If you spend more than about 17 minutes in El Chaltén, something strange happens. You start thinking in “trail time,” not clock time. You stop saying “let’s go for a walk,” and start saying “it’s only a chill 8–10 hours.” You develop opinions about wind as if wind has a personality in and of itself. And you begin to schedule your days around weather windows like a Wall Street trader, but instead of stocks you’re buying Fitz Roy views.
Audrey and I were in El Chaltén for six nights, which is long enough to do the big legendary hikes… and also long enough to learn that your body needs recovery days that still involve moving your skeleton . After a monster day like Laguna de los Tres or Laguna Torre, the temptation is to collapse into a chair and become part of the furniture. But if you fully power down, the next morning your legs may refuse to reboot.
So we did Chorrillo del Salto on a day in between the bigger hikes. A so-called “active recovery” day. A gentle mission. A low-stakes win. A hike where you can keep your legs awake without punishing them, and still finish with a proper Patagonian payoff: a waterfall dropping in a dramatic green amphitheatre of forest and cliffs.
Audrey and I didn’t film this one (our video record button was on a mandated break), but we did it, photographed it and loved it. Chorrillo del Salto proves El Chaltén isn’t only for the summit-chasers. It’s for normal peeps—the kind who like nature, but also like lunch.
Chorrillo del Salto at a glance
| Quick stat | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Trail style | Easy walk through forest to a waterfall viewpoint |
| Difficulty | Easy (low elevation gain, no “boss level” climbs) |
| Time | Roughly 1.5–3 hours round-trip from town (depending on starting location + pace + photo time) |
| Distance | Commonly ~6–8 km round-trip from town (route dependent) |
| Short version | You can also drive/taxi closer and walk a short final section |
| Terrain | Dirt path, some rocks/roots, generally straightforward |
| Best for | Rest day, arrival day, families, bad-wind days, “we want an easy win” days |
| Main payoff | A tall waterfall in a lush forest setting |
Who this walk is perfect for
Chorrillo del Salto is the hike you do when you want Patagonia… without committing to a full-day epic. It’s for:
- People who arrived late and still want to “do something outdoors”
- Anyone saving energy for Laguna de los Tres or Laguna Torre
- Families who want a scenic, achievable walk with a clear destination
- Visitors who want a casual half-day plan that doesn’t require too much effort
- People who have made peace with the fact that Patagonia wind is an entity in and of itself
Destination Snapshot: pick your Chorrillo vibe
| Your vibe | Do this version | Why it works | Tradeoffs |
|---|---|---|---|
| “We want the full walk from town” | Walk from El Chaltén | Feels like a real hike; no transport needed | Takes longer; more steps |
| “We’re tired but still functional” | Walk most of it, slow pace | Active recovery without suffering | You’ll still feel it a bit |
| “We have limited time” | Taxi/drive to closer access + short walk | Maximum payoff per minute | Needs transport |
| “We’re saving our legs for tomorrow’s big one” | Bike partway, walk the last bit | Efficient + fun on calm days | Wind can turn it into a comedy |
How hard is Chorrillo del Salto, really?
Here’s the honest truth: this is one of the easiest “proper nature” outings in El Chaltén.
There’s no sustained climb, no exposed ridgeline, and no section where you start bargaining with the universe (“If I survive this, I’ll stop eating sugar for a week… maybe two days”). You’re walking through forest on a well-used trail, with a waterfall as the destination.
That said, “easy” in Patagonia doesn’t mean “wear flip-flops and bring nothing.” It’s still a natural trail with roots, rocks, and the occasional slippery patch after rain. The reward for treating it like a real hike (even a small one) is that it stays fun instead of turning into a preventable slip-and-slide.
Route options: from town vs the short version
There are two main ways to do Chorrillo del Salto:
- Walk from town (the classic).
- Drive/taxi closer and do the short final approach (the “we’re being super efficient” version).
Both end at the same waterfall. The difference is how much you want the journey to count as exercise.
Quick decision matrix
| Question | If you answer “yes”… | Choose this |
|---|---|---|
| Do you want a proper walk from El Chaltén? | You want the trail experience | Walk from town |
| Are you short on time (or energy)? | You want the fastest payoff | Drive/taxi closer |
| Are your legs fried from a big hike? | You want active recovery | Either: slow walk from town or short version |
| Is the weather acting suspicious? | You want flexibility | Short version |
| Are you traveling with kids who have “opinions”? | You want fewer negotiations | Short version |
Our Chorrillo del Salto day: active recovery, Patagonia edition
Audrey and I did Chorrillo del Salto in that sweet middle space between “we are tired” and “we are still capable of walking a lil’ bit.” The kind of day where you want to keep your legs moving so they don’t stiffen up. But you also don’t (in any way, shape or form) want another full-day grind.
