Parque Nacional Nahuel Huapi

The city of Bariloche is actually within the park boundaries of Parque Nacional Nahuel Huapi and is located on the grand and scenic Lago Nahuel Huapi. It reminded us a little of Coeur d' Alene but Bariloche is 150,000 strong. After a few days of checking out the area via rental car, we began our much anticipated hut to hut trek in the park. Packing was a breeze without tents to worry about but somehow we managed to still have gigantic backpacks to carry up the hill. Too much food, perhaps? The traverse we planned to do was open only to experienced trekkers so we took full advantage of our collective experience and enjoyed a strenuous but spectacular hike through the high peaks of Argentina's lake district. The descents were long and difficult and the climbs often required a version of rock climbing wearing packs but the views were unforgettable. The huts were all situated on various mountain lakes and had large bunk rooms set up for stinky backpackers to catch some shut eye. It was an interesting experience, to say the least, but we met some wonderful folks along the way and enjoyed the luxury of an indoor kitchen and warmth while in the backcountry. One night, we were even able to scrounge some pizza fixins from a fellow backpacker. Nothing better than pizza in the backcountry!

We have now headed back into Chile and will be dropping down to the island of Chiloe tomorrow for a few days on the water. Only 3 1/2 weeks before we head home from Buenos Aires and we still have a lot to see.