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Greater Patagonian Trail

5872 bytes añadidos, 22:03 15 may 2022
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{{borradorIndexed}}[[category:KMZconTrack]]{{RutaForm2RutaForme
|Actividad=Trekking
|País=Argentina, Chile
|CiudadesArgentina=El Bolsón
|CiudadesChile=CuricóSantiago
|BellezaEscenica=Impresionante
|Atractivos=Vistas panorámicas, Glaciar, Bosque, Flora atractiva, Fauna atractiva, Lago, Laguna, Río, Fiordos, Formación Geológica, Cascada, Parque Nacional
|DuraciónDuracion=más de 80 90 días|Dificultad Física=Exigente|Dificultad Técnica=Alta
|Sendero=Tramos sin sendero
|Señalizacion=Insuficiente
|Infraestructura=Inexistente
|TipoTrekComparteIdayRetorno=RecorridoCruce|Latitud1=-38|Longitud1=-73|Distancia=1350 km.3035000|MetrosAscenso=116000|MetrosDescenso=116000|Comentarios distancia=Regular Route (Hiking Option and Packrafting Option without Exploration Sections)|DesnivelAltitudMedia=50.000 metros900
|Primer Autor=Jan Dudeck
|Tipo de Extensión Imagen=jpg|Imágen Principal=Main IMG Greater Patagonian TrailGreater_patagonian_trail.JPGjpg |ComentariosImagen=Sector Descabezado, View to Laguna CaracolGPT16: [[Volcán Mocho]] on the background. |KMLZ=Greater Patagonia TrailGPT_Minimized_NOT_FOR_HIKING_AND_PACKRAFTING.kmz|ComentariosMapa=<span style="background-color:#808080; color:RED">'''Red:'''</span> Section 1, 3, 5, 7, 9: Regular Trekking Trail (No packraft required) <br><span style="background-color:#808080; color:MAGENTA">'''Magenta:'''</span> Section 2, 4, 6, 8, 10: Regular Trekking Trail (No packraft required) <br><span style="background-color:#808080; color:blue">'''Blue:'''</span> Section 11, 13, 15: Packraft Trail (Packraft recommended, if not avaialble use Alternative Trails) <br><span style="background-color:#808080; color:CYAN">'''Cyan:'''</span> Section 12, 14, 16: Packraft Trail (Packraft recommended, if not avaialble use Alternative Trails) <br><span style="background-color:#808080; color:ORANGE">'''Orange:'''</span> Optional Side Trips i.e. climbs to summits of volcanos <br><span style="background-color:#808080; color:ORANGE">'''Orange:'''</span> Alternative Trails i.e. alternative trails around lakes if no packraft available <br>|width=600|height=1800
|TipoDeMap=HYBRID
|ComentariosMapa=GPT SAMPLE Minimized (NOT FOR HIKING AND PACKRAFTING) {{colores|red|Trail.}}{{colores|blue|Packraft.}}{{colores|blue|Packraft.}}
}}
==General Description==
[[Archivo:Laguna_Los_Hornitos.jpg|thumb|400px|right|Greater Patagonian Trail: Pass 2540 m viewing to Laguna Los Hornitos. Imagen: Jan Dudeck]]
To be issued.
<br style==Images==[http"clear:both" //www.panoramio.com/user/7876187?show=best Here you find a selection of images from all 16 sections of the Greater Patagonian Trail.]>
==Trail Sections==The entire trail is broken into 16 sections that require between 3 to 10 days each. Every section connects seamless with the following section and starts and ends near a road with public transportation. Therefore each section can be hiked as an individual trail or several sections can be combined to a longer trip depending on how much time you want to hike.{{Table all GPTs}}
<br style==Expected Duration==Hiking the complete trail requires approx. 90 to 120 days. This inculdes some rest days and resupply bus trips to nearby towns."clear:both" />
==Recommended SeasonIntroduction==If you plan to do the entire trail starting with section 1 you should leave in December.
On the first sections several high passes [[File:GPT01-P0115.jpg|thumb|500px|right|GPT06: The volcanos Descabezado Grande and rivers need Cerro Azul with the Laguna Caracol to be crossedtheir feet. Snow and high riverImage: Jan Dudeck]][[File:GPT08-waterArriero.jpg|thumb|500px|GPT09: Arriero at the base of the Vulcano Antuco. Image: Jan Dudeck]][[File:GPT06-levels during snowmelt may make this difficult and dangerous until early DecemberP0005. Therefore leaving before December may put you jpg|thumb|500px|GPT11: Araucaria trees in risk when crossing rivers and passes; if you leave the Pehuenche homeland. Image: Jan Dudeck]][[File:GPT13-P0028.jpg|thumb|500px|GPT18: Cross Country walking on volcanic ash at Cordon Caulle after December you may be surprised by recent eruption. File: Jan Dudeck]][[File:GPT28-Rio_Palena.jpg|thumb|500px|GPT28: Packrafting the heralds of the winter before reaching Río Palena. Image: Jan Dudeck]][[File:GPT_Glaciar_O'Higgins.jpg|thumb|500px|GPT38: Glaciar O'Higgins coming down from the finishSouthern Icefield. Image: Jan Dudeck]]
If you have The Greater Patagonian Trail (GPT) is a packraft and you do not insist in hiking all trail sections long-distance route network in the correct sequence you have more options when and where to start. You may in example set out already in October or November with section 11 in Coñaripe (first packraft section). This also give you southern Andes that spans from the advantage outskirts of floating down Santiago all the river Caucuá with comfortable high river-water-levels during snow melt (section 11). Once your reached the finish of section 16 your can travel by bus way to the start of section 1 and complete the trail without carrying the packraft any moresouthern Patagonia.
==Trekking Direction==
The generally recommended trekking direction is southbound even if most sections can be hiked in either direction. Some sections require a entrance permit if you hike northbound. This limitation applies to section 1, 2-3, 12. Also for section 11 the southbound limitation applies. Only in this direction you can float down the river Caucuá with your packraft.
==Logistical Considerations==There are no proper shops along It’s a stunningly beautiful and diverse trail system that guides you from the first seven sections semi-desert of the trailPrecordillera into scenic Andes valleys. The first regular food store on the trial comes after 600 km at the finish of section 7trails cross numerous dormant and active volcanos with partially healed volcanic scars and fresh open wounds from recent eruptions. Therefore reaching the finish of a section gives you the opportunity to You can take a bus and to travel to dip in more than a dozen hot springs along the next village or town way to resupply. A true through-hike would require the setup of food depots on strategic points along the routedraw from this energy.
The product range Continuing, in particular you will dive into the supply twilight of dehydrated trekking food, is limited or non-existing in smaller villages lush green temperate rainforest lined by snow covered mountains. Numerous passes and towns. If high plains get you prefer to have some special stuff that you find only in Santiago or that you bring above the tree line into barren terrain with you broad views. Crystal clear rivers descend from overseas you have the following option: You can pack a box with food these mountains and gear in Santiago and send with one of feed deep blue lakes along the mayor bus companies to yourself to a town where you plan a resupply stopway. The bus company will store your package until pick it up. There If you packraft you can take out of your box what you need paddle over lakes and resend float down rivers all the way into the Patagonian fjords where the box to Pacific Ocean hits the next resupply townragged coast.
