Chile opens a new 95km multi-use trail inside Torres del Paine National Park on December 1. The route connects the Grey Glacier viewpoint to the French Valley. Permits cost 35 US dollars and are limited to 200 hikers daily.
The trail features three new suspension bridges and six designated campsites. Construction finished in May after two years of work. The path is open to hikers and cyclists but closed to vehicles.
Background context shows Torres del Paine received 310,000 visitors in 2025. Park authorities closed sections in 2023 due to overuse. The new trail redistributes foot traffic away from the W circuit.
Entry tickets must be purchased through the official CONAF website. Rangers will patrol the route starting November 15. Similar trail expansions occurred in 2021 and 2024.
What this means for you
Reserve permits now for December dates as they sell out quickly. Pack layers for temperatures between 5 and 18 degrees Celsius. Carry bear spray and follow leave-no-trace rules.
Book refugio stays in advance through the park concessionaire. Avoid the trail during high winds above 60 km/h. Download offline maps before entering the park.
Additional trail sections may open in 2027. Check CONAF social media for daily capacity updates.