Driving the Scenic Y-620 Road to Laguna Parrillar
Y-620 is a short, unpaved mountain road in southern Chile's Magallanes and Antártica Chilena Region, leading to Laguna Parrillar.
What Is Laguna Parrillar?
Laguna Parrillar is a lagoon that completely freezes during winter due to its altitude and the region’s low temperatures. The ice can be up to 11 inches thick, and snow often reaches a depth of 2 feet in some areas. Rivers and lagoons in the reserve also turn into ice during the colder months. The lagoon offers a picturesque setting and ample space for picnics.
How Long Is the Road to Laguna Parrillar?
The road, also called Camino a Reserva Laguna Parrillar, is 21.7 km (13.48 miles) long. It runs west to east from the paved Ruta 9, south of Punta Arenas, to Laguna Parrillar. The Laguna Parrillar National Reserve, named after its main lake, encompasses this area.
Is the Road to Laguna Parrillar Unpaved?
The road is a graded dirt track manageable for most passenger cars in dry weather. Along the route, there are seven stopping points with clearings for picnics and opportunities for trout fishing during October to March.
A Protected Natural Area
The Laguna Parrillar National Reserve was established in 1977 to protect the hydrographic basin of Laguna Parrillar, which serves as the main water reserve for Punta Arenas. It spans 18,414 hectares and offers stunning landscapes and outdoor activities.
Pic: Dr. Logix