As non-Chilean tourist with a regular tourist visa you can stay up to 90 days in Chile. The easiest way to renew your visa is travelling to Argentina before you complete your 90 days and returning a few days later to Chile. On re-entry you will normally be granted another 90 days.
==Recommended Equipment==A packraft is a lightEventually you reach the Southern Patagonian Icefield, one of the world's largest extra-weight inflatable boat designed to be carried in backpack when not needed but to carry polar Icefields. Here giant rock towers stab into the backpacker over leaks and rivers when he needs it. A packraft is recommended for sections 10, 11, 12, 13, 15 sky and 16enormous glaciers calve colossal blocks of ice into wind battered lakes.
[http://www.panoramio.com/user/7876187/tags/Packraft Here you find some images of our packraft.]
==GPS File for Trekking==The KMZ file displayed on On the satellite map above northern part of the route you will meet solitary cowboys (In Chile called arrieros or puesteros) with their animals. Every spring the livestock is optimized moved on higher ground to provide a good overview but does not include waypoints graze on mountain pastures. The trail later crosses the homeland of the indigenous Pehuenche (one of the Mapuche tribes) where majestic Araucaria trees tower above the tribal land and detailed information provide the traditional food for hikingthese sometimes shy and sometimes proud people. Therefore When going further south you will meet courageous settlers that have ventured into the file below should be downloaded and used if challenging back-country of Patagonia. If you actually plan are interested, you can listen to hike a section or their stories while sitting around the warm stove and sharing the traditional drink of this region: Mate. These authentic encounters are part of the entire Greater Patagonian Trailbeauty of this trail.
[[Media:GreaterPatagonianTrail-20140726In countless locations the trail branches into different routes creating a wide network of tracks that gives you many choices.kmz|Greater Patagonian Trail with Waypoints, Options You may either walk the entire distance or you can bring a packraft to float down rivers and Alternatives (kmz file, update from 2014-Jul-26)]]paddle and sail over lakes and fjords.
The file is organized in folders There are also various volcanoes and subfolders for a better overview in particular when viewing and organizing other summits along the trail on a computerroute that can be ascended without rock climbing gear. There is one folder for each section and each section contains a subfolder for waypoints and a subfolder for I have also included optional tracksthat get you literally into the last valley on the border between Chile and Argentina. These remote corners of the southern Andes are of particular interest to hikers that love to venture into remote back-country.
The Main Route currently spans approximately 5'000 km and the entire route network (including all options) contains more than 20'000 km of tracks.
===Waypoints===
The waypoints are named with the item.
Common items are: StartIf this introduction quickened your appetite to explore this network of trails then don't stop reading here and don't pack your backpack yet. The GPT is quite different from what you might expect. Especially if you have thru-hiked the famous long-distance trails in the US (i.e. the Appalachian Trail, River Crossing, Water, Pass, Camp, Refuge, Bus Stop the Pacific Crest Trail or the Continental Divide Trail) or if you walked on the European pilgrimage trails (Finishi.e. the Camino de Santiago) …don't assume that the GPT will be a similar experience and that you are already prepared for it. This region and this route network is unequal in nature. Some best practices and habits that are important on established trails in the US and Europe would be foolish in Patagonia. Other skills and aptitudes are essential to truly appreciate the Greater Patagonian Trail.
A running number is added in brackets Since I started publishing the GPT, I consulted and surveyed more than one hundred people that attempted to be able to refer in walk major parts of the trail description to specific waypoints. The majority were absolutely amazed by the land, the people and their experience on the trail. But some hikers quickly aborted or changed their plans. In consequence they missed the best parts of the trail. Interestingly, some of these were experienced hikers and athletic walkers.
Example waypoint name: “Start (GPT01-WP001)”
* GPTIn the [http: //bit.ly/GPTguide Hikers Manual] I try to rectify potential incorrect assumptions and outline the essentials for hiking and packrafting on this trail network. You should also read the publications of other hikers and packrafters to learn from the diverse experiences on the Greater Patagonian Trail.
* 01: Section 1
* WP'''Statements about the GPT by Hikers and Packrafters: Waypoint'''
* 001: Running number
Bethany Hughes and Lauren Reed (Fidgit and Neon): "This trail has been the most punishing and the most magical experience of my hiking career to date.”
===Tracks===
The track of each section is broken into smaller segments to differentiate between different trail types.
Used Piia Kortsalo and Oliver Barker: "We’re filled with incredible memories of our time on the GPT, and the landscape and culture of the Chilean Andes will stay with us forever. While hiking the GPT was an incredible experience for us, we don't imagine this as the right trail types for everyone. The GPT is closer to an idea of a route than an established trail; hikers setting out expecting a well-organized, continuous, marked hiking trail will inevitably be disappointed. The GPT really is a route for a very specific sort of hiker, one who's as interested in natural history and cultural experience as they are:in trail miles."
* 0: Cross country (no visible trail)
* 1Brian Tanzman (Buck-30): Hiking trail or horse trail"Honestly, I wouldn't recommend hiking the GPT to any of my thru hiking friends."
* 2: Minor dirt road with no or insignificant traffic (also abandoned road or closed private road)
* 3Garrett Martin: Mayor dirt road "This trail is unlike any other trail in the world and requires detailed planning, determination, physical and mental strength and most importantly - respect for the people and environment along the trail. Throughout our 4-month journey, we discovered the beauty of the Andes Mountain range and the incredibly generous people that call this place their home. If you are considering hiking the GPT, please do so with moderate trafficextreme care for the land and the utmost respect for the locals living in this area.".
* 4: Paved road
*?Carla Lange: Not verified "The GPT is not a hiking trail section , it's an adventure and words do not do my experience on it justice. Travelling on the GPT was everything but easy (Remains to be hiked or necessarily fun all the time) but it returned it all and recorded by GPS more. Essential pieces of equipment to update bring on the trail file)GPT are your brain and intuition as well as humbleness, respect and openness for the land and people."
* L: Lake (Packraft)
* R: River Matgorzata (PackraftGosia)Gmerek and Paul Bostelmann: “The Greater Patagonian Trail Network is a challenging and rewarding adventure that leads one through diverse and breathtaking scenery. Far from crowds and often without seeing other people for days this experience was without a doubt the highlight of our hiking career. Packrafting and exploring the beautiful lakes and rivers allows to reach even deeper into these wonderful and wild ecosystems. This is no ordinary hike and absolute self-reliance and wilderness experience is a must.”
* S<br style="clear: Sea (Packraft)both" />
* F: Ferry==Information to the GPT==
[[File:GPT_Manual.jpg|thumb|500px|GPT Hiker's Manual]]
[[File:GPT_Settler_(2).jpg|thumb|500px|GPT22: Discussing route options with settlers at the Río Puelo. Image: Jan Dudeck]]
[[File:GPT10-Peuenche.jpg|thumb|500px|GPT09: Being guest at a Pehuenche family: Fresh milk, fresh cheese, fresh meat! Image: Jan Dudeck]]
[[File:GPT07-Laguna_del_Maule.jpg|thumb|right|500px|GPT07: Horse riding with Danilo and Jito (the founder and horse riding guide of [http://www.chile-horseriding.com/ www.chile-horseriding.com]) at the dormant Supervolcano Laguna del Maule. Image: Jan Dudeck]]
[[File:GPT09-Laguna_de_las_Lajas.jpg|thumb|500px|GPT09: Circling the volcano Antuco. Image: Jan Dudeck]]
[[File:GPT18-Lago_Pirihueco.jpg|thumb|500px|GPT18: Camping at the shore of Lago Pirihueco. Image: Jan Dudeck]]
[[File:GPT28P-Ferry.jpg|thumb|right|500px|GPT28P: Patagonian fjords seen from the ferry on the way from Raul Marin Balmaceda to Puerto Chacabuco. Image: Jan Dudeck]]
Example track name: "GPT01-TR006-1"The GPT is an informal route network therefore you will not find any “official” information. In the following I list all relevant resources that help to understand the GPT and to get prepared for an adventure on this trail system.
