One of the rare flat stretches on the trek to San Francisco Glacier. Photo By: Kendal Montgomery
Surrounded by mountains and hills, Santiago is a trekker´s haven.
One has options: you can plan for a couple-hours trek on Cerro San Cristobal, a half-day around Parque Mahuida or a day or more exploring the endless options at Cajón de Maipo. Those are three of hundreds of possibilities.
Also ranging, are the degrees of difficulty. For example at Cerro San Cristobal, there is a paved path, dirt trails and plenty of provisions on-site, might you need a water, mote con huesillo or even a sit-down restaurant. San Cristobal is great because you can make it an easy trek, or by going off-road, make it a little more strenuous. And then you get into the more difficult treks, where the higher elevations alone get the heart pumping.
I recently took a 16-kilometer trek to San Francisco Glacier located at the El Morado Natural Monument, 3,033 meters above sea level. Though all walks of life could technically handle this trek, I wouldn´t recommend it for the faint of heart. Here you must carry the necessitates such as water, food, and possibly a jacket, as the higher you climb, the colder and windier it becomes. The trek is definitely worth it however, especially during this time of the year (summer), as flowers are in-bloom amidst lush greens, there are beautiful mineral pools and a laguna and finally, the great mountain of ice, the main attraction: San Francisco Glacier. Also close by are natural springs for bathing and a more extensive trek to the, as I´ve been told, more impressive El Morado Glacier. With camping allowed and cabins around, you can easily spend a couple days in the area.
Though a car is ideal, it is by no means necessary, as public transportation will get you close to roughly all areas, including the base of the glaciers aforementioned. What is necessary? A good pair of shoes, hydration, sunscreen, proper clothing, motivation and in my case (highly recommended in yours as well), a camera. What helps? At least a cereal bar—granted, food varies on the extensiveness of your trek—and possibly some trekking poles.
Chile really is nature´s playground, and Santiago, despite its metropolitan ways, is no exception. A good trek is such a great way to spend your time; it gets the muscles working, the lungs some fresh air and gives the mind tranquillity, an overall body booster. For me, a perfect day is a day in which the only thing you have to do, your only responsibility, is to enjoy the great outdoors.
Though just a small list from what´s out there, here´s a few of the places I´ve conquered, and some ideas for your next trek:
- All over Cajón de Maipo
- Rio Clarillo
- Cerro San Cristobal
- Parque Mahuida
- Cerro Manquehue
- Santuarios de la Naturaleza en Santiago
- Huinganal
- Yerba Loca
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