Paso de las Nubes
✓ Verified against the agency · APNThe classic Pampa Linda → Lago Frías traverse. 2-3 days through old-growth lenga forest, across the pass at ~1,335m, overnight at Refugio Agostino Rocca, then descent to Puerto Frías for the boat to Puerto Blest. Also known as Paso Vuriloche.
Distance
17.5 km
Max elevation
1,400m (Paso de las Nubes / Refugio Rocca)
Duration
2-3 days
Safety classification
DifficultyMulti-day trek
GuideNo guide needed
GearTraction / poles
OfficialYes
MaintainedYes
Season
Nov–Apr (CAB grade Moderate); best Dec–Mar when the pass and mallines are clear. May–Oct graded High — snow on the pass, do not attempt as a trek. Early season the marshy sections may still be snow-covered.
Hazards
- ▲Deep mud and very slippery tread after rain — the area is one of the wettest in the park
- ▲River and rocky creek crossings
- ▲Cloud and rain stream in from Chile up the Frías valley — the pass is named for it; expect poor visibility
- ▲No camping between Pampa Linda and the Rocca hut (fire regulations) — each leg is committed
- ▲The Turisur catamaran from Puerto Frías must be booked before leaving the hut; missing it strands you at the lake
- ▲One-way road timetable to/from Pampa Linda constrains start times
2-day hut traverse Pampa Linda → Refugio Agostino Rocca → Lago Frías/Puerto Blest (reversible). APN registro de trekking mandatory and free; Rocca hut reservation mandatory, no camping beside it on the north leg. Leg 1 is 14 km / 600 m / 5–6 h. Book boat and bus logistics before you walk in.