GPT71 (Espolon)

Add a new log entry always on top in the appropriate season sub-chapter and use format:

* '''Start Date to Finish Date (use Format YYYY-MMM-DD) / Duration in Days / Hiking or Packrafting / Travel Direction (SOBO for Southbound or NOBO Northbound) / Chosen Route and/or Option Name (RR for Regular Route) / Names or Alias'''

If you are packrafting, put the above into like this <span style="background-color:aqua;">YYYY-MMM-DD / X days / Packrafting / SOBO / RP / Your name</span>. If you follow a hiking route for part of the way, highlight only "packrafting".

Summary with remarks to route that are considered useful for other hikers and packrafters. Include alerts, suggestions and personal perception of attractiveness and difficulties. Try to be specific. Do not be shy to fix obvious mistakes.

Overview

Section Log, Alerts and Suggestions

Season 2025/26

Season 2024/25

Season 2023/24

Season 2018/19

  • 2019-Jan-01 to 2019-Jan-05 / 5 days / Hiking / SoBo / Martin Lizondo

Long and beautifull route, if well demanding.

The Río Turbio crossing isn’t a problem anymore as it has a bridge now at 42°52'51"S 72°22'13"W. There are two very difficult river crossings in this section. One is Río Michimahuida at 42°53'15"S 72°20'19"W. It’s possible to cross with water up to the hips. There live some settlers who can help you cross with horses. The next river is Río de los Mallines, which is 42°55'19"S 72°16'57"W. Much more strong and difficult, you may require help with horses too. The last settler of that valley is called “Chayo” Pezo and he lives with his son Jaime at 42°55'27"S 72°16'32"W. Very gentle, they offer bed, mate and bread.

Near to the mountain pass the trail is confusing and becomes lost in some mallines, so fresh steps and wood cuts are the best signaling. Signs of old cattle use are visible everwhere if well the route was practically abandoned since the last volcano’s eruption. The valley of Espolon isn’t hard, is mostly well marked and there are many well built bridges. Remeber to say hello and spend some time chating with settlers. The don’t require money for their help.

The Lagos de las Rosas trail is perfectly marked and daily used.

Resupply and Accommodation

Resupply and Accommodation in nearby Towns

Resupply and Accommodation along the Route

  • 2019 / Martin Lizondo

The last settler of that valley is called “Chayo” Pezo and he lives with his son Jaime at 42°55'27"S 72°16'32"W. Very gentle, they offer bed, mate and bread.

Transport to and from Route

Permits, Entry Fees and Right-of-Way Issues

Links to other Resources

Retired Section Article GPT71 - Espolón

Images