* GPT: Greater Patagonian Trail
* 01: Section 1===This GPT Wikiexplora Article===
* TR: TrackThis Wikiexplora article to the GPT is the internet gateway to this trail system. It is the first semi-official landing point for anyone searching information online and provides an introduction to the GPT. Wikiexplora is the cradle where the GPT publication started in 2014 and remains the “online home”.
* 006: Running number
* 1The Wikiexplora article comes with one weakness: Trail typeoffline access while being on the GPT. Therefore, the [http://bit.ly/GPTguide GPT Hikers’ Manual] was created in 2017. With this exmaple its a hiking trail or horse trail, the Wikiexplora GPT main article is now neither the only nor the best resource to get ready for an adventure on the GPT but the Wikiexplora articles provides an introduction to anyone “just browsing around”. And the Wikiexplora article gives access to the [http://bit.ly/GPTguide Hikers’ Manual] that can be downloaded from Dropbox.
A "X" is added to the track name for optional side trips or alternative trails.===The GPT Hikers Manual===
Example track nameThe Hikers’ Manual is the primary source of information for the GPT and can be downloaded free of charge at: "GPT01-TR007-0-X"http://bit.ly/GPTguide
The "X" at the end means that this is an optional side trip. In this example its the optional climb to the summit of the volcano Descabezado Grande.
==Verifications, Additional Options and Extensions==To be issued.The Hikers’ Manual consists of three parts:
==Section * 1: Volcán Descabezado==Introduction and General Information, * '''Duration: 6 to 8 days'''* '''Distance: 103 km'''* '''Ascent: 4970 meters ↗'''2 Terrain and Section Information and * '''Descent: 4870 meters ↘'''3 Appendix and Indices.
* ''Option 1: Climb to the summit of the volcano Descabezado Grande''
** ''Duration: 1 to 2 days''
** ''Distance: 16 km''
** ''Ascent: 2030 meters ↗''
** ''Descent: 2030 meters ↘''
* ''Option 2: Explore to hidden lakes''** ''Duration: ½ to Chapter 1 day''provides a general overview and a good understanding of the nature of the GPT. You should read the entire chapter 1 thoroughly if you consider hiking on this route network because this part of the Hikers’ Manual guides you through your preparation.
===Summary===
The first stage of the Greater Patagonian Trail gets you right into a mind-blowing volcanic theatre. The landscape is transformed by numerous powerful eruptions of the volcano Descabezado Grande and it’s equally potent smaller brothers in the surrounding. During the last major outbreak in 1932 the Quizapu; a parasitic crater 6 km south of the main crater; vomited an estimated 25 cubic kilometer of lava and volcanic ash.
After leaving the forest Chapter 2 familiarizes you will step through endless fields with the geography of pumice, climb three passes the southern Andes and cross a 4 km wide lava riverdescribes each section of the GPT. The struggle This local knowledge is rewarded with amazing outlooks, deep blue lakes essential to thoughtfully select your route on this vast network and lagoons that suddenly pop in a surreal scenery and two thermal springsto prepare yourself for each section while hiking. Here you can soak up heat Therefore, parts of chapter 2 are important during a freezing night the preparation phase while admiring a sky full of stars. You can even cook other parts will become your meal guide when hiking on one of the hot steam ventsGPT.
As an option your may climb to the 3900 m high summit of the “Great Decapitated”; this is what Descabezado Grande means. It’s a demanding long but technically uncomplicated ascent.
Chapter 3 goes deep into specific topics. You can will require this expertise for specific tasks e.g. when setting up your GPS or when calculating distances and estimating travel times. The Appendix also explore two hidden lagoons; one contains valuable additional information that fills an ancient crater and contribute to a second one that was dammed up by anothersmaller volcano. Both lakes are not far profound understanding of the trail near a scenic camp siteGPT and the region.
===Images===
[http://www.panoramio.com/user/7876187/tags/GPT%20Section%2001 Here you find a selection of images of section 1 of the Greater Patagonian Trail.]
===Expected Duration===The trail can be hiked in 6 days Hikers’ Manual is not available on paper but plan some contingency in case of bad weather only as a PDF document. It is designed to be read on a computer or if you suddenly fall in love with one of the amazing places on the routea smart¬phone while being online or offline. If the climate does not favor youTherefore, than you should not attempt to cross it is issued in the passesscreen-friendly 9:16 page format. In When reading this region bad weather normally does not last long so you are probably better off siting out document it is best to use full screen slide mode in landscape orientation. Normal vertical scrolling is less practical. Install a bad daysuitable app on your smartphone if needed.
If you are tempted to get up to the summit of the Descabezado Grande (GPT01-WP028) add two more days. The climb can be done in one long day or split up in two days when camping one night a bit further up.
===Recommended Season===This traverse The Greater Patagonian Trail is best be hiked between December an informal trail network that grows and Aprilchanges regularly. After And creating and updating the documentation to this evolving trail network relies on voluntary work only. Therefore, this Hikers’ Manual is not expected to be completed in the foreseeable future and will remain a mild winter growing and evolving document. This unfinished nature has been made intentionally visible by displaying empty chapters with less snow than usual you may already set out in November but red “To be aware that some rivers may be impassible high during snowmelt (in particular GPT01-WP018 issued.” remarks and GPT01-WP019)similar comments in red. If you plan to get up This shows what topics are planned to the summit of the Descabezado Grande without carrying crampons you should have better chances at the end of December or later when most of the snow is gonebe covered with future updates and where contributions and reviews are welcome.
===Trekking Direction===
The treck can be hiked in either direction but doing it from South to North requires an entrence permit from the hydropower station Cipreses (See Permits and Entrance Fees). Therefore southbound is the recommended direction.
===Permits Updates and Entrance Fees===CONAF does register all trekkers at Parque Ingles (GPT01-WP004) but does not charge an entrance fee. Camp fires additions to chapter 1 and chapter 3 are made first in the Hikers’ Manual and not permitted within simultaneously copied to the national park Wikiexplora main article. Therefore, the last published version of the Hikers’ Manual is the most current and comprehensive document available of the GPT. Note the publish date on the cover page in the bottom right corner and check occasionally for updates that reaches from Radal (GPT01-WP001) to are also advertised on the Laguna las Ánimas (GPT01-WP013)Facebook group.
If you want to see the cascades Siete Tazas about 7 km after the start in Radal you are charged a rather high entrance fee depending if you are a national or a foreign tourist. If you don’t want to spend the money and the time don’t worry; you will see plenty more cascades for free on the Greater Patagonian Trail.
