Welcome to Patagonia! Stunning views and fast descents await you on this scenic first leg through Parque Nacional Nahuel Huapi, the cornerstone of Argentina's picturesque lake district.
Overview
San Carlos de Bariloche is the fifth largest city in Patagonia. Given the size of the city, your exit strategy will depend on the location of your Bariloche accommodations. A local bike shop suggests avoiding Ruta 258, which passes through the poorest area of the city. We advise following the southern shore of Lago Nahuel Huapi around Cerro Otto (via Bustillo and RP-82) — not the most direct route, but very scenic.
Directions
 |
Bariloche |
|
|---|---|---|
| Head west on Avenida Exequiel Bustillo, following the south shore of Lago Nahuel Huapi | ||
| 8.5 km | Turn left onto Francisco de Biedma, following signs for Cerro Catedral and El Bolsón | |
| 8.8 km | At the first roundabout (rotonda), take a right and merge onto RP-82 | |
| 10 km | At the second rotonda, veer left/straight | |
| 14 km | Lago Gutierrez—a great spot for a water break and/or snack; on the north shore of the lake there is easy beach access and a hostel | |
| 16.5 km | Follow the paved road as it (briefly) turns eastward and ascends to the Ruta 40 junction | |
| 19 km | Turn right (south) onto Ruta 40 | |
| 19.2 km | Enter Parque Nacional Nahuel Huapi (no ticket or payment required) | |
| 33 km | Lago Mascardi | |
| 40 km | Start climbing; enjoy fantastic views of Lago Guillelmo; good wild camp at 48km on the lake | |
| 53 km | Refill your water supply at the largest (and easiest to access) arroyo (~2 km after the southern bank of Lago Guillelmo); (coordinates -41.438490, -71.485511) | |
| 61 km | Fast downhill begins | |
| 74 km | Río Villegas; good wild camp | |
| 75 km | Gendarmeria (Argentine military checkpoint) — they'll likely wave you through immediately, or perhaps after questioning you about your cargo or requesting to see your passport | |
| 76 km | Steady 10 km ascent into El Foyel | |
| 85 km | El Foyel — small community where you can purchase basic food supplies at the Confitería or make camp at El Viejo (located at the southern edge of town, east of Ruta 40) | |
| 90 km | Steep descent into Río Foyel valley | |
| 94 km | Río Foyel — great riverbank for camping, resting or simply enjoying a meal | |
| 99 km | Spectacular 30km+ descent into El Bolsón | |
|
El Bolsón |
Camping Recommendation
Lago Guillelmo Wild Camp
Lago Guillelmo is the beautiful lake located just south of Lago Mascardi. Access to a great wild camping spot can be found ~5 km south of the Ruta 82 junction (~48 km from Bariloche), where a steep path on the left leads to the lake. About one kilometer further, there is great space for wild camping. The spot is not accessible for vehicles as the path is very steep.
Location |
|---|
| -41.395185, -71.497447 |
Category |
|---|
| Wild |
Cost |
|---|
| Free |
Water Source |
|---|
| Lago Guillelmo |
Highlights |
|---|
| Lakeside Secluded |
Explore Nearby
The above route information is intended to be used as a guide in conjunction with your own due diligence. Although Bicycle Patagonia is a product of extensive research, we make no representations, guarantees nor assurances as to the accuracy of the above information or the associated .gpx and .kml files. Prior to beginning the route, be sure to check local weather forecasts & road conditions. While out riding, respect Patagonia – follow all public and private land use restrictions, carry proper safety and navigational equipment, and always #leavenotrace.