Can I reach the summit of Osorno Volcano on this trail?

No. The Paso Desolación trail traverses the flank of the volcano. Reaching the actual summit requires technical mountaineering gear (crampons, ice axes, ropes) and a certified guide.

Is there shade on the trail?

Only in the first and last forest sections. The vast majority of the hike across the pass is completely exposed to the sun and wind.

What happens if it rains?

The volcanic ash can become heavy and muddy, and the wind is often severe. The pass is not recommended during heavy storms due to zero visibility.

Can I bike the Paso Desolación?

Yes, it is a very popular, albeit challenging, mountain biking route. Hikers should stay aware of descending cyclists.

Do I need a 4x4 vehicle to reach the trailhead?

No, the road to Petrohué (one end) is paved. Accessing La Picada (the other end) might require driving on gravel, but standard clearance vehicles are usually sufficient in summer.

HikeMetrics

Global Hiking Index

HikeMetrics.com

Paso Desolación (DesolationPass)

DATA_INDEXED_2026

Distance

12KM

Gain

0.8kM

Duration

1d

Strain

LVL 3

AI Insight: Optimal ratio of distance to elevation. Accessible for experienced intermediates.

Set within Chile's spectacular Vicente Perez Rosales National Park, the Paso Desolación (Desolation Pass) trek showcases the incredible, destructive power of the perfectly-conical Osorno volcano. The classic route runs point-to-point between La Picada and Petrohué; many hikers arrange transport at one end. The day hike traverses barren volcanic ash fields and lava flows, offering a stark contrast to the nearby lush, verdant forests. Along the route, hikers are treated to mesmerizing panoramic views stretching across the emerald-green waters of Lake Todos los Santos and the jagged peaks of Mount Tronador in the distance.

Mission Directive / X-Factor

“Walking on Ash. The volcanic landscape gives the strong impression that you are hiking across the surface of Mars or the Moon, deeply contrasting with the vibrant alpine lakes and snowy peaks filling the horizon.”

Hazard Assessment

weather exposurePRIORITY 1

The high pass is immensely exposed. Searing sun and freezing, gale-force Patagonian winds can strike in the same hour.

MITIGATION: Pack heavy windbreakers, thermal layers, and extreme UV protection sunscreen.

shifting terrainPRIORITY 1

Walking across loose volcanic ash is exhausting and slipping is common.

MITIGATION: Wear hiking boots with ankle support to avoid sand filling your shoes. Use trekking poles.

Critical Loadout

Gaiters (highly recommended for deep volcanic ash)

Sturdy hiking boots

Trekking poles

High SPF Sunscreen (No shade on the pass)

2L Water

Target Base Weight

< 10 KGEXCL. CONSUMABLES

Water Logistics

SOURCE AVAILABILITYLIMITED / CARRY

FILTRATION PROTOCOLMANDATORY (<2000M)

HIKING
PATHWAY

lakes-district // hiking

La Picada to the Pass

Gradual long climb departing the forest and entering the desolation zone of black sand and rocky rubble.

Descent

Sliding down the ash fields, looking over Lake Todos los Santos.

Topographical Ref / Area LAKESAUTO-GEN SYNC: -41.116N -72.483E

Mission Log: Stage-by-Stage Technical MetricsREF: PASO-DESOLACION // DAT_TAB_01

Step	Sector / Waypoint	Dist.	Gain (↑m)	Duration	Assessment
1	La Picada to the Pass Gradual long climb departing the forest ...	3 hours	800	3 hours	Standard Segment
2	Descent Sliding down the ash fields, looking ove...	2 hours	---	2 hours	Standard Segment

Technical Specifications

DOC_REF: GOLDEN_HIKING_CL_PASO_DESOLACION

01 / LOG

Refuge Capacity

Hotels in Puerto Varas or Ensenada. Camping near Petrohué.

02 / REG

Regulatory

Permit REQUIRED
Authority CONAF

Must purchase park entry QR codes online before arriving.

03 / CLI

Climatology

OptimalNov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar

Do not attempt in heavy rain or winter conditions unless experienced in mountaineering.

04 / COM

Emergency / Comms

Rescue (EU) 112 ACTIVE
Signal Spotty

SAT-LINK STABLE

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Side-by-side metric analysis. Compare Paso Desolación (Desolation Pass) directly against similar routes ÔÇö distance, elevation gain, HikeMetrics Hazard Score, and more.

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