Chasing Glaciers

Chasing Glaciers is a guided mountain bike day tour through the hills behind Punta Arenas, tracing the glacial and cultural history of the Strait of Magellan. Offered as a half day or full day outing, it combines nature, sport and culture on full suspension bikes.

The ride begins on the edge of the city with a steep climb into the hills, then follows trails and paths through native forest. Along the way the guide explains the natural and cultural history of the Strait, including the glacial and palaeontological story told by the landscape and how it has been transformed over time.

From the high ground, riders look out over the basins that surround Punta Arenas and learn how the city relates to its environment and people. The return is a descent on singletracks used by local riders, with transport provided between the meeting point and the trailhead.

Highlights:

• Trails and paths through the hills above Punta Arenas
• Native forest crossed by trails that tell the area's glacial and palaeontological history
• Guide commentary on the natural and cultural history of the Strait of Magellan
• Views over the basins surrounding the city
• Singletrack descents used by local riders
• Full suspension mountain bikes supplied

Surface and terrain:
Mountain bike trails, forest paths and singletrack in the hills above Punta Arenas. Starts with a steep climb from the city edge and finishes with singletrack descents. Altimetry is listed as 1,000+ metres.

Weather:
They ride all year, with conditions varying by season, and warn that Patagonian weather can turn any trail into hard work. Light and warm layers, a windbreaker and sunscreen (even when cloudy) are advised.

Suitable for:
Riders with mountain bike experience and moderate to good fitness, rated 2 to 4 (of 5) for both physical and technical level. The route is pitched to the rider's level, from dirt roads and wide tracks through to technical singletrack.