Potrerillos: Where the Andes Unwind into Wind, Water, and Trail
Hike high ridgelines, ride fast water, and sail a blue Andean lake—one hour from Mendoza.
Morning comes quick and clean in Potrerillos. The lake wears a sheet of glass, then puckers as the wind rises from the Cordón del Plata, tugging at the sails, tapping the shoreline with ripples. To the west, ridgelines stack like a deck of cards, their shadows sliding downslope as sun warms the gullies. The Mendoza River, impatient and mineral-green, drums through its channel below Route 7, pushing forward, daring you to follow.
Trail Wisdom
Start early for calm water and clear views
Morning brings the lake’s flattest surface and the least wind—perfect for photos and an unhurried warm-up hike or sail.
Pack for four seasons in one day
The valley swings from hot sun to sharp wind; carry a light puffy, wind shell, hat, and sunscreen even in midsummer.
Footwork matters on scree
Vallecitos and Cerro Bayo routes include loose, rocky sections—wear grippy-soled hiking shoes and use poles if you’re not confident on downhill.
Know your river window
Summer flows push the Mendoza River to Class III–IV; shoulder seasons are milder. Choose rafting slots that match your comfort level and go with certified guides.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •El Salto waterfall trail above the lakeside village—short, steep, and quiet at dawn
- •Refugio San Bernardo in Vallecitos for hot chocolate and weather updates before heading higher
Wildlife
Andean condor, Culpeo fox
Conservation Note
Stay on established tracks to protect fragile Andean grasses and limit erosion; pack out all trash, and never disturb nesting condors along cliff bands.
Potrerillos Dam on the Mendoza River began operating in 2003, creating the reservoir that stabilizes water for the wine-growing oasis below.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Moderate hiking with wildflowers, Mellow rafting, Cool, clear mornings
Challenges: Unpredictable winds, Cold lake temperatures
Spring brings crisp days, blossoming hillsides, and moderate river flows—great for hikers and first-time rafters.
summer
Best for: Whitewater rafting, Sailing and wind sports, High-elevation trekking
Challenges: Strong afternoon winds, High UV exposure, Crowds on weekends
Long, hot days and powerful river flows make summer prime for rafting and wind-driven lake sessions; start early to beat heat and traffic.
fall
Best for: Stable weather for big hikes, Golden light for photography, Relaxed sailing
Challenges: Cool nights, Variable river levels
Clear air and steady conditions provide ideal trekking windows and calmer water—arguably the best all-around season.
winter
Best for: Quiet trails, Snow-dusted ridge views
Challenges: Cold temperatures, Icy sections on higher trails, Limited water activities
Expect solitude, firm snow on shaded slopes, and short daylight. Water activities pause; hiking is best on sunny, lower routes.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Windproof shellEssential
The lake and ridges funnel gusts; a light shell keeps windchill at bay without adding bulk.
Approach shoes or sturdy trail runnersEssential
Grippy soles help on the Cordón del Plata’s rocky, loose sections and make descents safer.
Sun protection kitEssential
High UV at altitude demands sunglasses, SPF 50+ sunscreen, and a brimmed hat.
Compact towel and swimwear
Handy for a post-hike soak at Cacheuta hot springs or a quick dry-off after spray-heavy rafting.
Common Questions
How far is Potrerillos from Mendoza city?
About 60–70 km via Route 7, typically a 50–70 minute drive depending on traffic and wind conditions.
Can beginners go rafting on the Mendoza River?
Yes. In summer the river reaches Class III–IV, still suitable for fit first-timers with certified guides; shoulder seasons offer gentler Class II–III runs.
Is swimming allowed in Lake Potrerillos?
Swimming is permitted in designated areas, but the water is cold year-round and winds can create sudden chop—check local advisories before entering.
Do I need a permit to hike in Vallecitos?
No permit is required for day hikes on common Vallecitos trails, but carrying ID and registering with your guide or refugio is recommended.
What’s the altitude at Potrerillos and Vallecitos?
The lake sits around 1,380 m (4,527 ft); trailheads in Vallecitos range from roughly 2,400–2,900 m (7,874–9,514 ft), where you may feel mild altitude effects.
Are hot springs nearby?
Yes. Cacheuta Hot Springs lie down-canyon from Potrerillos, with both public pools and a spa complex ideal after a full hiking day.
What to Pack
Wind shell for sudden gusts; 2 liters of water per person due to dry, high-altitude air; grippy trail shoes for loose Andean scree; sunscreen and brimmed hat to manage intense UV at elevation.
Did You Know
Lake Potrerillos is an artificial reservoir formed by the Potrerillos Dam, which began operating in 2003; the lake stretches roughly 12–13 km and sits at about 1,380 meters above sea level.
Quick Travel Tips
Avoid weekend midday traffic by leaving Mendoza before 8 a.m.; bring cash for small roadside puestos; confirm wind forecasts if planning to sail or SUP; combine a morning trek with an afternoon soak at Cacheuta for a balanced day.
Local Flavor
Pair a lake day with a late asado—look for local parrillas serving grilled provoleta and beef—then sip Mendoza Malbec back in the city. In the hills, refugios trade weather notes, mate, and tortas fritas when clouds gather.
Logistics Snapshot
Drive RN-7 west from Mendoza (50–70 minutes). Fuel up in Luján de Cuyo. No permits for lake access; guided activities meet near the dam or in Vallecitos. Cell coverage is spotty; download maps offline. Big diurnal swings—dress in layers.
Sustainability Note
The reservoir balances irrigation for Mendoza’s vineyards; help keep waters clean by using biodegradable sunscreen and carrying out all waste. Stick to marked routes to reduce erosion on arid slopes.