Sendero Laguna Esmeralda
A loop trail climbing through lenga and ñire forest to Laguna Esmeralda, a turquoise glacial lake ringed by mountains. Snow is common on the upper stretch. One of Ushuaia's favorites.
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance: 9.3 km
- Duration: 3–5 hours
- Elevation gain: 350 m
- Max altitude: 550 m
- Best season: Nov – Mar
- Trailhead: Ruta J (camino a Valle Andorra), Ushuaia
- Park / area: Sierra Alvear — Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego
Nearby trails
Frequently asked questions
How long does the Sendero Laguna Esmeralda trek take?
Sendero Laguna Esmeralda takes 3–5 hours to complete, covering 9.3 km with 350 m of elevation gain, rated moderate.
Is Sendero Laguna Esmeralda suitable for beginners?
Sendero Laguna Esmeralda is rated moderate: it needs basic fitness and some prior mountain experience, but it isn’t technical.
Do I need a permit to hike Sendero Laguna Esmeralda?
No, Sendero Laguna Esmeralda doesn’t require an advance permit.
When is the best time to hike Sendero Laguna Esmeralda?
The recommended season is Nov – Mar. Sliabh’s map shows current daylight hours and a live weather/solar panel for the exact trailhead.
Where does the Sendero Laguna Esmeralda trailhead start?
The trailhead is at Ruta J (camino a Valle Andorra), Ushuaia, in Sierra Alvear — Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego province. Sliabh’s 3D map and downloadable GPX track show the exact starting point.
Can I download an offline map or GPX track for Sendero Laguna Esmeralda?
Yes — Sliabh provides a downloadable GPX track and an offline 3D map for Sendero Laguna Esmeralda, so it works with no signal on the trail.
Sierra Alvear (Ushuaia) · Hiking in Southern Patagonia