The top 13 trails for trekking in Mendoza

This pre-Andean hill offers a 4.5 km trail starting at Puesto Puerta de la Quebrada, with a steady climb to its summit. From there, you'll enjoy the best panoramic views of the city and its surroundings, as well as TV and communication antennas. This hike isn't difficult but requires moderate physical effort.

From this high point, you can return to the base or continue west to access the Santo Tomás de Aquino hills and, later, El Gateado (2120 m.a.s.l.), completing a chain of three summits, which will take about 6 hours of intense exercise.

Tip: At the base, you can enjoy the mountain restaurant, which doubles as a mountain museum with equipment and stories from all times. The meat empanadas are delicious, and to "hydrate," try the craft beer.

Where: El Challao in Las Heras. Free access, private parking. If you don't have a car, check for bus lines that stop near the entrance.

This attraction offers different trails showcasing the area's scenic and geological richness, taking you on a journey 200 million years back in time. Along the way, you can stop at various ravines, geological faults, flora, fauna, and a stream that flows from a waterfall. It also offers a glimpse into the area's mining history.

The short circuit takes 1 to 2 hours, the medium circuit 2 to 3 hours, and the long circuit 3 to 5 hours. Its technical difficulty is easy and requires minimal physical effort.

Tip: Many school groups and families choose this spot to enjoy a walk in nature. You can inquire about guided tours to learn more about the reserve.

Where: Provincial Route No. 99, 8 km from the city. Entrance ticket required. Buses stop near the entrance.

Located within the Mountain Sports Park, near Cerro de la Gloria and the Frank Romero Day Theater, this area offers various circuits for sports activities like cycling, hiking, mountain biking, running, and trail running.

It is popular with trekking groups and people of all ages due to its easy access and the 360° views of the foothills and the city from its summit.

Tip: The Mountain Sports Park features a 200-meter asphalt Pump Track with mounds, jumps, and banked curves. There's a school track with rounded edges, suitable for kids from age 3, and any type of bike, regardless of skill level, is welcome.

Where: Mountain Sports Park, west of General San Martín Park. Free access and parking. Several bus lines stop at the entrance.

It offers incomparable panoramic views of the Mendoza River and the city. The hill gets its name from the dark color visible from a distance due to the abundant vegetation and the rock that forms it. A small stream winds through the rocks, and along its banks, exotic plants like wild roses and raspberries can be found.

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The hike spans 7.5 km with an estimated time of 3 to 6 hours and a maximum elevation of 2140 m.a.s.l. Its physical demand and difficulty level are low.

Tip: The entrance is through La Crucesita Camping, where an affordable entry fee is charged. You can also camp there. It’s the most popular spot to park vehicles.

Where: From Route 82, a dirt road leads north to the campground.

This small hill on the way to Cerro Negro offers a natural environment of pure vegetation. Its difficulty is low, and the hike is short, making it an ideal option for families and those seeking a recreational experience.

Descending back to the ravine, you can continue hiking toward the waterfalls. About 30 minutes from Campanario, the path splits into three. To the right, you'll find a perfect spot to rest, with beautiful trees and native vegetation. Another path leads to a spring or small waterfall. The descent is quick and easy, except for the wild rose bushes you’ll have to avoid.

Tip: At the summit, there's a large metal bell that every hiker rings. Its resonant sound echoes through the ravines, making for a unique experience.

Where: From Route 82, a dirt road leads north to the campground. An entry fee is charged.

The charm of this trail lies in the presence of water for most of the gorge, with tall rock walls covered in typical vegetation creating a microclimate. At the gorge’s end, you’ll find a small waterfall.

This easy route offers a potable water source after 2 hours of walking. One hour further, you’ll reach the fork leading to the waterfall.

Tip: If you’re a bird lover, keep an eye out, as several species come to drink from the stream along the way.

Where: The starting point is on Provincial Route 82, near the Alvarez Condarco hydroelectric plant. You can park at nearby restaurants or campsites.

Its distinctive shape catches the eye of those traveling through the area. This challenging hill is a great attraction, with its summit at 2070 meters above sea level. It is considered a 4 to 8-hour round trip to reach the summit and return to the base.

The elevation gain makes its 10-kilometer route a significant physical challenge. The "humps" along the path—hence its name—feature steep slopes and false summits, but it's all worth it as you’ll find panoramic views of the Potrerillos Dam at the top.

