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

Piuquenes Pass (Andes Crossing)

argentina/mendoza
VS
Route B

The South Downs Way

united-kingdom/South East England

Piuquenes Pass (Andes Crossing) vs The South Downs Way: Intensity Score Comparison

Piuquenes Pass (Andes Crossing) is unequivocally more demanding overall (+19 points). While The South Downs Way is a serious endeavor, Piuquenes Pass (Andes Crossing) pushes the limits further, particularly regarding sustained physical exertion.

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

Intensity Difference
+19 Piuquenes Pass (Andes Crossing) is harder
Higher Physical Load
Piuquenes Pass (Andes Crossing)
Higher Technical Seriousness
Piuquenes Pass (Andes Crossing)
Greater Commitment
Piuquenes Pass (Andes Crossing)
Overall HikeMetrics Score
Piuquenes Pass (Andes Crossing)wins 7 of 10 metrics
7
Route A
3
Route B
argentina/mendoza

Piuquenes Pass (Andes Crossing)

EXTREME // LETHAL
Full Route Report

Following the historic path used by the Army of the Andes in 1817, this 6-day trans-Andean expedition traverses the central cordillera from Mendoza, Argentina, to the Cajón del Maipo in Chile. The route crosses two significant high-altitude barriers—Portillo Argentino (4,330m) and Paso Piuquenes (4,030m). Hikers move through a high desert landscape of volcanic rock, vast glacial valleys, and the powerful Tunuyán River. The terrain consists primarily of rocky mountain paths, loose scree on the steeper pass approaches, and high-altitude plateaus where exposure to wind and sun is constant.

united-kingdom/South East England

The South Downs Way

MODERATE // CHLG
Full Route Report

The South Downs Way is a 100-mile (160km) National Trail that follows the rolling chalk ridge of the South Downs National Park, from the historic city of Winchester in Hampshire to the stunning white cliffs of Eastbourne in Sussex. The entire route lies entirely within a National Park, offering sweeping, elevated views over the English Channel to the south and the patchwork fields of the Weald to the north. Characterised by ancient hill forts, idyllic woodland, and wide, springy turf paths, it is one of the most accessible and popular long-distance trails in the UK.

Head-to-Head Metric Analysis

Intensity ScoreHigher Overall Demand
77 WINNER
58
Physical LoadMore Physically Taxing
79 WINNER
72
Technical SeriousnessMore Technically Demanding
55 WINNER
40
DistanceLonger route
110 km
WINNER160 km
Elevation GainMore vertical
3,200 m
WINNER4,150 m
Highest PointHigher summit
4,330 m WINNER
270 m
DurationShorter commitment
6 days WINNER
8 days
Hazard LevelMore accessible
EXTREME // LETHAL
WINNERMODERATE // CHLG
Crowd LevelLess crowded
1 / 5 WINNER
4 / 5
RemotenessMore remote
5 / 5 WINNER
2 / 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
Piuquenes Pass (Andes Crossing)
EXTREME // LETHAL
acclimatization_and_ams: Prolonged exposure above 4,000m poses a risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).
river_crossings: The Tunuyán River involves significant water volume and current strength, particularly in the afternoon.
Route B // Hazard Verdict
The South Downs Way
MODERATE // CHLG
summer heat and exposure: The trail is highly exposed along the chalk ridges with very little shade. Summer heat can be punishing, especially climbing out of the deep river valleys.
chalk slip and mud: Wet chalk is notoriously slick, almost like ice. The steep descents into the river gaps become treacherous after heavy rain.

Required Gear Comparison

Piuquenes Pass (Andes Crossing)
Sturdy mountain boots with high ankle supportThermal system rated for temperatures down to -15°CHigh-performance wind and sun protectionTrekking poles for loose scree descentsPassport and necessary travel documents for border transit
The South Downs Way
Comfortable, well-cushioned trail running shoes (heavy boots are often overkill and cause blisters on the hard chalk)Camelbak or water bladders holding at least 2 litersLightweight windproof jacket (the ridge is very breezey)OS Maps 119, 120, 122, and 123 (or National Trail Guide)Sun protection kit (hat, SPF50, sunglasses)

Compare with Other Routes

argentina
Cerro Tronador (Refugio Otto Meiling)
MODERATE // CHLG
argentina
Huemul Circuit
EXTREME // LETHAL
argentina
Laguna Torre (Cerro Torre)
MODERATE // CHLG
argentina
Nahuel Huapi Traverse (4 Refugios)
EXTREME // LETHAL
austria
Berliner Höhenweg — The Zillertal High-Route
EXTREME // LETHAL
austria
Coburger Hütte — Seebensee & Drachensee
MODERATE // CHLG