Reserva Nacional Radal Siete Tazas Mining Circuit
Copper mines meet seven granite waterfalls
The mining roads threading through Radal Siete Tazas cut between abandoned copper workings and the famous seven-tiered waterfalls that give this reserve its name. Your route starts at the CONAF station near Molina, climbing through dense native forest before breaking into open mining country where old ore trucks carved permanent ruts into granite bedrock. The technical challenge comes at Quebrada del Indio crossing — a rock-strewn ford that’s claimed more oil pans than park rangers care to count.
This is solid intermediate 4×4 territory demanding good clearance and skid plates. Best tackled April through October when river levels drop but roads stay passable. No permits required beyond park entry fees, but fuel up in Molina — nearest gas is 80km away. You’ll earn some of Chile’s most dramatic waterfall camping, plus solitude that’s rare this close to Santiago.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Technical 4x4 |
| Surface | Dirt, Rock |
| Features | Camping, Historic, Scenic, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 28 mi / 45.1 km |
| Duration | 1-2 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 4600 ft |
| Best season | April-October |
| Minimum vehicle | Stock 4WD with skid plates |
| Nearest town | Molina, Maule |
| Land manager | CONAF |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Hilux or 4Runner handle this trail, or do I need a lift?
A stock 4WD with skid plates is the minimum — no lift required, but skid plates are non-negotiable given the rocky sections near the mine remnants. Low-range will get used on the steeper pitches, so don't attempt this in a part-time 4WD you're not comfortable dropping into low.
When is the trail actually passable — what months should I avoid?
Best window is April through October, which is the drier austral autumn through early spring. Summer (December–February) brings rainfall to the Maule foothills that can swell the water crossings and turn the dirt sections into a mess. Check conditions locally in Molina before heading in.
Do I need a permit to drive through Reserva Nacional Radal Siete Tazas, and is there an entrance fee?
CONAF manages the reserve and charges an entrance fee — rates vary for Chilean residents vs. foreign visitors. Pay at the CONAF gate before entering; there's no online pre-purchase option for vehicle access as of last check, so have Chilean pesos on hand.
What's the hardest section of the trail and what makes it technical?
The steepest rock sections near the upper mine circuit are where most rigs earn their damage — loose rock shelves, off-camber lines, and no easy bailout if you pick the wrong approach. The water crossings aren't typically deep, but the rocky exits can hang up a vehicle with low clearance or no skids.
There's zero cell service — where's the last place to fuel up and top off water before the trailhead?
Molina is your last reliable stop for fuel, food, and water before heading into the reserve — don't assume anything is available past town. Carry enough water for the full 1–2 day run since the river crossings on trail aren't safe drinking sources without treatment.
Trail track
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