Tralcán

Tralcán is a mountain summit located west of Riñihue Lake in Chile's Región de Los Ríos. The peak rises to approximately 1,024 meters and sits in terrain marked by forests and slopes that descend toward the lake below.

The mountain is strongly associated with the 1960 Valdivia earthquake, when massive landslides from its slopes created a natural dam at Riñihue Lake. This event reshaped the landscape and left visible marks that remain observable today.

The name Tralcán comes from Mapudungun, the language of Huilliche communities, and means 'thunder'. This word reflects how indigenous peoples connected the mountain to the powerful natural forces that shaped their world.

Climbing to the summit requires good preparation, as weather in the region can change quickly. It is best to start from hiking trails around Riñihue Lake and bring sturdy footwear and weather-resistant clothing.

The mountain contains rare fossil layers from the Triassic period, which geologists named the Tralcán Formation. These rock layers offer windows into the ancient geological history of the region.

GPS coordinates: -39.79658,-72.46087

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:10