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A classic day ascent from Mendoza into the Cordón del Plata: steady climbs, loose alpine scree, and summit views over Lake Potrerillos. This guided outing is a full‑day, moderate alpine hike ideal for fit walkers ready for high‑country terrain.
A classic day ascent from Mendoza into the Cordón del Plata: steady climbs, loose alpine scree, and summit views over Lake Potrerillos. This guided outing is a full‑day, moderate alpine hike ideal for fit walkers ready for high‑country terrain.
The trail opens with the Andes breathing cold air into the valley as you leave the ski-club parking and step into the Quebrada del Estudiante. Low scrub and stands of cacti give way to steep switchbacks; the path climbs steadily, each bend revealing a broader sweep of Potrerillos Lake glinting like a blue shard below. The summit of Arenales stands as a clear objective: a rocky ridge that demands steady legs and attention to footing.
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Operated by goldengruss turismo · Mendoza, Mendoza Province
The trail opens with the Andes breathing cold air into the valley as you leave the ski-club parking and step into the Quebrada del Estudiante. Low scrub and stands of cacti give way to steep switchbacks; the path climbs steadily, each bend revealing a broader sweep of Potrerillos Lake glinting like a blue shard below. The summit of Arenales stands as a clear objective: a rocky ridge that demands steady legs and attention to footing.
Geology here is raw — uplifted granites and metamorphic bands folded by the same tectonics that built the high Andes. The Cordón del Plata range has long marked the edge of Mendoza’s high country; indigenous Huarpes traveled these valleys, and 20th‑century mountaineers established many of the routes you’ll follow today. Vallecitos and nearby ski infrastructure are reminders of seasonal winter recreation in an otherwise summer hiking landscape.
Expect a full‑day outing (roughly 8 hours) with 800–1,000 m elevation gain depending on exact start point, mixed dirt tracks and loose scree near the summit, and strong sun exposure. Guides often provide transfers, lunch, and basic safety equipment — but be prepared: mountain weather can flip from calm to wind‑driven cold in an hour. Hydrate early, pace the ascent, and use trekking poles on the descent to reduce knee strain.
Practical tips: start early for stable weather and clearer views of Cerro Plata and Rincón; carry layered clothing, sunscreen, and at least 2–3 liters of water; allow for slower walking at altitude. The route rewards attention with sweeping vistas and a tangible sense of climbing into the heart of the Andes.
moderate.
7–9 hours.
Moderate fitness: regular hiking or cardio training and comfort with sustained climbs at altitude.
Guided trips are typically full‑day outings of 7–9 hours with roughly 800–1,000 m elevation gain; expect steady walking and some scrambling on loose rock near the top.
Yes — elevations in the Cordón del Plata can affect breathing and pace; take it steady, stay hydrated, and inform guides of any symptoms of altitude sickness.
Many operators include roundtrip transfers from Mendoza and a boxed lunch; confirm dietary options (they often offer vegetarian and gluten‑free choices) when booking.
No technical climbing skills are required for the standard Arenales day hike, but moderate fitness and experience with long uphill hikes are recommended.
The Cordón del Plata has long been a corridor between Mendoza valley communities and high Andean grazing areas; 20th‑century recreational development added ski and mountaineering infrastructure such as the Vallecitos area.
This route lies within the Cordón del Plata Protected Natural Area; stick to trails, pack out waste, and follow local guidelines to protect fragile high‑altitude vegetation and water sources.
goldengruss turismo operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.
The trail opens with the Andes breathing cold air into the valley as you leave the ski-club parking and step into the Quebrada del Estudiante. Low scrub and stands of cacti give way to steep switchbacks; the path climbs steadily, each bend revealing a broader sweep of Potrerillos Lake glinting like a blue shard below. The summit of Arenales stands as a clear objective: a rocky ridge that demands steady legs and attention to footing.
The trail opens with the Andes breathing cold air into the valley as you leave the ski-club parking and step into the Quebrada del Estudiante. Low scrub and stands of cacti give way to steep switchbacks; the path climbs steadily, each bend revealing a broader sweep of Potrerillos Lake glinting like a blue shard below. The summit of Arenales stands as a clear objective: a rocky ridge that demands steady legs and attention to footing.
Geology here is raw — uplifted granites and metamorphic bands folded by the same tectonics that built the high Andes. The Cordón del Plata range has long marked the edge of Mendoza’s high country; indigenous Huarpes traveled these valleys, and 20th‑century mountaineers established many of the routes you’ll follow today. Vallecitos and nearby ski infrastructure are reminders of seasonal winter recreation in an otherwise summer hiking landscape.
Expect a full‑day outing (roughly 8 hours) with 800–1,000 m elevation gain depending on exact start point, mixed dirt tracks and loose scree near the summit, and strong sun exposure. Guides often provide transfers, lunch, and basic safety equipment — but be prepared: mountain weather can flip from calm to wind‑driven cold in an hour. Hydrate early, pace the ascent, and use trekking poles on the descent to reduce knee strain.
Practical tips: start early for stable weather and clearer views of Cerro Plata and Rincón; carry layered clothing, sunscreen, and at least 2–3 liters of water; allow for slower walking at altitude. The route rewards attention with sweeping vistas and a tangible sense of climbing into the heart of the Andes.