The magic of nature is just minutes away...

The Martial Glacier is an emblem of Ushuaia. It is located within the Natural Protected Area of the same name, just 7 kilometers from the center, and offers all kinds of activities to enjoy nature. In winter, alpine skiing and snowboarding are the preferred activities, while in summer, it is one of the most accessible places for hiking. Additionally, you will find gastronomic establishments open year-round.

The Martial Glacier is a cirque glacier, characterized by its amphitheater or semicircular shape. It is situated at an altitude of about 1000 meters and is named after the commander of the French scientific expedition of 1882-1883, Louis Ferdinand Martial. Currently, it is a glacial remnant, representing the remains of a much larger ancient glacier. The Buena Esperanza stream, which originates from there, is an important source of drinking water for the city.

To reach the glacier, you follow the winding Luis Fernando Martial street, which ascends the mountain and offers panoramic views of the city and the canal that surprise you at every curve. Along the way, you'll find some hotels and restaurants. Before reaching the end of the road, there is a refuge and the Francisco Jerman ski trail of the Ushuaia Andean Club, where you can rent sleds, toboggans, and cross-country skis, and practice right there. You can also ascend through a mountain trail that runs alongside the Buena Esperanza stream, a few meters away from the asphalt road.

A good way to experience the Martial Glacier is to take one-way transportation and then walk back to the center, as the descent allows you to see the city and the canal from a privileged angle.

At the end of the road, you will reach a mountain refuge and a small ski slope that functions as a ski and snowboard school in winter. It is ideal for children and those starting from scratch or who prefer activities not far from the city. In summer, right there, you can enjoy zip-lining through the lenga forests. At the end of the route, you will also find a picturesque tea house and a brewery with outdoor grills.

From there, the marked trail begins that leads up to the glacier. The path offers incredible panoramic views of the city, the Ushuaia Bay, and the Chilean islands of Navarino and Hoste. At one point, the trail splits in two: to the right, a path that leads to Cañadón Negro, from where you can see the Andorra Valley, the Vinciguerra Glacier, and the Beagle Channel; to the left, it leads to the base of the glacier. You can continue climbing the glacier or take a walk on it, as long as you have a specialized guide with the proper equipment and experience.

At any time of the year, the Natural Reserve is an ideal place to connect with nature without going too far.

Recommendations for hiking:

- Choose trails according to duration, experience, and physical condition.

- Hike with one or more companions.

- Wear appropriate clothing and footwear.

- Stay well hydrated and bring food.

- Take your trash back with you.

- Do not bring pets; we must respect the native wildlife.

- Do not make fires.

- Stay within the trails, respecting the surrounding native flora and refraining from cutting flowers or tree branches.

- Start hikes preferably in the morning or with plenty of daylight remaining. Keep in mind that in winter, daylight hours are few and the temperature drops significantly.

Source: https://turismoushuaia.com/actividad/glaciar-martial/