Torres del Paine

After meeting Bubble Tea, our plan was to see the mountains! From Punta Arenas, we moved north to Puerto Natales. This small coastal town is the southern terminal for the Chilean ferry system, as well as the jumping point for trips to Parque Nacional Torres del Paine. As we crested the hill and entered town, we both were hit with thoughts of Southeast Alaska, as the peaks rising from the inlet reminded us of Haines, AK very much. That evening we were treated to the most amazing cloud formations imagined during the sunset.
Early next morning we continued north into Torres del Paine. This is Patagonia's most visited park, with about 120,000 folks making the trip deep into the mountains every year. We entered the park from the south, and found this to be a fantastic road toward the towering granite peaks. Views of the glacier and the towers were to be had all day, with excellent weather to boot. We found a sheltered spot at the outskirts of camp, and tucked in. Rain came, and lasted all night, with a cold snap attached. The snow level had dropped to about 400 meters and the foothills were blanketed with a nice dusting. We decided to skip the start of our hike and sleep in. Next day was dry, but the cloud cover was still draped over the peaks. We started early, and took the trail that led up to the Mirador los Torres, an 18 km. hike that took you right up to the giant granite towers. A good, long hike with very strong winds and whiteout conditions at the top. Next day as we left the clouds moved on as well, giving us great views of the peaks from afar.