Nahuel Huapi National Park management and weather alerts

Nahuel Huapi National Park has initiated efforts to improve visitor management and safety through a two-year inter-administrative agreement. This partnership between the National Parks Administration, the Government of Río Negro, and local development commissions aims to enhance access management, online ticket sales, and emergency response, including the provision of a helicopter for services.

Following these administrative developments, authorities issued weather alerts for the Andean region, forecasting rain, snow, and strong winds. The weather conditions, including predicted snow accumulations of up to 40 centimeters, coincided with the conclusion of the 2026 ski season at Batea Mahuida Snow Park, which announced its lifts would remain operational until October 4.

Subsequent heavy rainfall and red alerts issued by the National Meteorological Service on September 23 and 25 have led to the closure of tourism circuits to Cerro Tronador and Cascada Los Alerces. Intense precipitation, combined with low temperatures and mountain snow, caused significant flooding of the Manso River, particularly affecting the Pampa Linda area.

Technical teams from the Patagonia Norte Regional Directorate are currently conducting field assessments in the Pampa Linda and Cerro Tronador sectors to evaluate infrastructure damage. The park administration confirmed these closures are necessary safety measures, and officials will provide updates on when access can be safely restored.

On October 10, the park’s emergency response capabilities were utilized during a seven-hour rescue operation for a 36-year-old female hiker who suffered a leg injury on the trail toward the Frey refuge. The operation involved seven brigadistas from the Department of Fires, Communications and Emergencies (ICE), two park rangers, and six members of the Rescue Commission. The hiker was evacuated via stretcher, boat, and ambulance. In response to the incident, authorities reiterated the necessity of completing the mandatory Trekking Registry, checking weather forecasts, and ensuring hikers possess appropriate equipment.