Estancia Túnel Coastal Hike in Ushuaia

Estancia Túnel: a scenic coastal trail near Ushuaia

The hike to Estancia Túnel follows part of the Beagle Channel coast around 12 km from Ushuaia, with coastal viewpoints and native forest. The trail begins near Playa Larga Natural and Cultural Reserve, at the end of the gravel road close to the Escarpados navigation beacon.

Through the forest along the Beagle Channel

The trail is well marked in its initial sections but crosses uneven forest ground, with roots and mild slopes. Sturdy hiking footwear is recommended. Along the coast you can appreciate forests with guindo, canelo, leña dura and notro trees, as well as the characteristic ecosystem of the Beagle Channel.

After approximately one kilometre through the forest, the path opens to a viewpoint overlooking the channel. Continue across a stream and down a gentle hillside to reach the historic Estancia Túnel, which once combined livestock farming with a sawmill established in 1917. Its remains are a reminder of Tierra del Fuego’s past.

History along the trail

The route crosses a stream known as Lancha Packewaia. Its name recalls an Argentine Navy launch that sank in 1975 while supporting anthropological work near the Escarpados beacon. This area later became important to archaeological research along the Beagle Channel.

Practical hiking information

• Trailhead: near the Escarpados navigation beacon, at the end of the road to Playa Larga
• Distance to the estancia: approximately 2.2 km one way, according to the original listing
• Estimated round-trip time: about 3 hours
• Difficulty: low, with some uneven forest terrain
• Elevation difference: up to approximately 50 metres

Wear suitable footwear, bring drinking water and a snack and plan to complete the hike in daylight. A qualified local guide is recommended. Hiking conditions can vary with weather.