Huerquehue National Park is a compact but stunning protected area known for its pristine mountain lakes and ancient Araucaria forests. The park’s most famous trail, the Los Lagos (The Lakes) circuit, takes hikers through multiple elevations and ecosystems, passing turquoise lakes set like jewels among volcanic peaks and monkey puzzle trees. The name “Huerquehue” means “place of messengers” in Mapudungun.
Despite its relatively small size of 12,500 hectares, Huerquehue packs incredible biodiversity and scenic beauty. The park features 20 glacial lakes and lagoons, each with its own character and surrounded by pristine forests of Araucaria, coihue, and lenga. The trails are well-maintained and accessible to hikers of various skill levels, though the elevation gain on the main circuit provides a good workout. The park serves as an important refuge for native wildlife including pudú (miniature deer), wild boar, and numerous bird species including the impressive Chilean flicker.