Fotografía: Augusto Dominguez
The Yates (also called Llebcan and Llenquimau), considered by the explorer and scientist Federico Reichert as “the northern pillar of the western Patagonian mountain range”, is located to the south of the Reloncaví estuary, in a privileged place as a viewpoint of the geography that surrounds the Gulf of Ancud. It belongs to a volcanic segment strongly controlled by the action of the Liquiñe-Ofqui fault zone. The ascent hike starts practically from the sea level. Beautiful forests accompany the route, whose final section is only suitable for experienced mountaineers, because the glacier is crossed by large cracks.
Baptized with the surname of Juan Yates, a practical pilot who accompanied Admiral Simpson in the exploration of the Patagonian channels and also Fitz Roy in the Beagle, the Yates has three main peaks, joined by an exposed North-South edge of about 800m long. Its highest height is the northern peak, about 30m higher than the south.
To access it, you can arrive from the north, from the town of Llaquepe, or from the south, starting from Hornopirén through the Río Negro valley, which ends at the Pinto Concha lake.
The first ascent of the northern peak was made in 1845.
This volcano does not register historical eruptive activity. However, there are historical records of a series of catastrophic events, such as debris avalanches, avalanches and river floods in the 19th and 20th centuries.
The Yates Volcano can be promoted throughout the year. However, the summer months are recommended since there will be better conditions of climatic stability and the trail will be less muddy. In winter you can climb with skis, however you must climb a good distance with these in the back.
One of the cruises that you can not miss if you visit the area.
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