I finally got the chance to visit Patagonia and hike the W trail at Torres del Paine National Park. 4 days, 53 miles, 10,600 ft elevation gained. The entire thing was surreal. An incredible, beautiful life-changing experience. Nice work on this one, Chile.

Day one

We started at the welcome center and walked to the base of the towers, the most famous viewpoint in the park.

We were lucky to catch a view of the towers before the clouds rolled in. The photos don’t really do it justice. One of the most incredible things I’ve ever seen.

Day two

A stunning trek from the central campsite to our second campsite in the French valley. Hard to pick, but I think this was the best day overall. Consistently stunning views for hours and hours.

Day three

Back into the mountains, through the French valley to the British Viewpoint. And there were glaciers. So many glaciers.

We got our first real taste of Patagonian weather as it rained all day. We couldn’t see everything well, but it was an unforgettable experience and we loved it all the same.

Throughout the day, we’d hear the sounds of rolling thunder. It was the sound of a glacier shifting. I was lucky enough to see an avalanche turn into a waterfall in front of my eyes.

Day four

We awoke to magical blue skies before heading to Grey’s glacier, the most famous glacier in the park.

The hike finishes with a boat ride back to the start, where you can catch a bus back to Puerto Natales. The views were incredible.

Bonus – Puerto Natales

The main base town for the park is a great place to spend a day. Highly recommend breakfast at Holaste, crab at Centolla, and drinks at Last Hope, the southernmost distillery in the world.