About This Route
Mirador Las Torres in Torres del Paine National Park, Chile, delivers granite tower views after a challenging 22-kilometer round-trip from Las Torres Base camp. Begin at the Chilean Park Service (CONAF) welcome center, pass Chileno refuge, and scramble boulders to the mirador. Allow 9 to 11 hours with 900 meters gain. This bucket-list hike draws thousands annually; permits required via park website. Adhere to Leave No Trace to protect fragile alpine tundra.
Safety Considerations
Fierce katabatic winds from the towers can halt progress; monitor Ventarrón station forecasts. Glacial streams swell post-rain; test depth before crossing. Bouldery finale risks ankles; experienced hikers only. Snow patches linger into January; microspikes advised. Guanacos roam harmlessly, but secure food from foxes. Crowds peak midday; early starts essential. CONAF enforces trail quotas; check conditions at Pudeto ranger station.
Essential Gear
Gore-Tex hardshell from Mammut, Smartwool socks, and Montbell Plasma 1000 parka for windchill. Kahtoola microspikes for ice. Osprey Talon 33 pack with 4L bladder. Petzl headlamp for delays. Comprehensive first-aid including Sam Splint.