The hike to the Mirador Ventisquero Colgante in Parque Nacional Queulat takes you through a dense, green forest to a viewpoint that offers a spectacular view of the hanging glacier and the waterfall below. The sight of the ice slowly melting and the water cascading down into the depths is truly impressive - an example of the powerful yet fragile nature of Patagonia.
The trail is about 3 km long and although it is steeply uphill in places, the tour is easily doable for hikers with average fitness. It is worth starting early because the park closes in the afternoon. Good preparation is important, especially since access is regulated by reservation through the CONAF system and the park is closed on Mondays.
What I particularly liked about this hike is the mix of deep forest, bubbling streams and then the sudden, dramatic opening of the landscape with the glacier in the background. For nature lovers, it is a hike that combines both the tranquility and the raw power of nature.
A little tip: If you are traveling by bike, you can easily park it at the parking lot and enjoy the rest of the way on foot