Edge of the Andes: Exploring Mascardi Lake and the Three-Lake Circuit
A quiet Patagonian lake that opens onto glacier-carved peaks and family-friendly river adventures
At first light the lake looks like glass—so still the mountains seem to hang below the horizon rather than above it. A ribbon of mist rises from the tree line and the piñon and coihue forest breathe out cold, resinous scent. On the western shore, a narrow gravel spit points into the water and the only movement is the soft lap of wavelets that the wind dares to push against the rocks. This is Lago Mascardi: a calm, clear body of water threaded into the spine of Nahuel Huapi National Park and a hinge between Bariloche’s easy roadside lakes and the raw, glacier-carved country of Cerro Tronador.
Trail Wisdom
Start at dawn
Morning delivers the best light for the lake’s glassy surface and calmer winds for photography and shore strolls.
Layer for changeable weather
Bring a breathable waterproof shell and warm midlayer—temperatures and wind can swing quickly, even in summer.
Respect the shoreline
Stick to marked paths and avoid trampling lakeside vegetation; it helps prevent erosion and preserves shore habitats.
Carry cash and snacks
Services around Mascardi are limited—pack food, water, and small Argentine pesos for remote kiosks or entry fees.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •The watershed viewpoint on the Three Lakes Circuit—small but rich in geography and history
- •Short forest walks to the mouth of Mascardi and the quiet western bays away from main parking areas
Wildlife
Andean condor, South Andean deer (huemul) and foxes
Conservation Note
Visitors should follow park rules: stay on trails, pack out waste, and avoid motorized disturbance of shoreline habitats to protect fragile alpine and aquatic ecosystems.
Mascardi sits within Nahuel Huapi National Park; local place names reflect Mapuche presence and the watershed played a role in Patagonian mapping and settlement.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: wildflowers, birdwatching, fewer crowds
Challenges: variable weather, muddy trails
Spring (Sept–Nov) brings meltwater and wildflowers; expect cool mornings and variable trail conditions as snow recedes.
summer
Best for: full access to Pampa Linda, swimming and rafting, long daylight
Challenges: afternoon winds, more visitors
Summer (Dec–Feb) is the most accessible season for Tronador trips and water activities, but start early to avoid wind and crowds.
fall
Best for: autumn color, crisp hiking days, good light for photos
Challenges: shorter days, possible early snow at elevation
Fall (Mar–May) offers vivid lenga and coihue color, cooler nights, and excellent visibility for mountain vistas.
winter
Best for: snow scenery, quiet trails, photography of frozen lakes
Challenges: road closures, need for chains or 4x4
Winter (Jun–Aug) transforms the area into snow country—roads to higher points may require chains and some trails will be closed.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Waterproof breathable jacketEssential
Protects from sudden rain, wind, and the chill coming off the mountains.
Sturdy hiking shoesEssential
Grip for wet roots, scree and uneven forest trails around the lake.
Water bottle or hydration systemEssential
Bring 1.5–2 liters per person; refill options are limited once you leave Bariloche.
Polarizing filter or sunglasses
Reduces glare on water and deepens blue skies for photography.
Common Questions
How do I get to Mascardi Lake from Bariloche?
Drive south on Avenida Bustillo and onto National Route 40; the Three Lakes Circuit and access roads to Pampa Linda are signposted—allow 30–90 minutes depending on your exact stop.
Can you swim in Mascardi Lake?
Yes—summer water can be inviting but is cold; use caution, enter gradually, and avoid solo swims due to sudden cold-water effects.
Do I need a guide for Cerro Tronador?
Guides aren’t mandatory for the viewpoints at Pampa Linda, but a guided day trip simplifies logistics, provides local knowledge, and improves safety in variable conditions.
Are there facilities near the lake?
Basic facilities exist in small villages and at designated viewpoints; expect limited services around shorelines—pack essentials.
Is Mascardi Lake suitable for kids?
Yes—the Three Lakes Circuit offers family-friendly walks and beaches; supervise children at shorelines and near roads.
Can I combine rafting on the Manso with a visit to Mascardi?
Yes—half-day rafting on the Lower Manso is often paired with lake excursions; local operators can arrange combined itineraries.
What to Pack
waterproof jacket, sturdy hiking shoes, water (1.5–2L), layered midlayer—protects from wind, grip on trails, hydration, and warmth for variable mountain weather
Did You Know
Mascardi Lake is inside Nahuel Huapi National Park and its outflow contributes to the Manso River system that crosses the Andes toward Chile.
Quick Travel Tips
1) Start early to beat winds and crowds; 2) Carry cash for remote kiosks; 3) Check road conditions to Pampa Linda ahead of time; 4) Bring insect repellent in summer.
Local Flavor
Pair your visit with a stop in El Bolsón for artisan jams, local craft beers and an open-air market tradition that dates to the 1960s counterculture wave—an approachable taste of Patagonian local life.
Logistics Snapshot
Access: 30–120 min drive from Bariloche; Difficulty: easy to moderate; Permits: park rules apply; Services: limited beyond Bariloche—carry supplies.
Sustainability Note
Stick to established trails, avoid bringing single-use plastics, and hire local guides or operators who contribute to park conservation and community economies.