Cordillera de los Andes Paso Pino Hachado
Ancient Mapuche pass through volcanic Andes
This remote mountain pass cuts through the heart of the Andes at 1,884 meters, following ancient Mapuche trade routes between Chile and Argentina. The route winds through pristine Araucaria forests and volcanic moonscapes, crossing the Continental Divide where massive Lonquimay Volcano dominates the skyline. Technical sections include loose volcanic rock descents and river crossings that can turn treacherous during snowmelt, with the final approach requiring careful navigation through unmarked boulder fields.
Moderate to difficult terrain demands high-clearance 4WD with good ground clearance and skid plates. Weather changes rapidly at altitude — snow possible year-round above 1,500m. Best tackled April through October when passes stay clear, though early season brings muddy conditions from spring thaw. Fuel up in Lonquimay before heading out, carry extra water, and pack warm gear. The reward is raw Andean wilderness few ever see, plus bragging rights for crossing one of Chile’s most remote international borders.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Overland Route |
| Surface | Mixed |
| Features | High Altitude, Historic, Remote, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 28 mi / 45.1 km |
| Duration | 1-2 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 6180 ft |
| Best season | April-October |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 4WD |
| Nearest town | Lonquimay, Araucanía |
| Land manager | CONAF |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Tacoma or 4Runner handle Paso Pino Hachado?
Yes, a stock high-clearance 4WD is the minimum and will get through under normal conditions. Lockers or a lift help on the water crossings and loose volcanic surface, but aren't mandatory if the trail is dry.
When is Paso Pino Hachado passable and what closes it?
April through October is the reliable window. Andean winter (November–March) brings heavy snow above 6,000 ft that can close the pass entirely — sometimes without warning. Check CONAF and the Chilean border authority before committing.
Do you need permits or border documentation to drive this route?
Yes — this is an international crossing into Argentina, so you need valid vehicle documentation, passport, and a TVIP (Temporary Vehicle Import Permit) for Argentina. Process border paperwork at the Paso Pino Hachado official crossing; CONAF manages the Chilean side but doesn't issue border permits.
What's the hardest section and what makes it technical?
The water crossings on the Chilean approach are the crux — volcanic runoff channels can run fast and vary in depth depending on snowmelt. The surface shifts between loose pumice and rutted dirt, which kills traction if you're moving too fast or underinflated.
How far is the nearest fuel from the trailhead and is there water on route?
Lonquimay is your last reliable fuel stop — top off there, as there's nothing between town and the Argentine side. Water crossings are present on trail but treat anything you collect; glacial and volcanic runoff can carry sediment and contaminants.
Trail track
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