Tolhuaca National Park, Nature reserve in Araucanía Region, Chile.
Tolhuaca National Park is a nature reserve in the Araucanía Region featuring mountain terrain, glacial lagoons, cascading waterfalls, and mixed forests of native tree species. The landscape shows steep valleys, open meadows, and dense woodland sections at different elevations.
The park was established in 1935 as a smaller protected territory. A major expansion in 1985 nearly doubled its size to preserve more forest and mountain ecosystems.
The Mapuche people have gathered araucaria seeds here for centuries as a fundamental food source. This practice shaped how communities understand and care for these forests today.
The park offers multiple hiking trails of varying difficulty from short walks to full-day routes. Bring sturdy footwear and weather protection since the mountain terrain is steep and conditions can change quickly.
The Malleco River originates within the park and flows through multiple valleys as it begins its journey toward lower elevations. Few visitors realize they can see where this important regional waterway starts.
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