RIVER GUIDE
Learn about the main river sections available during the Patagonia Packrafting Roundup and how their conditions can change throughout the season.
INTRODUCTION
Rivers Are Constantly Changing
Rivers are dynamic systems.
Precipitation, temperature, snowmelt, and other environmental factors can significantly change the conditions of a river section within hours or days.
The same section can offer very different experiences at low, medium, or high water levels. For this reason, the information presented in this guide should be understood as a general reference rather than an exact description of the conditions that will exist during the event.
PUELO CHICO RIVER
Middle Section — "Los Troncos"
Water Levels - Flows | Low | Medium | High |
|---|---|---|---|
Difficulty | Class III. More exposed rocks but still navigable. Around three short portages due to shallow water. | Clase III. More continuous flow. Ideal water level for this section. | Clase III - III+ Stronger currents. Most rocks covered. Ferries, eddy entries, and eddy exits become more demanding. |
Distance - Estimated Time | 3 Km. 1.8 Miles. | About 1 hour of paddling (depending on water level, group size, and number of stops). | |
Put in - Take Out | Put in: Camping Los Troncos. Km 10 · V-725 Road | Take Out: End of the last major Class III rapid, known as "Fiesta". Km 8, V-725 Road | |
Elevation Drop - Gradient | 44 m elevation loss. Average gradient: 16 m/km. | ||
Character | Continuous boulder garden with multiple Class III rapids connected by short pools and recovery zones. |
Description
The Puelo Chico Middle Section is one of the river's most representative whitewater runs. Over nearly 3 kilometers, it combines a continuous sequence of Class III rapids, defined currents, and numerous opportunities to practice river reading, eddy turns, ferries, and precision boat handling. The character of the section is defined by a continuous boulder garden where rapids are linked by short pools and recovery zones. Although relatively short, the run offers dynamic paddling that keeps participants engaged throughout most of the descent.
Conditions can vary significantly depending on water level. At low flows, more rocks become exposed and some shallow areas appear, while medium and high flows create faster, more powerful currents that increase both maneuvering speed and the technical challenge of certain lines. For many participants, this section offers an excellent balance of learning, progressive challenge, and fun, making it one of the most popular runs during the Patagonia Packrafting Roundup.
Lower Section - "De la Fiesta pa' abajo"
Water Levels - Flows | Low | Medium | High |
|---|---|---|---|
Difficulty | Clase II. Navigable but with several short portages due to shallow water. | Clase II+. Good flow for this section. Fun wave trains and multiple eddies for learning and practice. Still a couple of short portages. | Clase II+. Excellent level for paddling. Most main channels are covered and portages are generally unnecessary. |
Distance - Estimated Time | 8.5 Km. 5.3 Miles. | 2–4 hours of paddling (depending on water level, group size, and number of stops). At very low water levels, travel time may increase due to portages. | |
Put in - Take Out | Put in: End of the last Class III rapid, "Fiesta". Km 8, V-725 Road. | Take Out: Puelo Chico Bridge, V-69 Road. | |
Elevation Drop - Gradient | 129 m elevation loss. Average gradient: 15 m/km. | ||
Character | A mix of friendly rapids, continuous current, and extensive braided river sections where the flow spreads across multiple channels. | Conditions may vary considerably depending on water level. |
Description
The Puelo Chico Lower Section offers an experience very different from the middle section. Over approximately 8.5 kilometers, it combines easy rapids, continuous current, and extensive braided sections where the river splits into multiple channels and waterways. Paddling is generally more relaxed and less technical than in the Class III section, allowing participants to cover greater distances while enjoying the scenery and open views of the valley. Depending on water levels, paddlers may encounter wave trains, faster currents, and numerous eddies that provide excellent opportunities to practice fundamental maneuvering, river reading, and boat control skills.
Conditions can change considerably with flow levels. During extended dry periods, some channels may become shallow and require short walks or portages. At medium and high flows, many of these channels reconnect, creating a smoother and more continuous paddling experience.
For participants looking for an accessible, scenic, and enjoyable river experience, this section is one of the most versatile options available during the Patagonia Packrafting Roundup.