We make our way up to Refugio López in the afternoon, aiming to spend the night and start our ascent early the next morning. The mountain hut sits just beneath a striking ridge of mountain peaks with a soft pillow-like face below, visible from downtown Bariloche — a familiar view we've admired for years.
A last-minute decision to seize a good weather window before another snow storm rolls in sends us uphill. We arrive at the hut just before the evening falls and the sky turns all shades of pink and orange.
Above the Tree Line
The next morning at the top it's silent, save for the occasional sweep of Andean condors — one of the largest flying bird species on Earth — circling above the untouched snow. On the descent, Bariloche and the vast Nahuel Huapi Lake stretch out below us. Once in a while we pause to enjoy the view from up here.
The Andes mountain range just hits differently. The views are magnificent, and the vastness makes you wonder what lies beyond the next valley.
Why the Andes Are Different
The Andes mountain range just hits differently. The views are magnificent, and the vastness makes you wonder what lies beyond the next valley. That is how I, Mila, originally from the Netherlands, fell in love with the Andes. Anyone who has visited will know exactly what I mean — and anyone who hasn't yet: this is your sign to plan your adventure.
About the Route
- Cerro López is accessible from Bariloche by car (45 minutes).
- The ascent to Refugio López takes approximately 3–4 hours.
- The mountain hut offers basic but warm accommodation and hearty mountain meals.
- This is a perfect introduction to Patagonian backcountry skiing for those who want to step beyond the resort boundary.
