Patagonia Flat

The newly marked trail starts only 15 minutes from the Lodge where a small arrow sign directs us to the right.  We will make the 16 km loop counterclockwise – hopefully running into the suspension bridge after 5 kms. Some of the group have decided they will turn back at this point, to make it a 10 km day. Others will decide when they get there.

See Helen’s bright blue jacket?

The lakes are spring fed. This one is quite dry but still has water. Others on this trail are completely empty of water.

The grasses are slowly recovering after decades of sheep farming. Now the tufts blend together and the variety of species is increasing.

Small steps to enormous vistas!

Hans in his Chilean Patagonian garb (every day!) has an emergency first aid kit on his belt; lots of extra supplies for us in his Chilean Air Force back pack. He doesn’t add or subtract a layer all day, while the rest of us adjust our wardrobe routinely to adapt to the various winds and temps: coat on, hat off, gloves yes then no, etc.

Glaciers in the distance are the norm.

There is no pollution in Patagonia!

BUT smoke from Cochrane’s 31 different fires blows in just a few minutes – then will switch out the other way!

Monica and Katie are not with us today. Here is John, Helen Davies; Dan Shaw, me and Michael!

Guanacos appear in the grasses moving in different directions than the prevailing wind.

Three in the group turn onto a road to meet up with Hans who runs back to bring the van. M & I trek on!

This is a brand NEW suspension bridge – that will connect the trails… AFTER we cross it through terrific winds, we find CLOSED signs on the other side! The trails are still incomplete. We DO walk across it – so scary!

The Baker River below is beautifully turquoise and milky from the glacial silt.

MP on the other side!

This sign means only 1 more to go! Looks pretty good to me!