Parque Nacional Nahuel Huapi Cerro Catedral Mining Circuit
Patagonian mining ghost roads above Bariloche
The old mining roads around Cerro Catedral date back to early 20th-century copper and iron extraction, when pack trains hauled ore down to Bariloche. Today these steep, technical tracks offer some of Argentina’s most scenic 4WD challenges through pristine Patagonian lake country. The route climbs from Lago Nahuel Huapi through dense lenga forests to abandoned mining camps at Refugio Frey, with the notorious Arroyo Goye crossing that can trap vehicles for days during snowmelt.
This requires serious 4WD capability and mountain driving experience — the combination of loose rock, steep grades, and unpredictable weather makes for demanding conditions. Stock vehicles will struggle on the steeper technical sections. Best tackled December to April when snow clears, though stream crossings remain challenging. Pack chains, recovery gear, and camping equipment as weather changes fast in these mountains. The payoff is access to some of Argentina’s most spectacular alpine scenery and the satisfaction of completing routes that challenge even experienced Patagonian drivers.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Difficult |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Technical 4x4 |
| Surface | Rock |
| Features | Camping, High Altitude, Historic, Scenic, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 42 mi / 67.6 km |
| Duration | 2 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 6890 ft |
| Best season | December-April |
| Minimum vehicle | 4WD with low range and underbody protection |
| Nearest town | San Carlos de Bariloche, Río Negro |
| Land manager | Administración de Parques Nacionales |
| Permit required | Yes |
| Cell service | Spotty |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Official sources | argentina.gob.ar |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
| Copy both for Google Maps directionsClick to copy the directions URL · or open it directly in a new tab | |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Hilux or lifted 4Runner handle this trail, or do I need serious skid plates?
Low-range 4WD and underbody protection are non-negotiable here — exposed rock shelves and loose talus will tear up an unprotected undercarriage. A stock Hilux with factory skids can get through, but a lifted rig with aftermarket rock sliders and a quality bash plate is the smarter call on a 42-mile circuit at nearly 7,000 feet. Leave the crossover SUVs at home.
When is this trail actually driveable, and what happens if I show up in June?
December through April is the window — Patagonian summer into early fall. Outside that range, snow and ice at altitude close the upper sections and make the river crossings genuinely dangerous. June puts you in austral winter; expect the trail to be impassable and Parques Nacionales staff will turn you around.
Do I need a permit to drive this circuit inside Nahuel Huapi, and where do I get one?
Yes, a permit is required through the Administración de Parques Nacionales. Get it sorted at the APN office in Bariloche before you leave town — online booking is possible via argentina.gob.ar/parquesnacionales/nahuelhuapi but confirm in person since requirements for vehicle access in technical zones can change seasonally.
What's the hardest section on this circuit and what actually makes it gnarly?
The upper rocky switchbacks approaching the old mining zone near Cerro Catedral are the crux — loose rock on off-camber shelf roads with no guardrails and serious exposure on the downhill side. Combined with the river crossings below, which run fast and cold with rocky bottoms, the first day is where most rigs take damage. Don't rush the crossings; walk them first.
How far is the nearest gas from the trailhead, and should I carry extra fuel for the full 2-day loop?
San Carlos de Bariloche has full services and is your last reliable fuel stop before the circuit — top off there without question. At 67.6 km of technical terrain with significant elevation change, fuel consumption runs high; carry a minimum 20-liter jerry can as backup since there's zero resupply once you're in the park.
Trail track
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