Grey Glacier Quebrada Suspension Bridge
As ecotourism increases, Torres del Paine National Park’s natural resources have become severely strained. Every year after the snow melts, Park rangers must re-establish a hiking trail through the deep gorge (Quebrada) on ‘the Circuit’ — the major trail in the park. A bridge here is high on the Park’s list of urgent needs, but the Park simply did not have the money.
In 2010, we raised more than US$11,000 to fund construction of a pedestrian suspension bridge over the quebrada. A $7,500 grant came from the Tourism Cares Foundation (download a pdf of the press release here), and Conservation VIP collected more than $3,700 from generous individuals.
This bridge will greatly improve safety for hikers, offer a fantastic view of Grey Glacier, and encourage visitors to explore this gorgeous section of the Park, relieving overcrowding in other areas.
Construction will be completed in 2012
Richard Braunlich, a Conservation VIP volunteer, structural engineer, and hiking enthusiast, volunteered hundreds of hours helping the Park assess existing bridges, as well as water crossings without bridges. He then completed a site survey and prepared detailed designs for the Grey Glacier Quebrada Suspension Bridge. Here is a sketch of his design:
Richard spent six weeks in late 2011 in the Park, working with Chile’s National Park Service (CONAF) on the initial phase of construction. To see photos of the first phase of construction, click on the link to the photo album on our Facebook page Conservation VIP Facebook Album . Plans were made to return to the Park in 2012 to string the cable, lay the decking and complete construction. If you would like to see a report on the completed construction you can download a pdf copy of the report we wrote for Tourism Cares by clicking on this link progress report here),
Why help the Park?
Torres del Paine has been designated a Reserve of the Biosphere by UNESCO because of its exceptional ecological significance. Dramatic granite mountain spires, spectacular glaciers, and haunting winds draw tourists from around the world. The park is home to the guanaco, the Andean condor, the endangered huemul, and the elusive puma.
Come see for yourself
Book a trip to Torres del Paine by visiting our partner REI Adventures or calling (800) 622-2236.
Need more info? Check out these links:
Torres del Paine Trip Details
Itinerary
Price
Trip Report: 2010
Trip Report: 2009
Trip Report: 2008
