Feb 22 - Volcan Osorno

Our first full day in Puerto Varas - we head off in a mini bus towards Volcan Osorno with no specific plans.  On the bus we strike up a conversation with a guide and a couple going kayaking on Lago Todos los Santos (near Petrohue).  They suggest we hike in Parque Nacional Vincente Perez Rosales - so off we go.

This park encompasses Volcan Osorno.  It is 2652 metres tall and one of the most active volcanoes in southern Chile, although its last eruption was 1869.  We choose the Desolacion Trail - not an inviting name but we'll get a good look at the mountain.

One of the early views of the mountain, from the opposite side to the view in yesterday's blog.  That's not steam at the top, only a wisp of cloud.











Early on on the trail, on the lower flank.  Some of the last lava flow hasn't re-vegetated yet.  It is pretty inhospitable looking.  That is Volcan Calbuco in the background.

This part of the trail has scrubby trees and lichen on the ground.  The lichen is present all the way up.












We cross numerous dry riverbeds.  I assume they flow during the wetter and snow melting seasons.  

We saw one small flowing stream.  In the morning it was light gray.  In the afternoon it was chocolate brown - I'm guessing the hot day melted snow and the water collected brown silt.

 Looking back, the view is fabulous.  We could easily pick out half a dozen volcanoes.  

Looking at Osorno now - the peak is 5 km away.  The vegetation is getting more sparse.

Notice the two very red patches of mineral - I assume that's iron (right, Bruce?)

This is as far as we got - about 8 km along the 12 km trail.  It would be easier to complete the trail rather than go back.  However,  you need a vehicle at the other end to pick you up (no buses), so hiking back we go.

Last shot of Osorno from as far up as we got.  Pretty bleak, but impressive place.

A close up of the glacier peak.  

Today's last photo is Laura chugging down with the lake in the background.