In the outskirts of Río Turbio, this small ski center has the privilege to have temperatures that ensure a long season immersed in a spectacular lenga forest.
At the spot known as Mina 1, four kilometers away from Río Turbio, there lies Valdelén Winter Sports Center. Settled on Dorotea Mountain Range, it has a skiable surface of 100 hectares and the features of its hillsides preserve powder snow almost all through the day.
A lenga forest and the magnificent surrounding hills and ravines are part of the main attraction at this center. Downhill and Nordic skiing, as well as snowboarding are the specialties that stand out at its well-signaled trails. Only skiing across the forest is restricted for matters of safety.
One of the three trails has been lighted and is the first one of its kind in South America. This lets skiers continue enjoying the snow till late at night thus taking more advantage of the day.
The trail where snow is best preserved due to its orientation is 500 meters long and features a 19-degree slope. It is usually open from April to September.
The other two trails are 250 meters long and have a 38-degree slope. They may be used by beginners and expert skiers. Ski lifts and chairlifts cover the area up to the summit, which lies 850 meters MSL.
As the season starts, both Argentinian and Chilean skiers come along from far away to enjoy the family atmosphere and the varied activities available amidst the breathtaking scenery.
In addition to ski, there are circuits for snowmobiles and sleds, snowshoeing trails and photographic safari outings. Amazing views of Torres del Paine National Park (Chile) are appreciated from certain locations inside the venue.
Last but not least, La Frontera Inn, located at the base of the mountain, offers coffee-shop, restaurant and accommodation in addition to other venues located inside the resort. Likewise, children daycare services, instructors and equipment and snowmobile rentals are available for visitors.
History goes that this ski resort owes its existence to Club Andino Río Turbio and the effort and imagination of the first pioneers. Later on, the former citizens gave way to young businessmen who gave shape to the new resort.
The Snow Provincial Festival is celebrated every year in August. It includes competitions, folkloric festivals, theater performances and handicrafts stands that give color to the winter in Santa Cruz.
At Valdelén, making artificial snow is out of the question as nature has granted exceptional snow and magical nights to this venue that occupies the first positions in the Patagonian ski center ranking.
Contact:
Club Andino Río Turbio (CART)
Mina 1
Tel: 54 2902 42 1900