mobile reception in the area is poor. There are several campsites near the national park, where you can stay overnight. If you want to relax after the hike, we recommend a visit to the Ventisquero thermal baths. If you prefer something more luxurious, the Puyuhuapi thermal baths are a must.