Nant y Fall Waterfalls: Trevelin's Seven-Cascade Reserve

Nant y Fall Waterfalls lies 18 km from Trevelin along Ruta Nacional 259, where a 4 km forest trail leads to seven cascades on the Nant y Fall stream. The reserve opens daily from 8:30 AM to 7:00 PM; entry costs 2,500 ARS for adults, with free admission for children under 12 and visitors with disabilities.

The stream begins at Lago Rosario and drops through a canyon more than 100 meters deep, creating falls including La Petiza, Las Mellizas, and La Larga. A 1.3 km out-and-back trail with 31 meters of elevation gain reaches several viewpoints in about 21 minutes of walking. The path is well marked and suitable for most fitness levels, though the final descent to the falls involves uneven stone steps that can be slippery after rain.

Getting There and Orientation

Most visitors base themselves in Trevelin, a Welsh-founded town 25 km from Esquel. From Trevelin, drive southwest on RN259 for about 18 km; the signed turnoff to the reserve appears on your left. The access road is gravel but passable for standard cars in dry weather. From Esquel, the drive takes roughly 50 minutes. Public transport is limited, so a rental car or organized tour is the practical choice. Civitatis offers a three-hour excursion from Esquel for US$99, which includes transport but not the 1,000 ARS entry fee (rates change, so confirm when booking).

By Car

If you are driving from Trevelin, fill up on fuel before leaving town — there are no service stations along RN259. The reserve's parking area sits at the trailhead, and staff will watch bicycles if you arrive on two wheels. The road winds through lenga forest and open steppe, with glimpses of the Andes. Allow 25 minutes from Trevelin and 50 minutes from Esquel.

By Tour

Day trips from Esquel typically depart at 2:30 PM and return around 7:00 PM, combining the waterfalls with a visit to Trevelin's Welsh tea houses or the Nant Fach mill. These tours are conducted in Spanish, so independent travelers may prefer self-driving for flexibility.

The Waterfalls and Trail

The Nant y Fall stream tumbles over seven distinct drops, but three are the main draws: La Petiza (the smallest), Las Mellizas (the twins), and La Larga (the long one). The trail leads to a series of viewpoints overlooking the canyon. The 400-meter core path is mostly flat, while the full 1.3 km route adds a steeper section down to the river.

What You'll See

La Petiza is a wide, fan-shaped fall that spreads over smooth rock. Las Mellizas consists of two parallel chutes that merge into a single pool. La Larga is the tallest, a thin ribbon that plunges into a rocky basin. In spring (September to November), snowmelt from the surrounding peaks swells the flow, and the roar can be heard from the parking area. By late summer (February to March), the volume drops, exposing the sculpted rock channel.

Trail Details

The full circuit takes about 45 minutes at a relaxed pace, but most visitors spend two to three hours including photo stops and a picnic. The path is not a loop — you return the same way. Benches and grills are available near the entrance, and toilets are located at the trailhead. There is a small grocery store selling drinks and snacks, but no other services inside the reserve.

Practical Tips and Best Times to Visit

Spring and early summer offer the most dramatic water flow. October, when the nearby tulip fields bloom, is particularly busy — book accommodation in Trevelin in advance. Autumn (March to May) brings cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, with the lenga forest turning red and gold. Winter visits are possible but expect icy patches on the trail and shortened daylight hours.

What to Bring

Sturdy shoes with grip are essential — the stone steps near the falls stay damp year-round. Bring water and snacks, as the on-site store has a limited selection. A light rain jacket is useful even on sunny days, since spray from the falls can soak you at the closest viewpoints. Drones are not permitted without authorization from the reserve's administration.

Rules and Facilities

Pets are not allowed in the reserve. Cycling is prohibited on the trails, but you can leave bikes at the entrance. The reserve has a picnic area with tables and grills, and the river is shallow enough for wading in calm sections. Note that opening hours can vary by season, and entry fees are subject to change — check the official Trevelin tourism website for current rates before you go.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to visit Nant y Fall Waterfalls?

Adult entry is 2,500 ARS per person. Children under 12 and visitors with disabilities enter free. The fee is paid at the entrance gate, and rates are subject to change — confirm the current price when you arrive.

How long does it take to see the waterfalls?

Most people spend two to three hours including the 45-minute walk to the main viewpoints. The full 1.3 km trail takes about 21 minutes one way if you walk without stopping, but the uneven terrain and photo stops add time.

Is the trail suitable for young children or older visitors?

The first 400 meters are flat and accessible to most ages. The steeper descent to the falls has stone steps and uneven ground, which may be challenging for those with mobility issues. Benches are placed along the path for rest stops.

What is the best time of year to see strong water flow?

Spring (September to November) brings the highest volume from snowmelt, making the falls most impressive. October is the busiest month due to the tulip bloom, so expect more visitors. Summer offers warmer weather but lower flow.

Can I visit without a car?

Public transport to the reserve is nonexistent. The practical options are a rental car, a taxi from Trevelin (arrange a return pickup), or a guided tour from Esquel, which includes transport but not the entry fee.