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Valle Hermoso - La principal

Chillán

A roundtrip with easy access and multiple descents

Ski Touring Difficult

Distance
4.8 km
Ascent
864 m
Descent
579 m
Duration
3-4 hrs
Low Point
1.7 km
High Point
2.6 km
Gradient
36˚
Valle Hermoso - La principal Map

The Pirigallo Hill is a favorite for touring because of its easy access, varied descents and from the peak you can see a 360° viewpoint of the snow-capped volcanic complex of Chillán.

Description

The best place to access this route is from the parking lot of the Thermal water park. From there you have to take the trail that goes to fumaroles, which in turn takes you to the Olla del Mote. Then you have to go down to the valley to the east and continue on the right side through the middle of the valley. When you get to the last part, where it starts to get steeper, it is recommended to take the left traverse to the top. The last section when you get to the peak is usually icy, where the easiest way is along the ridge.

At the top you will have a full view of the valley. To the east is Aguas Calientes, to the north the volcanoes Chillan Nuevo and Chillan Viejo and a little to the left in the background the volcano Nevados de Chillan.

From the top you will have different options of descents to the right (looking at the valley) on the southern slope, where each one will have its positive characteristics. The unmissable route is "La Princi" an extensive descent down a good slope where normally the snow is excellent.

Enjoy the descent and remember that if you do not want to put the skins again to return to the car, before entering the area with trees (2100masl) you must take a traverse to the right to return to the portezuelo of the fumaroles. And then you can go back the same way for the last descent to the parking lot.

We recommend you to go with the local guides of BackChillan as they are the ones who know the route and the best lines.

Difficulty

Difficult

Serious gradient of 30-38 degrees where a real risk of slipping exists.

Medium Exposure (E2)

2 out of 4

As well as the slope itself, there are some obstacles (such as rock outcrops) which could aggravate injury.

Remoteness

1 out of 4

Close to help in case of emergency.

Best time to visit

between June and September

Features

  • Face
  • Single Descent
  • Ski Mountaineering

Equipment required

  • Skins

Similar routes nearby

Guidebooks in this area