It was also one of those El Chaltén days where the weather felt… optimistic. Blue sky, broken clouds, and crisp air.
The first thing we noticed (and loved) was how straightforward the signage is. There’s big wooden signage that literally points you toward “Chorrillo del Salto”. And along the way, there are little distance markers that feel oddly motivating—like Patagonia is gently counting down to your snack break.
Walking to Chorrillo del Salto from El Chaltén: step-by-step
If you’re walking from town, the vibe is simple: leave El Chaltén, follow the established path network out toward the valley, and keep your eyes open for the Chorrillo del Salto turnoff. On the day we went, the trail felt intuitive and well-used.
Here’s how the walk generally unfolds.
1) Leaving town and settling into “trail mode”
The first minutes are that transition from village life to nature life. You pass the edges of town, the last buildings fade behind you, and the landscape opens up. It’s not the dramatic Fitz Roy “wow factor” yet—this is the warm-up section—but it’s still very Patagonia: open space, big sky, and mountains looming like they’re supervising your choices.
This is also where you’ll likely see signs pointing in multiple directions. One of our favourite signs had arrows for “Sendero al Fitz Roy” one way and “Chorrillo del Salto” the other, as if El Chaltén is casually offering you two very different levels of suffering. (We chose the waterfall. No regrets.)
2) The approach toward the forest
As you continue, the trail begins to feel greener and more sheltered. This is a big part of why Chorrillo del Salto works so well on rest days: you’re not exposed for hours in the wind. The forest sections feel calmer, quieter, and cooler—like your nervous system gets to exhale a little.
Instead of wind screaming across an open valley, you get the softer soundtrack of trees moving and water running. It’s a different mood than Laguna Torre or Fitz Roy—less dramatic, more soothing.
3) The “countdown signs” that make it feel easy
At one point, we came across a wooden marker that basically says, “Chorrillo del Salto 1 km,” with an arrow, like a promise. And then near the access area there’s signage that shows the final approach as short distance with low difficulty (the “Distancia 500 m / Dificultad baja” energy).
This is the psychological secret weapon of Chorrillo del Salto: it never feels endless. You always feel like you’re making progress, and the destination is clear.
4) The final approach (short, scenic, and slightly busier)
The closer you get, the more likely you’ll see other people. Chorrillo del Salto is popular because it’s easy, and it can be accessed in a short version by car. That means you may encounter a mix of hikers and quick visitors.
No big deal—just go at your own pace. If you want the quietest experience, start early or aim for later in the afternoon when the day-tripper bursts are less intense.
5) Arrival at the waterfall: the “this was totally worth it” moment
You’ll hear it before you see it: that steady roar of water that instantly makes you walk a little faster. Then the trees open up and you get the payoff—a tall waterfall dropping into a rocky basin, framed by steep grey cliffs and green forest.
It’s classic Patagonia: rugged rock, lush vegetation, and water doing its loud, confident thing.
We spent a good chunk of time here, because this is the point of an easy hike: you’re not racing the clock or your legs. Sit down, take photos, snack, and enjoy the fact that you reached a legit natural feature without destroying yourself.
What the trail feels like underfoot
Chorrillo del Salto is mostly straightforward:
- packed dirt trail in many sections
- some rocks and roots near the waterfall area
- occasional muddy or slick patches after rain
- a few gentle ups and downs, but nothing sustained
If you’re comfortable walking on uneven ground, you’ll be fine. The only people who struggle here are the ones who treat “easy” as “ignore common sense.”
How long should you budget?
This depends on your style.
Time planning grid
| Your pace | Round-trip time from town | Who this suits |
|---|---|---|
| Fast walkers, minimal stops | ~1.5–2 hours | “We’re just checking it off” |
| Normal pace + photos | ~2–2.5 hours | Most people |
| Slow stroll + hangout time | ~2.5–3+ hours | Families, chill travelers, snack enthusiasts |
If you do the short version by car/taxi, you can be at the waterfall and back in under an hour (but you’ll probably stay longer because it’s nice).
