Cerro Catedral Hike

Options

Catedral Ridge route

At the indicated time we'll pick you up from your hotel and head to the foot of Cerro Catedral mountain, where we will buy the ticket for the cable car (not included). Then for 40 minutes you can sit back, relax, and gaze out at the stunning panoramic views as we ascend to the summit of the mountain.

Once at the summit at more than 6500 feet high, we will set off on our hike over rocky terrain. While we trek for two hours you will have amazing views of Cerro Tronador mountain and the high Andean landscapes.

We will arrive at a place known as "the cancha de futbol" (the soccer field), and from there we will descend to the lagoons of Schmoll and Toncek, which are only separated by a narrow path of small stones.

After circling the lagoons, we will eventually reach the mountain lodge called Refugio Emilio Frey at 1,676 m (5,500 feet) high. Here, we'll pause to enjoy a sandwich, piece of fruit, and cereal bar, surrounded by lush natural beauty.

After the break, we will continue our descent along the traditional path, crossing 10 km (6 mi) of forest of elegant coihue and lenga beech trees, finally arriving back at the original departure point.

The trip finishes back in Bariloche, arriving about 9 hours later.

Traditional hiking route

The morning begins in the same way as the first option until we arrive at the bottom of Cerro Catedral mountain. Then, rather than taking the cable car, we will start our trek along the traditional hiking route.

For four hours, we will follow the track as it gradually ascends along gentle slopes. We will pass through forests and cross streams while enjoying beautiful views of lake Gutierrez and Cerro Ventana mountain.

Our hike continues through the valley of Arroyo del Van Titter, which you will see close up as we cross the bridge. You will also witness how the vegetation becomes sparser as we climb higher, eventually revealing the first rock formations of the valley.

The last stretch of the treck will be notably steeper and, at the foot of Frey needle, we will eventually reach the Refugio Emilio Frey mountain refuge. After climbing up through the mountains for 10 km (6 mi) you will be rewarded with the perfect spot to rest, enjoy a sandwich, piece of fruit, and cereal bar while gazing out at the stunning views of the Patagonian landscapes that surround us.

After the pause, we will follow the traditional track back to Villa Catedral, which will take between 2 hours and a half, and three hours.

The hike finishes back in Bariloche, 9 hours later.

Important information

• For both options, it is recommended that participants have a good level of physical fitness.
• If you are pregnant or have a heart condition, please consult us before booking.
• The route along the Catedral Ridge is only done in summer and on days without wind. It is not appropriate for people with vertigo or knee problems.