Ruta CH-115 – Termas del Flaco High Mountain Circuit
High Andes thermal springs via knife-edge mountain roads.
The CH-115 climbs from Curicó valley floor into the heart of Chile’s Andes, dead-ending at Termas del Flaco – natural hot springs tucked beneath 4,000-meter peaks along the Continental Divide. This is proper mountain driving where switchbacks carve through loose scree and the road narrows to single-track with thousand-foot drops. Past the old copper mine workings at El Teniente, you’re committed to a route that sees more condors than vehicles, culminating at thermal pools where gauchos have soaked aching bones for centuries.
Difficult rating earned through steep grades, rockfall zones, and weather that changes in minutes at altitude. Requires capable 4WD with low-range, good brakes, and experienced mountain driving skills. December through March only when snow clears – even then, carry chains and emergency gear. No fuel, food, or cell service for 80+ km. The payoff is world-class thermal springs, Andean condor sightings, and the kind of high-country solitude that reminds you why you bought that 4WD in the first place.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Difficult |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Technical 4x4 |
| Surface | Rock |
| Features | High Altitude, Remote, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 56 mi / 90.1 km |
| Duration | 1-2 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 11200 ft |
| Best season | December-March |
| Minimum vehicle | Capable 4WD with low-range |
| Nearest town | Curicó, O'Higgins |
| 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
What's the minimum rig to run CH-115 safely — can a stock SUV handle it?
No. You need a capable 4WD with low-range, good ground clearance (8+ inches minimum), and all-terrain tires. The rocky surface and knife-edge sections will punish anything less, and a breakdown at 11,200 feet with no cell service is a serious situation.
When is this trail actually open and passable?
December through March is the reliable window. Snow closes the high passes the rest of the year, and even in summer afternoon thunderstorms can make the exposed ridge sections dangerous fast — start early.
Do I need permits or do I pay fees to run this route?
CONAF manages the land and may require entry registration or a fee at control points near Termas del Flaco — confirm current requirements directly with CONAF's O'Higgins regional office before you go, as rules change seasonally.
What's the hardest section and what exactly makes it technical?
The knife-edge mountain road segments are the crux — narrow shelf roads with loose rock, significant exposure on one side, and no room to pass oncoming traffic. Expect slow, deliberate driving; 56 miles will take a full day or more.
Are there water crossings and can I count on finding water to camp near?
Yes, there are river crossings — depths vary by snowmelt levels so scout before you commit, especially in early December when runoff is highest. Dispersed camping is available along the route and mountain water sources exist, but carry a filter and enough to cover you between reliable crossings.
Trail track
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