The green lake
Among mountains.
Márcio Motta — CC BY 2.0 · Justraveling.com — CC BY-SA 4.0 · https://www.flickr.com/photos/inmyflippiefloppies/ — CC BY 2.0 · Eugeniabaccaro — CC BY-SA 4.0
Laguna Esmeralda, the Emerald Lagoon, is a small mountain lake of turquoise green in a valley near Ushuaia, reached by the area's most popular hike outside the national park. The trail starts from a car park on National Route 3, about 18 kilometres from town. The path first runs through lenga forest, then crosses a broad plain of moss and peat bog, with boardwalks in places, before a short climb to the lake ringed by mountains, with a small glacier above it. It is not hard, but often muddy, especially after rain or snowmelt. The walk takes about four to five hours there and back. Entry and parking are free, but the car park is small, so go early. Wear waterproof boots and bring warm layers; in winter snow can cover the trail and a guide is advisable.
Among mountains.
With boardwalks.
At the start.
Trailhead on National Route 3, about 18 km northeast of Ushuaia
Not in summer; the trail is free and clear, though muddy. In winter snow can cover it, and a guide is advisable.