If you wish to hike this trail in reverse from South to North you need to request a entrence permit in advance from You can download the hydropower station Cipreses. If you hike the trail as described GPT Hikers' Manual from North to South you will enter the property “from behind” without noticing it. Once you reach one of the permanentely manned gates they can’t send you back over the mountains but need to let you leave the compound. In contrast, if you try to enter without a permit you are probably turned backDropbox: [http://bit.ly/GPTguide Hikers Manual on Dropbox]
===Inhabitation and Tourism===
The last settlement on the trail is Parque Ingles about 10 km after Radal. This is also the last opportunity to spoil yourself with a good meal in a restaurant and to buy some goodies. On the trail that follows are only two occasionally used puestos; one at the Termas de Azufre (GPT01-WP020) and a second one at the Base Camp Descabezado Grande (GPT01-WP024).
The first 20 km from Radal to El Bolson are a popular hiking destination for national tourists. Some go up to the Laguna las Ánimas but few continue beyond this point.
===The Base Camp Descabezado Grande is frequently visited by national and international tourists coming from Vilches Alto. Also horseback tours often stop and rest here.Wikiexplora GPT Section Articles===
Hardly any The GPT route network (with currently more than 20’000 km of tracks) is divided into approx. 90 sections. Collecting and updating all essential information to all these sections can’t impossibly be done by a single author but requires the continuous collaboration of the community. To enable such a collaboration one Wikiexplora article was created for each section of the GPT. These wikies collect all the section specific information and are open for edits and additions by all GPT hikers take . So hikers that enjoy writing can become a co-author by editing the scenic trail section descriptions after their return from the Base Camp Descabezado Grande via GPT.  The informal and unpredictable nature of the Laguna Caracol GPT makes it also relevant that hikers quickly exchange updates and advices while travelling on this evolving route network. This can be information to temporary unpassable trail sections, volcano alerts, river conditions or anything that makes you think in hindsight: “I should have known this before!”. In the hydropower station CipresesWikiexplora section articles, hikers can post such alerts and advices. It’s Additionally, hikers can provide any other beneficial information and suggestion that is not yet included in the section description.  It is my intention to transfer the updated section information into the Hikers’ Manual before the start of each season to make this information available offline (chapter 2.5 Sections with the section documentations). But all hikers are advised the check the corresponding Wikiexplora GPT section articles before starting a hidden gemsection to read the latest updates and alerts of fellow hikers.  To promote an active collaboration, all GPT hikers must sign up in Wikiexplora in order to get access to the GPT track files.  ===The GPT Track Files=== The Greater Patagonian Trail is composed of existing routes that were mainly made by the local settlers to serve their purposes. Hikers are unexpected guests on many of these trails. Only smaller parts of these routes have some kind of trail markers.
===Food Supply===
You need to carry all the food for the entire trail. There is no food supply after Parque Ingles. If you meet arrieros at one of the Puestos you may ask for some goat or lamb meet but if you are not ready to take an entire or at least half an animal they may be reluctant to sell.
===Water Supply===Refill your water supply at A good part the marked river crossings trails and cross-country routes remained undocumented until recorded and published digitally for the campsGPT. In between these waypoints your will find only ocasinally some trinking water because water trickles away easily into Therefore, suitable paper maps are often not available, and the volcanic soil.Drinking the water few existing maps are inconsistent, of variable quality and insufficient to follow major parts the hot springs is not recommended because it can upset your stomach. Better take fresh water from the river or a cold spring nearbyGPT.
When climbing the Descabezado Grande take plenty of water from the base camp in particular if you plan to spend one night higher up. You may refill your supplies with snow near the summit.
===Maps===The electronic map Topo Chile Deluxe from Garmin shows only reliable way to navigate on the contours precisely but some lakes GPT is therefore a GPS with the digital track and smaller river are incorrect displayedwaypoint documentation that was specifically created for the GPT. Only few trail sections are integrated. Some of This digital documentation with the “Alleys” relevant geographic information consists of this electronic map are far off multiple files in different file types and is called in the true position following “GPT Track and Waypoint Documentation” or inexistent. You should use the Greater Patagonian Trail data files for navigationin short “Track Files”.
The paper trekking map “Condor Circuit” with a scale of 1:50’000 shows the trail from Parque Ingles to the Base Camp Descabezado Grande. This map is a useful supplement to the electronic map in particular if you need to abort the trip. In this case this map can guide on the shortest possible trail out of this isolated volcanic area i.e. to Vilces Alto.
===Difficulty===The isolation and the high passes make this Hikers that feel uncomfortable being guided by a rather difficult but rewarding trail. Good orientational skill are required because hardly any signposts are placed GPS need to learn and some parts adapt to this form of navigation or discard the trail idea of hiking the Greater Patagonian Trail. Such hikers may resort to the established public trails in Patagonia that are cross countrybetter signposted and more suitable for classic navigation with paper maps.
===Access to Start===
The trail starts in the tiny village Radal near the cascade "Siete Tazas".
During The track files are provided on personal request by the main season in January author free of charge but not unconditionally. Read Chapter 1 of the [http://bit.ly/GPTguide Hikers’ Manual] where you find the Code of Conduct on the GPT and February several buses go from Molina the Terms and Curico to Radal Conditions for Using the Hikers’ Manual and some even go all the way to Parque InglesTrack Files. Outside of the main season there is only one daily bus from Molina to Radal leaving Review these conditions and read why they were put in place. Should you agree all Terms and Conditions, follow the afternoon from the rural bus station instructions in MolinaHikers’ Manual.
===Return from Finish===
This trail section finished at the Route 115 to Talca.
All spring and summer run four buses per day on the route 115 between La Mina and Talca. La Mina is about 4 km up the road from the hydropower station Cipreses. In La Mina is the Chilean border control post and a thermal spring. Simply wait at the main road at one of the unmarked bus stops for the bus to Talca and call the attention of the bus driver when he approaches (GPT01-WP043 or GPT01-WP045). You may also try to hitchhike. ===The GPT Facebook Group===
From where The GPT Facebook Group is a communication platform for past, present and prospective GPT adventurers. Here all hikers can announce their intended plans, seek other hikers to return best depends if you want to connect with the next section of the Greater Patagonian Trail without leaving any gap. If you insist on hiking every step of the trail you should take the bus stop at the El Melado junction (GPT01-WP043). At this junction starts the form small groups, post brief summaries after completing a section 2 of this long distance trailor simply ask questions.
If you don’t mind to skip the less atractive 10 km streach along the Maule River then you can go straight to the Route 115 and take the closest bus stop (GPT01-WP045). You may also try to get a lift with one of the hydropower station workers from main gate to Talca or to San Clemente (GPT01-W044). From San Clemente leave frequent minibuses to Talca.
===Suggested Stages===To be issuedAnd what is more important: use the Facebook group to alert other hikers after running into a problem that may also affect others. Do this by first adding your description and suggestions to the relevant Wikiexplora GPT section article. Then either duplicate this information in the Facebook group or simply refer and link to your update in the Wikiexplora article.
===Waypoints===
'''Start (GPT01-WP001)''': Start in Radal at final bus stop. Only in January and February some busses continue to Parque Ingles.
'''Shop (GPT01-WP002)''': Small shop with basic supplies in Radal. Good to get The GPT Facebook Group is also the location where I now notify hikers when a beer and some extra goodies for new version of the night but not to supply you for Hikers’ Manual is published, when updated track files are available and where I share other news regarding the tripGPT.
'''Camp $ (GPT01-WP003)''': Nice, reasonable priced camp site in Radal. Recommen¬ded place for the first night if arriving in the evening.