Getting there: the practical logistics
Walking from El Chaltén
This is the simplest and most common option if you’re staying in town. Start on foot, follow signage toward the route that leads out of town, and watch for the Chorrillo del Salto turnoff markers.
Driving or taking a taxi/remis
If you have a car (or you’re happy paying for transport), you can approach closer via the road network outside El Chaltén and park near the designated access. From there, it’s a short walk to the waterfall.
This is a good option if:
- you’re traveling with small kids
- you’re short on time
- the weather is dodgy and you want an easy bailout plan
- your legs are staging a protest
Biking
Biking can be a fun hack, but only on a calm-weather day. Patagonia wind can turn a pleasant bike ride into a humbling experience where you discover you can pedal very hard and still move approximately one centimeter.
When to go: seasons, flow, and crowds
Chorrillo del Salto is doable in most seasons, but the experience changes.
Seasonal vibe guide
| Season | What it feels like | Why it’s great | What to watch for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring (Oct–Nov) | Fresh green, strong flow | Fewer crowds, lively water | Muddy sections, variable weather |
| Summer (Dec–Feb) | Long days, easiest walking | Perfect rest-day hike | Peak crowds, strong sun + wind |
| Autumn (Mar–Apr) | Cooler, quieter, moody light | Less busy, beautiful colours | Shorter days, colder evenings |
| Winter (May–Aug) | Quiet, icy, dramatic | Solitude, frozen vibes | Ice/snow conditions can change fast |
Best time of day
- Early morning: quieter, softer light, fewer short-visit crowds
- Late afternoon: nicer light and often calmer vibes
- Midday: warmest, but busiest
If you’re building an El Chaltén itinerary around the big hikes, Chorrillo is ideal as:
- an arrival-day “warm up”
- a recovery day between big hikes
- a half-day plan when the weather looks mediocre
“Should we do Chorrillo today?” reality-check matrix
| Today looks like… | Do it? | Why | Small tweak |
|---|---|---|---|
| Windy in town | Yes | Forest sections feel more sheltered | Bring a windproof shell |
| Light rain / drizzle | Maybe | Waterfalls look great in moody weather | Waterproof layer + protect your camera |
| Heavy rain / storm | No | Slippery trail + miserable experience | Pick a café day and try again |
| Post-big-hike soreness | Yes | Perfect active recovery | Slow pace + long waterfall hangout |
| You arrived late | Yes | Simple, quick, satisfying | Start in late afternoon |
| You leave tomorrow | Yes | Great last “Patagonia moment” | Short version if you’re rushed |
What to pack (even for an easy hike)
The essentials
- Water (don’t underestimate dehydration, even on short walks)
- A snack (optional, but also… not optional)
- Wind/rain shell (Patagonia’s favourite prank is “surprise weather”)
- Sunglasses + sunscreen (clouds are not a guarantee of mercy)
- Comfortable shoes with grip
- Offline map saved on your phone
Clothing cheat sheet
| Conditions | Top | Bottom | Extras |
|---|---|---|---|
| Warm + calm | T-shirt + light layer | Hiking pants/shorts | Hat, sunscreen |
| Warm + windy | Base layer + shell | Pants | Buff/neck gaiter |
| Cool + mixed | Base + fleece + shell | Pants | Gloves, beanie |
| Wet or muddy | Quick-dry layers + shell | Pants | Extra socks (hero move) |
If you bring one thing, bring a shell. Patagonia wind doesn’t ask permission.
Costs, tickets, and rules
Chorrillo del Salto is inside Los Glaciares National Park (El Chaltén / Zona Norte)—and the big thing to know is that trail access here is controlled and ticketing/enforcement has shifted over time, so don’t rely on what an old blog post said.
Before you go, check the official park info for:
- Tickets (Zona Norte): entry is online-only (buy via the official APN site or scan the QR code at the access portals). Payment is credit/debit only—no cash.
- Current posted costs: the official pase diario lists ARS 45,000 (general) / ARS 15,000 (Argentine residents) / ARS 5,000 (Santa Cruz residents) / ARS 7,000 (students) (and there are multi-day/annual pass options if you’re hiking more than once).
- Rules + closures: confirm any temporary closures/alerts, and remember the big basics: no pets, no drones, and follow posted trail guidance.
