3-Day W Trek in Torres del Paine: Base Torres, French Valley & Grey Glacier Viewpoints
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
3 days
Fitness Level
Good cardiovascular fitness and experience hiking 6–10 hours with elevation gain; comfortable on uneven terrain
Overview
A focused, guided 3-day loop that delivers Torres del Paine’s headline hikes — Base Torres, French Valley and Grey Glacier viewpoints — with campsite comfort on Lake Pehoé. Ideal for hikers who want full trail days without the weight of a long-distance carry.
3-Day W Trek in Torres del Paine: Base Torres, French Valley & Grey Glacier Viewpoints
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The bus slides away from Puerto Natales before dawn and, as the coastline recedes, Patagonia begins to speak in bigger gestures: wind, granite, and sudden sheets of sky. By mid-morning you’re at the Ascencio trailhead, boots dusted, breath visible in the cool air, following the river that seems to dare you onward. Trees thin. The trail steepens. Then the towers appear — three granite sentries rising above a turquoise lake — and the effort snaps into place.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Layer for wind and rain
Patagonia’s weather changes fast; wear breathable base layers and a waterproof shell to stay comfortable through wind and showers.
Break up the climbs
On steep sections like La Morrena, set a steady pace, take short regular breaks and refuel with small snacks to maintain energy.
Protect electronics from spray
Carry a dry bag for cameras and phones — catamaran crossings and glacier viewpoints mean wind-driven spray and sudden rain.
Reserve park pass in advance
Purchase your Torres del Paine entrance ticket online before arrival to avoid delays at the park gates.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Guanaco
- Andean condor
History
The park’s landscape was sculpted by successive glaciations; human history includes nomadic Kawésqar and Tehuelche communities who traversed these lands for millennia.
Conservation
Visitor numbers are regulated with park passes and established trails; stick to marked routes and follow leave-no-trace rules to protect fragile grasslands and peat bogs.
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Adventure Hotspots in Puerto Natales
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof hardshell jacket
Protects against the frequent high winds and rain that define Patagonian weather.
Sturdy hiking boots (broken-in)
Required for rocky, muddy trails and the steep moraine sections to Base Torres.
Lightweight daypack (20–30L)
Carry layers, snacks, water and camera without hauling overnight equipment.
Insulating midlayer (fleece or down)
Keeps you warm during windy mornings and high-elevation viewpoints.