Ruta Provincial 307 Parque Nacional Lanín Volcán Lanín Circuit
Volcanic circuit through thousand-year-old forests
RP 307 loops around the base of Volcán Lanín through some of Patagonia’s most pristine araucaria forests, where 1,000-year-old monkey puzzle trees tower above crystal-clear lakes. The track passes Lago Tromen and Lago Huechulafquen before climbing toward the Chilean border through stands of southern beech that explode in autumn reds and golds. River crossings at Río Malleo and Arroyo Rucachoroi can be knee-deep during spring snowmelt, requiring careful line selection through boulder gardens.
This moderate route demands high-clearance 4WD for the rougher northern sections and unbridged stream crossings. December through April offers the best conditions, though expect afternoon thunderstorms. Fill up in Junín de los Andes — fuel is scarce inside the park. Permits are required for overnight camping but day use is free. The payoff is driving through Argentina’s most spectacular temperate rainforest with camping beside glacial lakes where condors soar against the backdrop of a perfect volcanic cone.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Overland Route |
| Surface | Dirt |
| Features | Camping, Scenic, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 65 mi / 104.6 km |
| Duration | 2-3 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 4600 ft |
| Best season | December-April |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 4WD |
| Nearest town | Junín de los Andes, Neuquén |
| 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
What's the minimum rig to run the Volcán Lanín circuit on RP-307?
High-clearance 4WD is required — this isn't a trail for stock crossovers or 2WD pickups. The dirt road sections and water crossings demand real 4WD engagement, especially when wet. A lifted truck or dedicated overland build will handle it without drama.
When is RP-307 actually passable? Can you run it in November?
December through April is the reliable window. November can work in dry years but snow and mud at elevation make it a gamble. The road can close without notice outside peak austral summer, so check with Parques Nacionales Lanín before committing.
Do you need a permit to drive the circuit through Parque Nacional Lanín?
Yes — you need a park entry permit administered by Administración de Parques Nacionales. There's an entry fee for the national park. Get current fee info and register at the park office in Junín de los Andes or through argentina.gob.ar/parquesnacionales/lanin before you roll in.
What's the sketchiest section of this route and what should I expect?
The water crossings are the biggest variable — their depth and current shift dramatically based on snowmelt and recent rain. In January and February flows are typically manageable for a high-clearance 4WD, but after heavy rain they can stop you cold. Walk every crossing before you drive it.
How far is the nearest gas from the circuit, and is there cell service on route?
Fuel up fully in Junín de los Andes before heading out — there are no gas stations on the circuit itself. Cell service is spotty at best and nonexistent through most of the route, so carry a satellite communicator. The 104 km loop takes 2-3 days with dispersed camping along the way.
Trail track
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