About This Route
The full Circuito Torres del Paine, or O Circuit, loops 76-90 kilometers around Torres del Paine National Park, Chile, combining the W with remote backcountry sectors like Valle de los Patos and Paso John Gardner. Ultrarunners target FKTs (current ~17 hours by locals), but it's unsupported, committing terrain with 6,000+ meters gain. Begin at Laguna Amarga, skirt Lago Nordenskjold, cross wild Paso del Viento, descend to Glacier Grey, then hit the towers via Valle Ascencio. Less crowded than W, yet rangers warn of high rescue needs; obtain CONAF permits, check wind at Las Torres ranger station.
Safety Considerations
Extreme weather defines this route: 2-3 day storms strand runners, Paso Gardner often snow-covered with 1,200m climbs on loose talus. River crossings swell post-rain; probe depths, unclip pack waist belts. No refugios on east side; self-sufficiency mandatory. Navigation via Gaia GPS apps essential; cairns fade in fog. Altitude sickness rare (2,000m), but cumulative fatigue causes errors. Wildlife minimal impact per park studies, but secure food from foxes. Run early mornings to dodge winds; carry 3-day food rations (clif bars, nuts). REI Expert Advice: layer for 0-25C swings.
Essential Gear
Arc'teryx Alpha SV shell, Montbell UL down pants, Suunto watch with altimeter, Petzl headlamp, MSR PocketRocket stove for hot meals, Osprey 20L vest with 3L bladder, microspikes for Paso snow, emergency beacon.