Refugio López

Refugio López is a mountain hut on Cerro López near Bariloche, used for alpine trekking and overnight stays. It sits at 1,620 m and has capacity for about 100 people, with large dormitories plus a dining room, kitchen, bathrooms, and electric lighting.

Access is via Circuito Chico: drive or bus to km 22.5, then take the path that begins at the left side of Arroyo López. The approach climbs steadily through forest and crosses Arroyo López before a short final walk to the hut. Routes from the refuge include trekking to nearby peaks such as Principal, Turista, and La Hoya, and longer connections to other mountain refuges for multi-day traverses.

Registration and reservations are handled before departure: hiking registration is mandatory for all groups, and advance reservations are required to sleep in or camp at the refuges. The hut is most reliable in warmer months; snow can remain around the area well into summer, and winter access can be more demanding.