'''Shop & Restaurant (GPT01-WP004)''': Parque Inglés with kiosk and a cosy restaurant about 10 km after the starting point. Last chance to enjoy the pleasures To become member of civilisation before heading into the wilderness[http://bit.ly/GPTfacebook GPT Facebook Group] you need a Facebook account and request access: http://bit.ly/GPTfacebook
'''Diversion, CONAF & Camp $ (GPT01-WP005)''': The hiking trail starts left. You should register at the CONAF office. There is a camp site nearby.
'''River Crossing (GPT01-WP006)''': Easy river crossing.===Publications to the GPT by other Hikers and Packrafters===
'''River Crossing (GPT01-WP007)''': Easy river crossingWith this Hikers’ Manual and the article on Wikiexplora I aim to create a systematic introduction and comprehensive documentation of the GPT. I intentionally try not to overload these documents with personal stories from the trail.
'''River Crossing (GPT01-WP008)''': Easy river crossing.
'''River Crossing (GPT01-WP009)''': Easy river crossingThere is another reason why my writing is rather technical. I’m an Engineer by trade, I work as an inspector and issue inspection reports on a regular base. For this I need to carefully choose my words to be factual and precise but also legally sound. Storytelling is neither needed nor welcome in my inspection reports. When numbers are available or when information can be structured into tables or charts than this is always preferred over well phrased verbal descriptions. You will notice these writing habits in the Hikers’ Manual and the Wikiexplora article.
'''Camp (GPT01-WP010)''': There are some nice camp sites on the meadows of El Bolson. Inside the national park CONAF does not permit camp fires.
'''Refuge (GPT01-WP011)''': Basic refuge in El Bolson that can shelter Keeping my personal stories mostly out and maintaining this documentation rather technical benefits a systematic preparation but makes the Hikers’ Manual and the article on Wikiexplora a bit bland. But for up to 4 personsmost hikers, and this includes me, the personal experience of the land and with the people are the dominating motives for such an endeavour. To tap on more personal experiences during your preparation watch some videos and read some blogs that were issued by GPT hikers in recent years. In these publications you find the diverse individual perceptions of the GPT. Some blogs openly describe mishaps and lessons learned and hopefully help other in avoiding the same mistakes.
'''Pass 2260 m (GPT01-WP012)''': First pass with nice view back into the Valle del Indio. After this pass comes a 2 km levelled section before ascending to the second pass.
The Hikers'''Lake (GPT01-WP013)''': Laguna Las ÁnimasManual provides in chapters 3.7 Distinct Contributors and 3. You may camp at 8 Publications to the lake but there is little shelter from windGPT a collection of links to videos and blogs that I consider particularly useful.
'''Water (GPT01-WP014)'''<br style="clear: Clear fresh water.both" />
'''Pass 2560 m (GPT01-WP015)''': Second pass with nice view towards Laguna Mondaca.==The GPT Route Network==
'''Camp (GPT01[[File:GPT36H-WP016)'''Ruta_de_los_Pioneros.jpg|thumb|500px|GPT36H: Probably Poorly maintained historic horse trail "Ruta de los Pioneros". Image: Jan Dudeck]][[File:GPT16-Quetrupillan.jpg|thumb|500px|GPT16: Circling the best camp spot near Laguna Mondaca volcano Quetrupillan with water, fire wood and some wind protectionthe volcano Villarica in the background.Image: Jan Dudeck]]
The Greater Patagonian Trail is not a hiking trail. Yes, you read correctly so let me repeat one more time: '''Lake (GPT01-WP017)The GPT is not a hiking trail.''': Laguna Mondaca.
'''River Crossing (GPT01-WP018)''': Difficult river crossing during snowmelt and after heavy rain. The river often changes it's bed therefore look for the optimal place to cross. Yon need to cross the river to avoid rocky terrain ahead.
'''River Crossing (GPT01-WP019)''': Difficult river crossing during snowmelt and after heavy rain. The river often changes So, what is it's bed therefore look for the optimal place to cross.then?
'''Hot Spring, Camp & Puesto (GPT01-WP020)''': Termas de Azufre. Excellent hot spring with several small pools. You may need to adjust the temperature by regulating the hot water inlet flow. No fire wood but you may heat water and food at the hot steam vents (follow the noise). Good camp site if you tolerate the sulphur smell. The posteros arrive in January.
'''River Crossing (GPT01The GPT is an informal route network that consists mostly of trails, roads and cross-WP021)''': Moderate difficult river crossingcountry routes that were not created with hikers in mind. Yon need to cross Most of the river trails were made by the local population to avoid steep loose pumice fields aheadserve their purposes, e.g. to drive animals to summer pastures, to get to remote settlements and outposts or to extract wood from the forest. The routes that the GPT is composed of include:
'''River Crossing * horse trails that are frequently used by the local cowboys (GPT01-WP022in Chile arriero or puestero, in Argentina gaucho)''': Easy river crossing,* poorly maintained and neglected trails that are washed out, trenched and blocked by fallen logs,* minor roads and simple car tracks that are occasionally used by all-terrain vehicles,* trail-less cross-country routes in barren open terrain,* a few short stretches of bush bashing through thick growth* and where no more adventurous route was found also public roads with moderate transit traffic.* Additionally, packrafters can cross mountain lakes, float down generally calm rivers and paddle in the Patagonian fjords.
'''Pass 2700 m (GPT01-WP023)''': The highest point of the entire Greater Patagonian Trail (apart from the summit of the Descabezado Grande).
'''Camp & Puesto (GPT01-WP024)''': Base Camp Descabezado Grande. Probably This diversity makes the best camp spot GPT so authentic but also inconsistent and in this area. You best take water from the spring on the right side of the river about 20 to 30 m from this waypoint. Frequently visited area. Base camp for climbing the Volcan Descabezado. Basic stone shelter occasionally used by local posteros and horseback guidesparts challenging.
'''Hot Spring (GPT01-WP025)''': One lukewarm pool at the Base Camp Descabezado Grande.
'''Water ? (GPT01-WP026)''': Possible access to water on Since the way GPT is an informal route network, few signposts and trail markers facilitate route finding and none of these signs and markers refer to the summitGPT. May be unreliable The national parks contain some marked trails, though these signs are often unmaintained and depending on snowmeltinconsistent. Please verify Outside of parks you may sporadically see chopped off bark, sun faded strips of plastic, beer cans or even cattle skulls hanging in a tree. That’s no vandalism or littering but how locals occasionally mark a route. But the landlords that regularly use these trails rarely need signposts as they know their trails inside-out and report nobody else is expected to trekking guide authorcome.
'''Cross (GPT01-WP027)''': Cross near the summit.
'''Summit 3900 m (GPT01On many of these trails a customary right-WP028)''': Summit of -way applies but some routes cross private land and you often can’t distinguish the difference. Therefore, when you venture onto the Descabezado GrandeGPT you are mostly an unexpected guest on trails that were not made for you, and you will trespass over private property. So be at least a respectful and friendly trespasser that can explain in Spanish what you are doing there.
'''River Crossing & Camp (GPT01-WP029)''': Astonishing oasis in the middle of a volcanic desert. Good camp site with water, fire wood and wind protection.
