What Is the W Trek?
The W Trek in Chile's Torres del Paine National Park is one of South America's most celebrated multi-day hikes. Named for the rough "W" shape it traces across the landscape, the route winds through some of Patagonia's most dramatic scenery — granite towers, turquoise glacial lakes, hanging glaciers, and windswept valleys.
Most hikers complete the W in 4–5 days, covering approximately 80 km (50 miles) with a total elevation gain of around 2,800 m. It is considered a moderate to challenging trail — not technically difficult, but demanding in terms of daily distance and exposure to Patagonian weather.
Trail Overview
| Stat | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Distance | ~80 km (50 miles) |
| Duration | 4–5 days |
| Elevation Gain | ~2,800 m cumulative |
| Difficulty | Moderate–Challenging |
| Best Season | October–April |
| Start Point | Pudeto Ferry Terminal or Laguna Amarga |
The Three Arms of the W
1. Valle del Francés (French Valley)
The central arm of the W takes you into a hanging valley flanked by massive granite walls and icefalls. The hike up to the Mirador Británico viewpoint rewards you with panoramic views of glaciers calving and condors circling overhead. Expect a full day out and back from Campamento Italiano.
2. Mirador Las Torres (The Towers Lookout)
This is the iconic finale most hikers save for last. A steep, boulder-scramble section leads to a glacial lake at the foot of the three soaring granite towers — the park's defining image. Start at first light to beat the crowds and catch the towers lit in morning alpenglow.
3. Glaciar Grey
The western arm traces the shore of Lake Grey to a viewpoint of the enormous Grey Glacier. Blue-tinged icebergs float in the lake below. This section is flatter and often windier than the rest of the W, offering a different but equally spectacular landscape.
Where to Sleep: Camping vs. Refugios
Accommodation must be booked well in advance — often 6–12 months ahead for peak season. You have two main options:
- Camping: Basic designated campsites with cooking shelters and toilets. More affordable; bring or rent a tent.
- Refugios (mountain huts): Dormitory-style bunk beds with meals included. More comfortable, significantly more expensive, and the fastest to sell out.
Key stops include Refugio Las Torres, Campamento Italiano, Refugio Grey, and Refugio Paine Grande.
Best Season to Hike
The park is open year-round, but the W Trek is best hiked between October and April (Southern Hemisphere spring through autumn). Peak season is December–February, when days are longest but trails are most crowded. November and March offer a good balance of good weather and fewer hikers.
Winter hiking (May–September) is possible for experienced trekkers but expect fierce storms, short daylight hours, and limited facilities.
Essential Packing Tips
- A waterproof jacket and pants are non-negotiable — Patagonian weather changes in minutes.
- Bring trekking poles for the steep boulder sections near Las Torres.
- Pack layers including a mid-layer fleece — temperatures drop sharply in the evenings.
- Gaiters help when trails turn muddy after rain.
- Water on the trail is generally safe to drink directly from streams, but a filter is good insurance.
Getting There
Fly into Punta Arenas or Puerto Natales, then take a bus or shuttle (~2.5 hours) to the park entrance. Puerto Natales is the main gateway town and a great place to stock up on supplies, hire gear, and rest before the trek.