On the ground, the rules are the usual “keep Patagonia wild” stuff:
- pack out your trash
- stick to marked trails
- don’t light fires where you shouldn’t
- don’t bother wildlife
- respect signage (it exists for reasons)
Also: don’t be that person blasting music. No one came to Patagonia to hear your playlist.
Safety notes that matter (even on “easy” hikes)
Weather is the real boss in Patagonia
Chorrillo del Salto is short and low-risk compared to the big hikes, but weather still matters. Wind can be intense, rain can make rocks slick, and temperatures can shift fast.
Check the forecast, but also look outside. El Chaltén weather enjoys lying.
Don’t rely on cell service
Download what you need before you leave town (maps, tickets, info). Don’t assume you’ll have signal exactly when you want it.
Wildlife
Most people won’t see anything dramatic, but you’re in a wild place. Keep kids close, don’t feed animals, and don’t approach anything just because it makes a cool photo.
Chorrillo del Salto with kids (and strollers, and real-life constraints)
This is one of the most family-friendly nature outings in El Chaltén, but “family-friendly” in Patagonia still means “natural terrain.”
- Kids who can walk will do fine with breaks and snacks.
- For toddlers, a carrier is usually easier than a stroller.
- The short version (drive/taxi closer) makes it far more manageable.
If you’re traveling with a baby and you’re trying to avoid another all-day hike, Chorrillo del Salto is exactly the kind of outing that keeps everyone happy.
Photography tips (without turning this into a camera forum)
Chorrillo del Salto is photogenic because it has:
- motion (water)
- texture (rock walls)
- depth (forest layers)
A few simple tips:
- Include a person in the frame for scale (it makes the waterfall feel bigger).
- On bright days, expose for the highlights so the white water doesn’t blow out.
- If you have a camera, a faster shutter freezes the water; a slower shutter (with stability) gives you a silky effect.
- Overcast days can look amazing here—less harsh contrast, more “Patagonia mood.”
How to pair Chorrillo del Salto with other easy wins
Chorrillo del Salto shines when you treat it like a piece of a day, not the entire day (unless your goal is maximal chill, which we respect deeply).
Pairing ideas
| Add-on | Effort | Why it pairs well |
|---|---|---|
| Mirador de los Cóndores / Águilas viewpoints | Low–moderate | Short hike + big views combo |
| Town café crawl | Low | Recovery day perfection |
| Sunset walk near town | Low | Great light, minimal effort |
| Prep day for Fitz Roy/Torre | Low | Keeps legs active without fatigue |
Chorrillo del Salto vs other easy hikes in El Chaltén
| Hike | Effort | Typical time | Payoff style | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chorrillo del Salto | Easy | 1.5–3 hrs | Waterfall + forest | Recovery day, families, quick win |
| Mirador de los Cóndores / Águilas | Short but uphill | 1–2 hrs | Big panoramic views | Sunrise/sunset, condor-spotting |
| Laguna Capri (viewpoint) | Moderate | 3–4 hrs | Fitz Roy views, less intense | “I want Fitz Roy without the full boss level” |
| Laguna Torre (to the lake) | Moderate | 6–8 hrs | Valley + glacier lake vibes | Full-day classic that’s gentler than Fitz Roy |
Sample half-day plans
| Your schedule | Plan | Vibe |
|---|---|---|
| Arrival day | Check in → Chorrillo late afternoon → dinner | “Instant Patagonia” |
| Recovery day | Sleep in → late morning Chorrillo → long lunch | “Active rest” |
| Weather looks weird | Go early → waterfall photos → back before chaos | “We outsmarted Patagonia” |
| Tight schedule | Taxi/drive short version → quick hangout → pack | “Efficiency mode” |
Common mistakes (and how to avoid them)
| Mistake | Why it’s annoying | Do this instead |
|---|---|---|
| Treating “easy” like “no prep” | Weather can still ruin your day | Bring a shell + water |
| Going at peak midday and hating crowds | You’ll feel rushed | Go early or late |
| Wearing smooth sneakers after rain | Slips happen | Shoes with grip |
| Rushing the waterfall and leaving | You miss the best part | Sit, snack, chill |
| Overplanning a simple hike | You rob it of joy | Keep it simple and go |
Final thoughts: the easy hikes are the glue
El Chaltén is famous for the big hitters, and yes—those hikes are incredible. But if you’re building a trip that feels good (not just looks good on paper), you really need days like Chorrillo del Salto.
