Outings and excursions · El Bolsón
Trekking to the Cajón del Azul Refuge
Text: Miriam Coronel · Photos: Interpatagonia.com
El Cajón del Azul is a destination that combines natural beauty, adventure and a unique experience in Patagonia, an increasingly popular choice among travelers.
The natural protected area of the Azul River is a real treasure for mountain hikers, with a variety of trekking circuits that run through valleys and hills, surrounded by forests of lenga, coihue, ñire and cypress of the mountain range, in contact with areas of influence of the Valdivian rainforest.
To approach this landscape on footon horseback can be a unique experience with the desire to return and continue exploring glaciers, rivers, lagoons, mallines and meadows and to discover the network of mountain circuits of El Bolsón. For trekking lovers, Cajón del Azul becomes the pearl of the region. This refuge is located at a distance of 8 kilometers from the Wharton farm, and the hike lasts approximately 3 to 4 hours. The name derives from the incredible image of the river squeezed between the stone walls.
When preparing for the outing, it is essential to complete the trekking registration of the Río Azul-Lago Escondido Natural Protected Area and check weather conditions.
Cajón del Azul Refuge
One of the options to immerse yourself in this journey is to do it in one day. However, there is also the possibility of staying at the refugecamping in permitted areas and exploring every corner at your own pace, enjoying the tranquility and beauty of these places.
The Cajón del Azul is an increasingly popular choice among travelers. The Azul River rises in the mountain range and flows between walls and pools of calm waters. To reach the destination, the hike goes into the mountains, upstream, among dazzling and breathtaking landscapes.
With the registration done and all the information in hand, the hike begins at the Wharton farm, 17 km from the center of El Bolsón, along route 40 to the north, turning towards Mallín Ahogado.
The trail is very well signposted, so you won't get lost. The first stop you will find on your way to Cajón del Azul is La Playita, strategically located about 6 km from the start of the hike, on the near bank of the river. Once you reach this point, the terrain becomes flatter and less demanding, giving you a much-needed respite to find the final treasure.
From La Playita, you can continue on to Cajón del Azulaccess other refuges, such as El Retamal, El Conde, Casa de Campo and La Horqueta. Each of them offers different services and spectacular landscapes to enjoy.
After visiting La Playita, the trail continues to a metal footbridge that crosses the Azul River and takes you to the Cajón del Azul refuge, a little less than 2 km. Before crossing the footbridge, bordering the river for a few more meters, the top of paradise is the famous pools of the Azul River, perfect for swimming and enjoying a well-deserved rest.
Overnight stays include the use of a kitchen with utensils. The place has a grocery store, sale of prepared meals and showers with hot water.
- Type of tour: Trekking
- Duration: Walking time3 to 4 hours
- Difficulty: half
How to get there
By car: From El Bolsón take route 40 heading north, as if leaving towards Bariloche. After passing the police checkpoint, the road that leads to Mallín Ahogado opens to the left, following this main road for about 8 kilometers you will see the sign indicating Wharton to turn left. At the end of this road you will reach the Wharton family crossroads where you can park your car to start the trekking.
Without a vehicle: From El Bolsón, take the La Golondrina transport at the Pagano square, signposted "to Wharton", the stop is right at the crossroads.
