Semana Uniónina in La Unión, Los Ríos, threads together a hike where nature asserts itself with steady resolve. This trail runs approximately 12 kilometers round trip, climbing about 650 meters through the vibrant heart of the Valdivian temperate rainforest. The terrain varies from well-trodden dirt paths to steeper rocky sections demanding good footing and alertness. Along the way, the forest leans close, with towering alerce and coigüe trees guiding your ascent, leaves rustling like whispered challenges, daring you onward.

The route’s charm lies in its shifting moods: cool shade gives way to sunlit clearings that reveal panoramic views of the Andes’ foothills and the winding Calle-Calle River below, which seems to push itself boldly through the valley. Mid-hike, a natural spring offers a moment to replenish your water and listen as the forest exhales around you, the river’s currents vying quietly with the wind through the canopy.

Regarding preparation, sturdy hiking boots with solid tread are essential; the varied surface can turn slippery after rain. Start early to avoid the midday heat and bring at least two liters of water. Weather in Los Ríos can shift fast, so layering is smart—lightweight yet warm layers afford flexibility. A compact rain jacket is a practical must given the region's tendency for sudden showers.

Semana Uniónina caters to a wide range of hikers: casual outdoor enthusiasts will find steady inclines that build endurance, while seasoned adventurers can challenge themselves on steeper, less obvious path sections. Pace yourself and take breaks—this is a dialogue with the environment, not a contest.

As you near the summit, the forest opens, revealing the Vecinal neighborhood below and, on clear days, the distant Silencio volcano standing quiet but watchful. The trail’s end rewards with a space that invites reflection—here, nature is fiercely itself, offering a view earned through effort and respect.

In practical terms, the trail is well-marked but expect limited signage past the halfway point. A map or trail app with GPS is advisable. Familiarize yourself with local flora and fauna to enrich your experience and avoid disturbing the delicate ecosystem. Semana Uniónina promises more than a hike—it offers an encounter with a living landscape that invites both admiration and prudence.