'''Lake (GPT01Unlike many long-WP030)distance hiking trails, the GPT is not a single-line trail but a wide route network with countless options. When hiking on the GPT you have the privilege and task of composing your own personal route by making your choices along the way. This makes every hike on the GPT a unique and incomparable experience. The number of options becomes evident when comparing the length of the Main Route (approximately 5''': Nearly 3 000 km long drainless lake Laguna Caracol in ) with the middle total length of pumice and lavaall tracks (more than 20’000 km).
'''Lake (GPT01-WP031)''': Hidden lake The GPT route network starts in volcanic crater the outskirts of the Chilean capital Santiago de Chile and reaches all the way to Tierra del Fuego and Isla Navarino on the southern tip of the continent. The actual length that can be seen from someone may walk and paddle on the next passGPT depends highly on the chosen route, the start and the finish point and the method of travel (hiking or packrafting).
'''Camp (GPT01-WP032)''': Camp site without fire wood and wind protection. Water is probably best taken from the spring 300 m upstream.
'''Water (GPT01-WP033)''': Clear fresh water springThe GPT is not a trail that can be hiked efficiently. The trail will change your plans without asking and inevitably stop you from time to time or even turn you around. Also, the period of suitable hiking weather is in parts quite short. Some sections become traversable December or January after most snow has molten and the rivers calmed down and can be forded safely. In late March or during April fierce snowstorms may make the route impassable again.
'''Lake (GPT01-WP034)''': Hidden lake that can be seen from the next pass.
'''Pass 2540 m The recommended pace on this route network is the "appreciation pace". This pace gives you the time to make an attractive detour, in example to climb a summit next to the trail without worrying about your schedule. This adequate rate of advance permits you to accept the invitation of a poblador (GPT01-WP035settler) ''': Pass to share some cups of mate or to sit out a day of torrential rain in a puesto (improvised shelter) with an arriero (Chilean cowboy, also called puestero). This adaptable pace permits you to wait in front of a pass if the weather is too volatile or to spend a day or two waiting at a lake if it is too windy to paddle with impressive viewyour packraft.
'''Camp (GPT01-WP036)''': Probably the best camp site in this area and the only one with a meadow. Sufficient water and fire wood. The lake further down is dusty and without fire wood.
This trail is therefore not suitable for hikers who are out to race a clock, or those that need full control and measure their success in kilo¬meters or miles. It'''River Crossing (GPT01-WP037)''': Easy river crossings for hikers for whom completion is irrelevant, and instead count their enjoyable and eventful days in a pristine and diverse environment. It’s a trail for thoughtful discoverers who can accept being guests and not dominators.
'''Lake (GPT01-WP038)''': Laguna Hornitos that is dammed up by the Crater Hornitos. You can easily ascent to the summit of the crater (60 m climb).
'''Trail Head (GPT01-WP039)All this makes the GPT a discovery network with a good portion of unpredictability but an impressive authenticity.''': Trail head (or end). Turn right onto the hydropower station road.
'''Water ? (GPT01-WP040)'''<br style="clear: Possible access to water.both" />
'''Gate (GPT01-WP041)'''==The GPT Terrain: Unmanned gate that may be locked. Pedestrians may pass on the right side of the gate if locked.Greater Patagonia==
'''Gate ? (GPT01-WP042)'''[[File: Gate Pat_map.PNG|thumb|400px|Limits of hydropower station that was not used by trekking guide authorPatagonia. Please verify and report to authorImage: [https://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Patagonia Wikipedia]]][[File:Historic_Map_Patagonia.jpg|thumb|400px|Historic map of Patagonia. Image: [https://es. You probably can leave anytime but you need a permit from the hydropower station for enteringwikipedia.org/wiki/Patagonia Wikipedia]]]
'''Bus Stop (GPT01-WP043)''': Unmarked bus stop on If you are considering exploring the Route 115 Greater Patagonian Trail and wish to Talcaenjoy the experience, you must be open to experiencing the unknown diversity of this region.If your imagination of Patagonia is based on TV documentaries and travel magazine than you probably have seen primarily these three heavily hyped tourist magnets:
'''Gate (GPT01-WP044)''': Manned main gate of hydropower station Cipreses. You can leave anytime but you need a permit from * the hydro¬power station for entering. You may ask national park Torres del Paine,* the leaving employees for a ride to Talcaglacier Perito Moreno and * the surrounding of El Chalten with Mount Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre.
'''Bus Stop (GPT01-WP045)''': Unmarked bus stop on the Route 115 to Talca.
===Tracks==='''GPT01-TR001-2''': Take These are three truly amazing spots on the public gravel road from Radal to Parque Ingleseastern edge of the Southern Patagonian Icefield and are internationally known highlights of Patagonia. Only few vehicles use this road but traffic increases But these three frequently pictured attractions do not represent the Patagonian diversity. If your primary interest is visiting the heavily trod, famous places of Patagonia then stick to the national parks in January the south and Februarybus in between.
'''GPT01-TR002-1''': The track starts left at the entrance of Parque Ingles. The national park trail from Radal to El Bolson is well main¬tained and clearly visible with some signposts and marks. After El Bolson the trail occasionally splits and peters out so try to follow the GPS trek when in doubt until reaching the 2560 m high pass. At the pass do not descent the well visible trail that keeps right but follow the GPS trek that descents directly towards the Laguna Mondaca. During the descent the trail is partially only vaguely visible.
'''GPT01-TR003-0''': From The GPT offers much more than this. The Greater Patagonian Trail is rather like a gourmet menu of different courses that allow you to experience the camp side (GPT01different tastes and textures of Patagonia. It connects the semi-WP016) you can cross desert of Precordillera with the vast sediment field to Patagonian Icefields and the barren volcanos with the Laguna Mondacadamp green rain forest.
'''GPT01-TR004-1''': Return 1.4 km on the same trail as you arrived.
'''GPT01-TR005-0''': Cross The Greater Patagonian Trail crosses most of Patagonia and the pumice field and look for a suitable location adjacent regions to cross the smaller valley aheadnorth. There is not For this reason I named the trail clearly visible nor required “Greater Patagonian Trail” when I started publishing in 2014. Keep going over I coined the pumice and sediment field until reaching the first challenging river crossing (GPT01-WP018). The river seams term "Greater Patagonia" to change frequently combine Patagonia in its bed so look yourself for a suitable location to cross traditional limits with the river and do not trust on adjacent regions like "Greater London" includes the waypoint. Continue on the sediment field until the second crossing (GPT01-WP019). Look again for a suitable location to cross the river yourself. After the second river crossing you need to head up the ridge in front of you. The first few meters city of London and the trail on this ridge were lost during a recent landslide. Therefore you need to find your way up to ridge and trail yourselfsurroundings.
'''GPT01-TR006-1''': Follow the generally well visible trail until reaching the hot springs (GPT01-WP020). Continue on this trail until getting to the river crossing (GPT01-WP021). Do not evade the river crossing by continuing on the trail on the same side. This trail will later disappear in a steep pumice slope. Follow the mostly well visible trail on the other side until crossing the river again (GPT01-WP022). The trail now rises to the 2700 m high pass and slowly descents after the pass. The generally well visible trail will lead you eventually to the base camp of the Descabezado Grande. If you want to make a campfire you may collect some firewood in the sediment field starts about 1 km before the camp. There is little firewood at the camp.
