Welcome to Chilean Patagonia! Experience incredible views of rivers and lakes as you roll westward through rainforest valleys along the mighty Fú.
Overview
Leaving Futaleufú, the pavement is extremely short-lived and ripio commences immediately after crossing Río Espolon. This river is home to world-class fly fishing and many kayaking and white-water rafting tours. After meandering alongside Río Espolon and Lago Lonconao, the route crosses Río Azul and enters the Futaleufú valley.
Mudslides, Villa Santa Lucía
In December 2017, the village of Villa Santa Lucía was devastated by a mudslide that took at least 5 lives. Reports indicate that a temporary road has been established re-connecting Ruta 235 with the Carretera Austral. Use caution, follow all posted signs and be prepare for delays.
Directions
 |
Futaleufú |
|
|---|---|---|
| Head south on Ruta 231 | ||
| 1 km | Ripio commences immediately after crossing Puente Río Espolon | |
| 4 km | Short-but-steep downhill before the road reunites with Río Espolon for ~1 km | |
| 8 km | Sharp uphill into Lago Lonconao | |
| 17 km | After Lago Lonconao, fast downhill (-150 m/ 3 km) | |
| 20 km | Puente Río Azul | |
| 21 km | ~ 7 km of easy downhill riding as the road descends toward Río Futaleufú | |
| 28 km | Good spot for a break; stroll across the pedestrian bridge and keep an eye out for rafters and kayakers below | |
| 35 km | Road takes a steep, sharp left turn before crossing Río Futaleufú (river access is easiest on south side of bridge) | |
| 46.5 km | Turn right onto Ruta 235, following signs for Villa Sta. Lucía/Chaitén/Coyhaique | |
| 48.5 km | Puente Río Malito; Puerto Ramirez is off to the right — some accommodation may be available here | |
| 52 km | Reunite with, then bid farewell to your friend Fú (which feeds into Lago Yelcho shortly ahead) | |
| 54 km | Terrible ripio conditions | |
| 60 km | Hola, Lago Yelcho! | |
| 62 km | Lago Yelcho Wild Camp (aka beach paradise) | |
| 62 km | Short-but-steep climb away from Lago Yelcho | |
| 73 km | Steep climb on some not-so-sweet ripio | |
| 76 km | Sign for Carretera Austral | |
|
Villa Santa Lucía |
Camping Recommendations
There is a good mix of wild camping and organized/paid camping options along Río Futaleufú and one particularly awesome wild camping spot on the shore of Lago Yelcho.
Río Futaleufú Wild Camp
~8 kilometers before the Ruta 235 intersection, there is a great wild camp on the bank of Río Futaleufú with flat, level ground and shade. To get there, follow the short gravel road to the river bank. The area is technically private land and the landowners might visit — they are usually fine with cyclists and tent campers. No fires, respect the owners' posted signs (if any) and, as usual, leave no trace.
Location |
|---|
| -43.427393, -72.089325 |
Category |
|---|
| Wild |
Cost |
|---|
| Free |
Water Source |
|---|
| Río Futaleufú |
Highlights |
|---|
| Río Futaleufú |
Lago Yelcho Wild Camp
Large secluded spot, hidden from the road on the southern shore of Lago Yelcho. Previous campers have set up a fire pit and stump seating at one of the sites. To get to the site, go around the locked gate and follow the driveway down to the lake. Great spot to spend a rest day and enjoy a swim.
Location |
|---|
| -43.420530, -72.231586 |
Category |
|---|
| Wild |
Cost |
|---|
| Free |
Water Source |
|---|
| Lago Yelcho |
Highlights |
|---|
| Secluded Fire ring Bench seating |
Tour Total
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.