Tip: This hill offers the chance to observe the majestic flight of the Andean condor. During October and November, the blooming cacti add a splash of color to the trail.

Where: The trail begins across from the La Curva campsite, located on Provincial Route 82.

This trek is easily accessible, of low difficulty, and offers mesmerizing beauty. It’s about 4 kilometers of connection with nature, suitable for both adults and children.

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Upon reaching the stunning waterfall, you’ll encounter a natural stream almost 10 meters high, which flows from Manantiales and empties into the Mendoza River. This destination has become a refreshing refuge against the high temperatures.

Tip: You can go rappelling here, an activity for which a guide is recommended. The adrenaline will kick in as you descend a vertical wall over 20 meters high, using proper safety equipment.

Where: Accessible via National Route 7, about 10 kilometers from the entrance to Potrerillos.

This trail is popular because, from a distance, it resembles the back of a crocodile. It is perfect for families looking to share a mountain experience, with a hike of 2 to 3 hours.

Throughout the hike, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Mendoza River, the Cordón del Plata range, and the stunning Potrerillos Dam. Its whitish clay soil and the various rock strata tell the fascinating geological story of its formation.

Tip: Being so close to the dam and local campsites, this hike can be the perfect prelude to a weekend barbecue or picnic at the foot of the Andes.

Where: The starting point is 350 meters from the Plaza and Civic Center of Potrerillos.

This is the first stop in the provincial park and the first campsite for climbers aiming for the highest peaks. It’s a low-technical difficulty trail, but the main challenge is the altitude. This hike allows for gradual acclimatization, so maintaining a slow pace and staying well-hydrated is essential.

But the climb is worth it, as you’ll reach a plateau at 3215 meters above sea level, with stunning 360° views of the entire Cordón del Plata range. The rock formations, fauna, flora, and a stream with meltwater create an impressive backdrop for this mountain experience.

Tip: Upon entry, it's important to register with the park rangers, informing them of your destination and the estimated time of the trek.

Where: Vallecitos, via Guiñazú Street, which begins at one of the curves of Route 89, connecting Potrerillos and Las Vegas. The entrance is well signposted.

From Las Veguitas, those interested can continue climbing to the next camp called Piedra Grande, located at 3580 meters above sea level. Don’t forget to register with the park rangers, and a guide is recommended.

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As you ascend, your body needs to adapt to the reduced oxygen at higher altitudes, requiring additional physical effort and constant hydration.

Tip: This area is home to small birds and condors. It's also common to spot guanacos, foxes, and pumas.

Where: Vallecitos, via Guiñazú Street, which begins at one of the curves of Route 89, connecting Potrerillos and Las Vegas. The entrance is well signposted.

This is a 2-hour walk along well-marked trails until you reach the Panoramic Viewpoint, from which you can see the Horcones Lagoon and the south face of Aconcagua. It’s a low-difficulty trek, so no guide is required, and it’s suitable for all ages.

If there are no children in the group and everyone is in good physical condition, you can continue hiking to the Quebrada del Durazno Bridge, a suspension bridge over the Horcones River. This route is a 6 km round trip to Horcones, at an altitude of about 3,000 meters above sea level.

Tip: You can take advantage of the trip to visit the Puente del Inca Natural Monument, part of the Inca road system “Qhapac Ñan,” which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a natural biomineral bridge over the Cuevas River, with unique characteristics.

Where: Aconcagua Provincial Park, located on National Route 7, 185 km from Mendoza City. You need to purchase an entry ticket.

After passing by the Horcones Lagoon and the suspension bridge, you can continue trekking to the base camp of Cerro Aconcagua, Confluencia. This is around a 6-hour journey between 3,000 and 3,400 meters above sea level, making it a moderately challenging hike.

The view of the mountain is breathtaking, but be mindful that the cold and altitude play their part. It’s a picturesque sight of colorful tents belonging to climbers from different countries preparing for their ascent of the tallest peak in the Americas.

Tip: From this point, you can embark on other hikes, such as the one to Plaza Francia. Those continuing the expedition can spend the night at this camp. It’s moderately difficult and suitable for people who regularly exercise.

Where: Aconcagua Provincial Park, located on National Route 7, 185 km from Mendoza City. You need to purchase an entry ticket.