Chorrillo del Salto

El Chaltén · Santa Cruz

When to go

BestGoodFairPoorClosedCrowds (quiet → packed)November–March have long daylight, milder walking conditions and active water flow. · Also: July–August: possible frozen-waterfall scenery, but icy and snow-covered conditions require a same-day check.

Time: Morning or late afternoon, when the forest is calmer and there is ample time to return in daylight. · Midday is fine if weather is stable, but the small waterfall viewpoint is likelier to have day visitors.
Avoid: Avoid during official trail closures, high wind, heavy rain, snow, ice or poor visibility; winter conditions can make the easy route hazardous.

About 3 hours

A good route

Start
Portal Base Fitz Roy at the north end of Avenida San Martín5 min
Show the APN entry ticket and the passport or ID used to buy it; take the signed Chorrillo route.
+5 min
Chorrillo del Salto trail through the ñire and lenga forest35 min
Follow Chorrillo signs near RP 41; do not use the signed bike-only path and watch for vehicles.
+40 min
Chorrillo del Salto waterfall30 min
Enjoy the falls from stable ground; do not scramble on wet rocks or cross the stream.
+1 h 10
Return to Portal Base Fitz Roy40 min
Return the same way and allow extra time if the trail is muddy or slippery.

Maps & links

Park mapelchalten.tur.ar

Good to know

Bring

Passport or ID used for park entry
Waterproof hooded shell
Warm insulating layer and windproof outer layer`,`

Food & breaks

Carry water and snacks from El Chaltén; no confirmed supplies or toilets are at the falls.
Do not rely on drinking from streams; APN recommends carrying water.

Skip it if

Skip if you want major Fitz Roy views, a strenuous wilderness hike, or do not want to pay the park-access ticket for a short walk.