Cycle alongside Lago Fagnano then into the Martial mountains, before crossing Paso Garibaldi and descending toward the Beagle Channel and the tourist-hub of Ushuaia.
From Tolhuin, rejoin Ruta 3 and head south. Consider taking the short scenic detour to the main route by heading southwest from Tolhuin and along the east shore of Lago Fagnano — this ripio road rejoins Ruta 3 at the 6 km mark (and only adds 1.5 km to your ride). The route curves to the west, tracking the southeast shore of Lago Fagnano before turning south and climbing past – then above – Lago Escondido to Paso Garibaldi.
Water Warning!
All water on Isla Grande de Tierra del Fuego collected from natural water sources must be treated before consumption. In 1946, fifty North American beavers were introduced to the island in a misguided attempt to create a fur trade. History has proven this to be a catastrophically terrible decision – the beavers now number in the hundreds-0f-thousands, damming rivers (which causes irregular flooding) and spreading giardia.
Directions
 |
Tolhuin |
|
|---|---|---|
| Rejoin Ruta 3 (from town or via east shore of Lago Fagnano) | ||
| 4 km | Río Turbio | |
| 6 km | Trace southern shore of Lago Fagnano for ~30 km | |
| 14 km | Río Valdez | |
| 24.5 km | Río Tuerto | |
| 30 km | Río Milna (connects Lago Escondidio and Lago Fagnano) | |
| 39 km | Route bends southwest toward mountains and climbing begins (+400 m / 17 km) | |
| 46.5 km | Lago Escondido | |
| 56 km | Paso Garibaldi mountain pass (fantastic views) | |
| 56.5 km | Descent (-300 m / 9 km) | |
| 63 km | Hairpin turn, route turns west to follow Río Lasifahaj | |
| 70 km | Gradual ascent (+230 m / 16 km) | |
| 77 km | Cerro Castor ski resort | |
| 86 km | Descent (-400 m / 17 km) | |
| 96.5 km | Ushuaia police checkpoint | |
| 102 km | Turn left (south) at the rotunda for downtown Ushuaia (upon reaching the Beagle Channel, head west for the tourist information office and to snap a classic photo with the "Fin del Mundo" sign) | |
|
Ushuaia |
Camping Recommendation
Lago Escondido
There a plenty of great spots to wild camp along the lake, including an abandoned hosteria and multiple abandoned cabañas. From Ruta 3, take the side gravel road toward the lake (signed "Host. Petrel"). Coordinates: -54.650439, -67.785416. Don't worry, you won't need to backtrack: the side road meets up with Ruta 3 just after Paso Garibaldi (note: this involves an extremely steep climb).
Location |
|---|
| -54.655432, -67.799029 |
Category |
|---|
| Wild |
Cost |
|---|
| Free |
Water Source |
|---|
| BYOW (bring your own water) |
Highlights |
|---|
| Lakeside Shelter |
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.