'''GPT01-TR007-0-X''': Several trails lead up The limits of Patagonia are somewhat blurry. This makes it impractical to state where exactly the summit of the Descabezado GrandeGPT gets into Patagonia. During If taking the ascent administrative limits of Argentina, than you should generally prefer get in throwing range of Patagonia at the end of section GPT05 where you can look over the more solid rocky partsArgentinian border into the province Neuquén. During But with a different understanding you enter Patagonia on section GPT13 where you ford the descent Río Biobío. Others argue that Patagonia starts with the loose pumice fields allow you Chilean administrative region XIV (Región de los Ríos) what makes section GPT16 the gateway into Patagonia. You can be certain to slide down with less efforthave reached Patagonia on section GPT22 where you arrive at the first Patagonian fjord: the Estuarió de Reloncaví.
'''GPT01-TR008-1''': A good trail heads into the 4 km wide lava river. You need to leave the main trail at the oasis in the middle of the lava flow after crossing the small river (GPT01-WP029). Get up the hillside towards your left. A vaguer trail continues through the remaining lava field to the Laguna Caracol. Pass the Laguna Caracol on the right side and follow the meandering river the feed the lake. After the spring of this river turn left and cross the wide open area. Here the trail peters out until the trail forms again at the ascent towards the pass (GPT01-WP035). Just before the pass leave the main trail and follow the GPS track towards the left.
'''GPT01-TR009-0''': From For me this discussion about the pass (GPT01-WP035) several vague tracks lead downlimits of Patagonia is irrelevant if I can walk and paddle through pristine and varied terrain. You may either look Actually, the less known regions north of Patagonia more attractive for hiking. Here you walk more distance high up in the regular trail or follow mountains with broad views, here you find the GPS track. The GPS track keeps on more attractive trails and cross-country routes and here you meet the left until it descents in a steep pumice slope towards arrieros and the rivernative Pehuenche people. Here Also, the GPS track joints the regular trailclimate is more favourable for hiking. During summer, rain is infrequent, and you can mostly enjoy sunny weather.
'''GPT01-TR010-1''': The trail continues on the left side of the river until reaching the Laguna Hornitos. The trail crosses the river in a wide sediment field. Pass the lake and the crater Hornitos on the right and decent until reaching the hydropower station road in the valley far down.
In contrast, when reaching Patagonia, get ready for frequent and enduring rain. Also, don'''GPT01t expect to walk high up in the mountains in the heartland of Patagonia as there is simply no continuously high mountain range. In Patagonia high mountains are rather like islands that are surrounded by dense temperate rainforest in the west and a semi-TR011desert-2''': Follow like Pampa in the rarely used gravel road towards east. These island-like mountains are separated by wide valleys that were carved by giant glaciers during past glacial periods. The wide valleys are now partly filled with lakes that drain their water in powerful rivers into the hydropower station CipresesPatagonian fjords. Once Therefore, “real Patagonia” is best traveled by packraft because a packraft gets you reach the now unpopulated settlement you have to choose between two optionson these lakes, rivers and fjords.
'''GPT01-TR012-2'''<br style="clear: Option 1: You can take the 10 km dirt road to the regular trail section end where the next part of the Greater Patagonian Trail starts. This gets you to the more distant bus stop (GPT01-WP043).both" />
'''GPT01-TR013-2-X'''==[https: Option 2: Alternatively you can take the shortest way to the Route 115 if you want to return early//en. This gets you to the closest bus stop (GPT01wikipedia.org/wiki/Thru-WP045). Alternatively you can wait for lift at hiking Thru-Hiking] the power station main gate (GPT01-WP044).GPT==
'''GPT01-TR014[[File:GPT09-4-X'''Familia_Carrileo1.jpg|thumb|right|500px|GPT09: Option 2The summer outpost ("puesto") of the Pehuenche family Carrileo near Guallalí. Image: If you took the short way to Jan Dudeck]][[File:GPT09-Familia_Carrileo2.jpg|thumb|right|500px|GPT09: Being guest of the Route 115 and you still want to complete the entire trail than you need to walk 9 km on the paved Route 115family Carrileo. Not recommended!Image: Jan Dudeck]]
===Galerry===<gallery> Imagen:01 Greater Patagonian Trail'''This trail was not created to thru-hike Patagonia, Volcan Descabezado, El Bolsónit's a route network for immersion-hiking.jpg|El BolsónImagen:02 Greater Patagonian Trail, Volcan Descabezado, Leaving El Bolsón.jpg|Leaving El BolsónImagen:03 Greater Patagonian Trail, Volcan Descabezado.jpgImagen:04 Greater Patagonian Trail, Volcan Descabezado, Laguna Las Ánimas.jpg|Laguna Las ÁnimasImagen:05 Greater Patagonian Trail, Volcan Descabezado, Pass 2560 m.PNG|Pass 2560 mImagen:06 Greater Patagonian Trail, Volcan Descabezado, Approaching Laguna Mondaca.PNG|Approaching Laguna MondacaImagen:07 Greater Patagonian Trail, Volcan Descabezado, Laguna Mondaca.jpg|Laguna MondacaImagen:08 Greater Patagonian Trail, Volcan Descabezado, that bypasses Laguna Mondaca.PNG|Bypasses Laguna MondacaImagen:09 Greater Patagonian Trail, Volcan Descabezado.jpgImagen:10 Greater Patagonian Trail, Volcan Descabezado.jpgImagen:11 Greater Patagonian Trail, Volcan Descabezado, Termas de Azufre.jpg|Termas de AzufreImagen:12 Greater Patagonian Trail, Volcan Descabezado.jpgImagen:13 Greater Patagonian Trail, Volcan Descabezado.jpgImagen:16 Greater Patagonian Trail, Volcan Descabezado.jpgImagen:17 Greater Patagonian Trail, Volcan Descabezado.jpgImagen:18 Greater Patagonian Trail, Volcan Descabezado.PNGImagen:19 Greater Patagonian Trail, Volcan Descabezado.PNGImagen:20 Greater Patagonian Trail, Volcan Descabezado.PNGImagen:21 Greater Patagonian Trail, Volcan Descabezado.jpgImagen:23 Greater Patagonian Trail, Volcan Descabezado.PNGImagen:24 Greater Patagonian Trail, Volcan Descabezado.jpgImagen:25 Greater Patagonian Trail, Volcan Descabezado.jpgImagen:26 Greater Patagonian Trail, Volcan Descabezado, Leaving the Base Camp Descabezado Grande.jpg|Leaving the Base Camp Descabezado GrandeImagen:27 Greater Patagonian Trail, Volcan Descabezado, Hot springs at Base Camp Descabezado Grande.jpg|Hot springs at Base Camp Descabezado GrandeImagen:28 Greater Patagonian Trail, Volcan Descabezado.jpgImagen:29 Greater Patagonian Trail, Volcan Descabezado.jpgImagen:31 Greater Patagonian Trail, Volcan Descabezado.jpgImagen:32 Greater Patagonian Trail, Volcan Descabezado.PNGImagen:33 Greater Patagonian Trail, Volcan Descabezado.jpgImagen:34 Greater Patagonian Trail, Volcan Descabezado.PNGImagen:35 Greater Patagonian Trail, Volcan Descabezado.PNGImagen:37 Greater Patagonian Trail, Volcan Descabezado.jpgImagen:38 Greater Patagonian Trail, Volcan Descabezado.PNGImagen:39 Greater Patagonian Trail, Volcan Descabezado.jpgImagen:40 Greater Patagonian Trail, Volcan Descabezado.PNGImagen:41 Greater Patagonian Trail, Volcan Descabezado.PNGImagen:43 Greater Patagonian Trail, Volcan Descabezado, Camp near Laguna Los Hornitos.jpg|Camp near Laguna Los HornitosImagen:44 Greater Patagonian Trail, Volcan Descabezado, Laguna Los Hornitos.PNG|Laguna Los HornitosImagen:45 Greater Patagonian Trail, Volcan Descabezado, Laguna Los Hornitos.PNG|Laguna Los HornitosImagen:46 Greater Patagonian Trail, Volcan Descabezado.jpgImagen:47 Greater Patagonian Trail, Volcan Descabezado.jpgImagen:48 Greater Patagonian Trail, Volcan DescabezadoThe GPT does not get you through Patagonia but gets you deep into Patagonia.jpg</gallery>'''