It’s a small adventure with a big payoff. It keeps your legs in motion on tired days. It’s family-friendly by Patagonia standards. And it gives you that satisfying feeling of “we did a hike” without the next-day consequences of “we climbed half a mountain and now we are emotionally attached to ibuprofen.”
If you’re looking for the perfect in-between hike—something that’s easy, scenic, and genuinely worth it—Chorrillo del Salto is it.
Chorrillo del Salto Walk FAQ: tickets, timing, and planning your easy waterfall hike in El Chaltén
Do we really recommend this hike even if you’re doing the big ones?
Yes. It’s one of the best “in-between” hikes in El Chaltén, especially on recovery days. You still get a great payoff without accumulating fatigue.
How long does Chorrillo del Salto take?
Most people will spend about 1.5–3 hours round-trip from town, depending on pace and how long you hang out at the falls.
Is it actually easy, or “Patagonia easy”?
It’s genuinely easy compared to Fitz Roy or Torre. No major climbs, and the trail is straightforward. You still need decent footwear and a jacket because Patagonia does what it wants.
Can you drive closer to shorten the walk?
Yep. If you have a car (or take a taxi/remis), you can approach closer and do a short final walk to the waterfall viewpoint.
Is it worth doing if the weather is windy?
Often yes. Forest sections can feel more protected than open valley hikes. Bring a windproof layer and you’ll likely be fine.
Is it good for kids?
Yes, especially if you keep expectations realistic and bring snacks. For very young kids, a carrier is usually easier than a stroller.
Is the trail stroller-friendly?
Usually not in the “smooth sidewalk” sense. Terrain varies, and near the waterfall it can be rocky. A carrier tends to be the better move for sure.
What’s the best time of day to avoid crowds?
Early morning is usually quietest. Late afternoon can also be calmer and has great light. Midday tends to be busiest.
What should we pack?
Water, snack, wind/rain shell, sunglasses/sunscreen, and shoes with grip. Keep it simple.
Are there toilets on the trail?
Don’t assume it. Go in town before you leave, and treat any facilities you find as a bonus, not a guarantee.
Can we swim near the waterfall?
The water is cold and the area can be slippery. People might wade or take photos near the water, but you don’t need to prove anything to anyone. Prioritize safety.
Is there cell service?
Don’t count on it. Download maps and any ticket confirmations before you leave town.
Do you need a park entrance ticket?
Yes. As of now you do. Happy “happy” joy “joy”. Policies change and enforcement has shifted over time. Check the official Los Glaciares / El Chaltén trail access info before you go so you don’t start your day with a surprise.
Can we combine it with other short hikes?
Absolutely. It pairs well with viewpoints like Mirador de los Cóndores / Águilas or with a relaxed café afternoon.
Is it worth doing in winter?
It can be, but conditions vary a lot. Ice and snow can change the difficulty, so check local conditions and bring traction if needed.
Further Reading, Sources & Resources
For the most up-to-date details (tickets, fees, and rules), it’s not a bad idea to confirm with official park sources first.
Official tickets + fees (most important)
- https://ventaweb.apn.gob.ar/
Official APN online ticket portal (buy/verify your Los Glaciares entry). - https://www.argentina.gob.ar/interior/ambiente/parquesnacionales/losglaciares/tarifas
Official Los Glaciares National Park fee page (Zona Norte / Zona Sur pricing).
Official rules + trail information
- https://www.argentina.gob.ar/interior/ambiente/parquesnacionales/losglaciares
Official Los Glaciares National Park hub page (rules, planning info, park basics). - https://www.argentina.gob.ar/sites/default/files/2019/06/folleto_senderos_zona_norte_pnlg_espanol_2024.pdf
Official Zona Norte trails booklet PDF (routes, connections, distances, safety notes).
Local route context (helpful for Chorrillo specifics)
- https://elchalten.com/v4/es/chorrillo-del-salto-el-chalten.php
Local El Chaltén trail write-up focused specifically on Chorrillo del Salto. - https://elchalten.tur.ar/el-chorrillo-del-salto/
Local tourism page with practical notes (time/distance overview and access info).
Notes on accuracy
- Fees and enforcement can change—check the APN portal and official Los Glaciares fee page within 24–48 hours of hiking.
- Trail conditions vary by season (wind, mud, ice). If anything conflicts, trust official APN guidance first, then confirm locally via posted signage/park staff.