We entered the National Park proper on the 2nd to do two day hikes and camp at Lago Roca that borders with Chile. The RN3 road we had followed from Buenos Aires made its ended some 3100km later and we appreciate the significance off covering every km.
Despite a forecast for rain all week, we were blessed sunny skies and warm (+22C) temperature as we made the 4 hours ascent of the 1000m peak. Yet another muddy patch lasting up a km confirmed we would be buying proper boots for our hiking in Chile at the end of the week.
The views as we climbed the final pitch were more breath taking with each step as the snow capped Darwin range covered the east. The summit provided stunning 360-degree views that we sat memorized by over a leisurely lunch. The wind as always was relentless and despite taking shelter behind a boulder we were eventually chased out an hour later. The strong headwind worked in our favor on the decent holding us up and taking some stress off the knees. Although making numerous stops to take in the views we descend quickly and found ourselves walking back along Glacial Lake Roca two hours later. We waded in the numbing water to our knees to give the aching muscle a much-deserved bath.
We brought dinner back to the same beach for a promising sunset that lasted far past 11:00pm. No problem sleeping easy tonight…
The next morning we tackled the 5-mile coast hike that returned us to the park entrance. Luck was on our side again as the predicted forecast of rain held off and the gray skies brought calm winds, a rarity down here.
Today would be our first attempt with a reasonably full pack on our backs, which took some getting used to. Slower, more predictable movements were needed keep the rudder on the back steady and ducking around and under trees was a particular challenge for me. It seems the trail maintenance is done with the 5’6” person in mind. Dee thought I resembled a grizzly at times crashing through the forest.
We exited the trail to catch a quick view of the world’s southernmost post office - of course all claims to fame here are related to that theme, southern most park, hotel, restaurant, etc... - before perfectly timing our shuttle pick up along the road. We returned to our hotel and settled into our room as the rain opened up as predicted. While we don’t expect to be this fortunate during the rest of the trekking, it has been a good start.
No comments:
Post a Comment