==Section 2: Laguna Dial==
==Section 2-3: Alternative Long Distance Challange via Las Truchas==
==Section 3: Volcán Chillan==
==Section 4: Volcán Antuco==
==Section 5: Laguna El Barco==
==Section 6: Guallali==
==Section 7: Laguna Marinanqui==
==Section 8: Icalma and Volcán Sollpulli==
==Section 9: Curarrehue==
==Section 10: Volcán Quetrupillan==
==Section 10-12: Alternative via Liquiñe==
==Section 11: Neltume==
==Section 12: Lago Pirihueico==
==Section 13: Volcán Puyehue==
==Section 14: Volcán Antillanca==
==Section 15: Lago Todos Los Santos==
==Section 15: Cochamo==
{{GaleriaInicio}}With the 2021 extension the GPT spans about 5000 km in often difficult and slow terrain. This makes the GPT too long to be safely thru-hiked in one season . An experienced thru-hiker may disagree as 5000 km is just 15% longer than the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) but the varied and unpredictable terrain makes this comparison inadequate.   Therefore, I do not recommend attempting a thru-hike of the GPT. This focus would require rushing and taking less attractive short cuts, in example deviating from GPT to walk on main roads instead of following the trails. It inhibits slowing down to fully appreciate the land and share time with the people along the route. And more importantly, someone who tries to thru-hike the GPT in one season is forced to hike some sections off season. This results in unreasonable risks by attempting to cross torrential rivers and climbing to high elevations when fierce blizzards can kill. And remember, when walking these trails, you are just a guest on the land of others. Just the idea of racing through strangers’ backyards is regarded a rude in these remote regions.  '''From a thru-hiking perspective the GPT is less than a long-distance trail.''' There is no clearly defined and well-marked single trail to blaze along, there is no thru-hiking community to trail talk and there are no “trail angels” providing “trail magic”. On the GPT hikers have no domiciliary rights; they are just unexpected guests. Also, the packrafting options do not benefit thru-hiking as they do not make a traverse faster.  And what might be the biggest disappointment for some thru-hikers on the GPT: There is no trail community and thru-hikers do not receive any special admiration because nobody along the trail distinguishes between thru-hikers, section-hikers, day-hikers, or tourists in general.  '''For respectful explorers the GPT is much more than a long-distance trail.''' It’s a wide network of routes with many hiking options and packrafting in a diverse landscape. A unique blend of people lives along the trails making the hike more of a cultural experience. If approached with respect and interest, then these welcoming people will share much more than just the right-of-way regardless where you are coming from and where you are walking to. On this trail your willingness and capability to immerse yourself in this culture will be more relevant than the weight of your backpack.  If you find Triple Crown Thru-Hikers more credible to speak about thru-hiking the GPT than read in the Hikers' Manual how Lauren Reed (Neon) and Christine Thürmer (German Tourist) experienced the GPT in comparison with the renowned US long distance trails. Lauren was the first hiker to walk the entire length of the GPT in two seasons together with Bethany Hughes (Fidgit).  Someone who wants to explore the entire length of GPT should split this adventure into various seasons. This also facilitates hiking lightly where a packraft would just be a burden and to packraft were the extra weight really pays off. Having more than one season also gives the extra time to take some of the more demanding but rewarding options.  There is one more reason why a thru-hike of the GPT in the literal sense is not viable. Thru-hiking means walking a complete long-distance trail with connecting footsteps from start to finish typically in one season. This is only possible on a well-defined trail with a set start and finish point. This simply does not apply to the GPT.  Attempting to thru-hike the GPT is like trying to memorise every word of a book that is still in the making with the first drafts informally shared for peer reviews. It’s pretty pointless and assigns this evolving route network far too much authority. But this unfinished nature of the GPT makes it possible to investigate new routes and become co-authors of the GPT. This is a unique difference to established long-distance trails. You are not limited to just follow a given trail, but you can contribute to the GPT by adding your part to this unfinished story.  Michael Deckebach summarized this conclusion after his 5-months adventure on the GPT with the following words: "The Greater Patagonian Trail is awesome, but (...) not designed for “purists” who get satisfaction from completing every inch of trail or touching every white blaze. Can it be done? Probably, but why try and fit a square peg into a round hole?”. <br style="clear:both" /> ==Packrafting the GPT== [[File:GPT_Fjord_Packrafting.jpg|thumb|500px|GPT28: Reaching the sea after paddling down the Río Palena. Image: Jan Dudeck]] When I started planning my first long hike through Patagonia in 2013 I could not find a continuous hiking route south of Coñaripe (GPT16) because dense forest hides most of the trails on satellite images. But I could see calm rivers and lakes that bridged the gaps and I wondered if there existed a light enough boat to be carried in a backpack to traverse these waters. I googled and found the packraft. So, the initial cause for incorporating packrafting options were insufficient information about the existing trails and not my fascination for amphibious travel. It was not until after our first hike that I could add additional hiking routes that now render a packraft expendable but not less beneficial.  In retrospect I’m so glad that I lacked the information about the hidden routes. Otherwise I would probably not have discovered the packraft as the ideal hiking partner for Patagonia. A packraft does not only carry your backpack, it carries you! What matters in this “partnership” is a good balance. You don’t want to carry your packraft most of the time but benefit from it as much as possible. And this is the case on sections GPT17 to GPT39. Here the packraft carries you on more than 50% of the distance and this makes it a brilliant deal. Further north (on sections GPT01 to GPT16) a packraft is more burden than benefit and I would only recommend packrafting if you specifically plan to explore a certain lake and the surrounding area.  When packrafting on lakes and rivers we normally do not exceed hiking speed so the packraft does not make us faster. In contrast, all the packing and unpacking and the extra weight slows us down. But speed is not our objective. What we seek is diversity and a packraft opens up some of the most epic routes in Patagonia.  ==Questions and Feedbacks== If you read this article to this point then you should definitely download the [http://bit.ly/GPTguide Hikers’ Manual from Dropbox] now. Should you have questions that are not answered in the Hikers’ Manual than you may write the author an email. Also feedbacks are welcome. Email of author: gpt.jan.dudeck@gmail.com ==Gallery==<gallery>Lago Bergues y al fondo se ve el Glaciar Lucia.JPG|Lago Bergues y al fondo se ve el Glaciar Lucía, por Meylin UbillaGlaciar_Lucia.JPG|Glaciar Lucía desde el Lago Bergues, por Meylin Ubilla</gallery>{{GaleriaFinTrekkings Chile}}[[category:Greater Patagonian Trail]][[category:Parche Greater Patagonian Trail]]
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