Highlight • Lake
Hiking
5.0
(40)
Lake Gutiérrez, known locally as Lago Gutiérrez, is a stunning glacial lake nestled at an elevation of 832 meters in the northern Patagonian region of Argentina. Located in the Río Negro province, approximately 12 kilometers southwest of San Carlos de Bariloche, this moraine-dammed lake forms an integral part of the expansive Nahuel Huapi National Park. Its crystal-clear, emerald green waters are a defining feature, reflecting the majestic Patagonian mountainsides and dense forests that surround it.
Visitors are consistently captivated by…
This Highlight is in a protected area
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Reserva Nacional Nahuel Huapi
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Lake Gutiérrez
4.4
(20)
86
hikers
7.41km
02:20
190m
190m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.2
(10)
48
hikers
16.4km
04:55
490m
490m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(13)
89
hikers
17.9km
05:27
510m
510m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
Details
Informations
Elevation 830 m
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Max wind speed: 14.0 km/h
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Lake Gutiérrez offers a variety of popular hiking trails for different skill levels. Some notable options include the trail to Cascada de los Duendes (Goblin's Waterfall), which is relatively easy and family-friendly. For more scenic views, the Mirador Lago Gutiérrez trail provides stunning panoramas of the lake and surrounding mountains. More experienced hikers might consider the challenging trek towards Refugio Frey, which offers alpine landscapes and a mountain hut experience.
Yes, when visiting Lake Gutiérrez, especially within Nahuel Huapi National Park, it's important to keep dogs on a leash to protect local wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors. While some areas might be more lenient, adhering to national park guidelines is crucial. Always clean up after your pet to maintain the natural beauty of the area.
Lake Gutiérrez is easily accessible from San Carlos de Bariloche by public transport. The Bariloche public transport Route 50 bus service frequently runs between Bariloche and Lake Gutiérrez, with several stops around the lake, including near Villa los Coihues and popular access points. Check the local bus schedule for the most up-to-date timings and specific stop locations.
There are several convenient parking and access points around Lake Gutiérrez. Popular spots include areas near Villa los Coihues on the northern shore, which provides access to beaches and trails. Other access points are located along the main road that skirts the lake, often near trailheads like those for Cascada de los Duendes and Mirador Lago Gutiérrez. Parking can fill up quickly during peak season, so arriving early is advisable.
Lake Gutiérrez is an excellent destination for families. Kids will enjoy the easy hike to Cascada de los Duendes, exploring the small beaches for picnics and sunbathing, and perhaps even a short, supervised swim in the shallower, relatively warmer areas of the lake. Kayaking is also a popular activity, with rentals often available, offering a fun way to explore the lake's calm waters together.
Yes, the village of Villa los Coihues, located on the northern shore of Lake Gutiérrez, offers a few cafes and restaurants where visitors can enjoy a meal or a drink. You can also find various accommodation options ranging from cabins and guesthouses to campsites in and around Villa los Coihues, providing convenient lodging close to the lake's attractions.
The trail to Mirador Lago Gutiérrez is generally considered moderate. It involves a steady ascent to reach the viewpoint, offering rewarding panoramic views. While specific elevation gain can vary slightly depending on the starting point, hikers should expect a noticeable climb. It's suitable for most hikers with a reasonable level of fitness, and the path is generally well-maintained.
While some areas of Lake Gutiérrez are considered suitable for swimming, caution is strongly advised due to the lake's cold water. The average surface temperature is around 7°C (45°F), which can lead to hypothermia if not prepared. Swimmers should only enter the water for short periods, preferably in designated or shallower areas, and always be aware of their limits. It's not a typical warm-water swimming destination.
Lake Gutiérrez is known for its crystal-clear, emerald green waters and the stunning reflections of the surrounding Patagonian mountains. A unique feature is the presence of marine birds like the Kelp Gull and the Blue-Eyed Cormorant, which are typically found in oceanic environments despite the lake's inland, high-altitude location. Anglers are also drawn to the lake for its trout species, including rainbow, brown, and brook trout.
For most day hikes around Lake Gutiérrez, such as to Cascada de los Duendes or Mirador Lago Gutiérrez, no specific registration is typically required. However, for more challenging or multi-day treks, especially those involving overnight stays in mountain huts like Refugio Frey, it is often mandatory to register your trekking plans with the National Park authorities (Parques Nacionales) for safety reasons. Always check current regulations before embarking on longer excursions.
Lake Gutiérrez is highly regarded for kayaking due to its relatively calm and clear waters, making it an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced paddlers. Its picturesque setting, surrounded by mountains and forests, provides a beautiful backdrop. While other lakes in the Bariloche region also offer kayaking, Gutiérrez is often favored for its accessibility, serene atmosphere, and the stunning emerald hue of its water, which creates a unique paddling experience.
For breathtaking photography, the Mirador Lago Gutiérrez offers one of the most iconic viewpoints, providing expansive vistas of the lake and the peaks of Otto, Catedral, and Ventana. Other excellent spots include various points along the lake's shores, particularly near Villa los Coihues, where the reflections of the mountains on the emerald water are stunning. Early morning or late afternoon light often enhances the colors and shadows, making for dramatic shots.