HikeMetrics
Global Hiking Index
HikeMetrics
Global Hiking Index
HikeMetrics // Comparison Engine
Route A

Sierra Nevada del Cocuy (The Three Peaks)

colombia/Boyacá
VS
Route B

Mount Fitz Roy (Cerro Fitz Roy)

argentina/patagonia

Sierra Nevada del Cocuy (The Three Peaks) vs Mount Fitz Roy (Cerro Fitz Roy): Intensity Score Comparison

Sierra Nevada del Cocuy (The Three Peaks) is unequivocally more demanding overall (+33 points). While Mount Fitz Roy (Cerro Fitz Roy) is a serious endeavor, Sierra Nevada del Cocuy (The Three Peaks) pushes the limits further, particularly regarding sustained physical exertion.

Model-based (not a field report) · Evaluates overall route demand, not danger.

Intensity Difference
+33 Sierra Nevada del Cocuy (The Three Peaks) is harder
Higher Physical Load
Sierra Nevada del Cocuy (The Three Peaks)
Higher Technical Seriousness
Sierra Nevada del Cocuy (The Three Peaks)
Greater Commitment
Sierra Nevada del Cocuy (The Three Peaks)
Overall HikeMetrics Score
Sierra Nevada del Cocuy (The Three Peaks)wins 8 of 10 metrics
8
Route A
2
Route B
colombia/Boyacá

Sierra Nevada del Cocuy (The Three Peaks)

EXTREME // LETHAL
Full Route Report

Route Typology: High-Altitude Glacial Access Treks. El Cocuy is home to Colombia’s most extensive remaining glacier system and is protected within a National Natural Park. Due to environmental sensitivity and agreements with the U'wa indigenous community, the former multi-day circuit is replaced by three strictly regulated day-hikes. These routes climb from the 'Páramo' (high-altitude moorland) through rocky moraines to the permitted edge of the glaciers. The most iconic feature is the 'Púlpito del Diablo,' a massive monolithic rock towering over the Pan de Azúcar ice field. With trailheads starting at 3,900m and peaking near 5,000m, this is a serious high-alpine challenge requiring deep respect for the environment and local regulations.

argentina/patagonia

Mount Fitz Roy (Cerro Fitz Roy)

EXPERT // HAZARD
Full Route Report

The trek to Laguna de los Tres is one of the primary day activities in Los Glaciares National Park, providing a close-perspective view of the granite massif of Mount Fitz Roy (3,405m). The route follows an out-and-back trail through mixed forest and glaciated valleys, passing the Piedras Blancas viewpoint before the final ascent. The journey is defined by a significant transition from the low-lying valley floor to the high-alpine environment of the lagoon, which sits directly below the main peaks.

Head-to-Head Metric Analysis

Intensity ScoreHigher Overall Demand
78 WINNER
45
Physical LoadMore Physically Taxing
72 WINNER
46
Technical SeriousnessMore Technically Demanding
67 WINNER
36
DistanceLonger route
45 km WINNER
21 km
Elevation GainMore vertical
1,340 m WINNER
850 m
Highest PointHigher summit
4,950 m WINNER
1,170 m
DurationShorter commitment
3 days
WINNER1 days
Hazard LevelMore accessible
EXTREME // LETHAL
WINNEREXPERT // HAZARD
Crowd LevelLess crowded
N/A WINNER
5 / 5
RemotenessMore remote
4 / 5 WINNER
3 / 5

HikeMetrics Hazard Scale — Explanation

1
LOW // ACCESS
2
STANDARD // RT
3
MODERATE // CHLG
4
EXPERT // HAZARD
5
EXTREME // LETHAL

The HikeMetrics Hazard Scale is a proprietary 5-point classification system that evaluates hiking routes across five dimensions: physical demand, technical complexity, altitude exposure, weather risk, and rescue accessibility.

Unlike generic star ratings, the Hazard Scale is calibrated against altitude profiles, elevation gain per day, and logistical isolation factors — making it the most precise route classification system available.

Full Scale Documentation
Route A // Hazard Verdict
Sierra Nevada del Cocuy (The Three Peaks)
EXTREME // LETHAL
Severe Altitude Exposure: Trails peak at 4,950m. AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) is a high risk for those arriving directly from Bogotá without staging.
Environmental & Legal Violations: Touching the glacier ice or entering U'wa ancestral territory is strictly forbidden. Violations can result in significant fines and removal from the park by national authorities.
Route B // Hazard Verdict
Mount Fitz Roy (Cerro Fitz Roy)
EXPERT // HAZARD
high wind exposure: Strong winds are common in the Fitz Roy massif, particularly in the afternoon. Gusts can make the final ascent unstable in exposed conditions.
lower limb strain: The final descent is steep and rocky, which can strain knees and ankles on the return journey.

Required Gear Comparison

Sierra Nevada del Cocuy (The Three Peaks)
High-cut technical hiking boots (moraine-ready)Hardshell rain jacket and over-trousersInsulated jacket (down or synthetic)Category 4 sunglasses for glacier reflectionTrekking poles (essential for steep descent stabilization)Minimum 2L water capacitySmall bills (COP) for local logistics
Mount Fitz Roy (Cerro Fitz Roy)
Trekking poles for stability and knee supportDurable hiking boots with high-traction solesModular layering system (temperatures at the lagoon are significantly lower than in town)Technical windbreaker or hardshell layerReliable headlamp for pre-dawn startsHydration capacity of 2L (purification recommended for stream water)

Compare with Other Routes

argentina
Cerro Tronador (Refugio Otto Meiling)
MODERATE // CHLG
argentina
Piuquenes Pass (Andes Crossing)
EXTREME // LETHAL
argentina
Huemul Circuit
EXTREME // LETHAL
argentina
Nahuel Huapi Traverse (4 Refugios)
EXTREME // LETHAL
argentina
Perito Moreno Glacier Trail
EXPERT // HAZARD
austria
Berliner Höhenweg — The Zillertal High-Route
EXTREME // LETHAL