Caviahue lies on the western shore of Lago Caviahue and is the closest town to Parque Provincial Copahue. When planning your trip, it is worth noting the differences between the destinations: Cascada Escondida is west of town, Laguna Escondida is behind the town, and Cascadas del Agrio are nearby. There are also water sports on the lake and the Cerro Caviahue ski resort. Caviahue also has various local trails that take in natural attractions at lakes, lagoons, streams, waterfalls and the volcano.

Waterfalls, Forest and Lagoons

Cascada Escondida can be reached via a 1,800-meter trail through a forest of lengas, araucarias and ñires. The trailhead is on the road to the ski center. In summer, the trail can be hiked; in winter, it can be traversed on snowshoes. The trail length and named tree species give the route a distinctive connection to the landscape; the waterfall is part of a longer walk through the forest.

Laguna Escondida is a small natural lagoon behind the town. From there, you can enjoy views of Caviahue, Lago Caviahue and the Copahue Volcano. From the tourist information office, you can reach the lagoon trailhead via 8 de Abril Street to Volcán Copahue Street. In summer, the trail can be hiked; in winter, snowshoes, touring skis or snowmobiles are possible. Unlike the Cascada Escondida route, the Laguna Escondida route also offers touring skis and snowmobiles in winter; both routes are described as hiking trails in summer and snowshoe routes in winter.

Cascadas del Agrio are near Caviahue, 500 meters from the tourist information office. Their loop trail is approximately 1.5 kilometers long. The waterfalls were shaped over millions of years by volcanic processes and glaciations. The trail is signposted: in summer, it can be hiked; in winter, snowshoes and cross-country or touring skis with a guide are possible. The trail lengths can be compared directly: 1,800 meters for the path to Cascada Escondida and approximately 1.5 kilometers for the loop trail at Cascadas del Agrio.

Lake and Winter Activities

Kayaking and windsurfing are offered as water sports on Lago Caviahue within the protected area. These activities on the water complement the trails to lagoons and waterfalls, providing a distinct focus for trip planning.

Cerro Caviahue Ski Resort has 22 ski runs across 325 hectares of skiable terrain. The resort’s Escuela de Ski & Snowboard offers private and group ski and snowboard lessons throughout the season for all ages and skill levels. Group lessons are available for groups of five or more. Alongside the nature trails that vary by season, visitors can choose from specific winter offerings such as ski runs and lessons.

Registration is mandatory for guides, visitors, residents and researchers ascending the Copahue Volcano.

For the broader travel overview: Departamento Ñorquín.