Indigenous to this region, the Puelche native Indian tribe considered obsidian to be a treasured volcanic mineral. They brought it from the Maule Lagoon in the high Andes peaks towards the lower valleys. They used these sharp stones as arrowheads and knife blades. Along the trails through the Melado Valley, they left hundreds of rock paintings as testimony of their way of life. The most impressive petroglyphs, and rock paintings, were found in a hidden Andean valley at the foothill of the massive Toro mountain glacier. This huge granite mountain block is the only rocky exception in the midst of a range of volcanoes. Hiking to the Gloria Lagoon or crossing the Paso Brisca to the Bellotos Reserve is another possibility in this area; it ends up at the Melado Lodge. If you plan to go there in midsummer, make sure you take adequate protection to resist extreme temperatures and extensive sun exposure.
Day 1: Lamalodge - Casa Lata, Riding time 6 h
Starting at the Lamalodge follow the Melado River. Later you'll cross the river taking the Latigo Bridge to the western shore and continue upstream. It is awfully difficult to find the offshoot of the Toro Estuary without help from an experienced guide. The creek can be easily crossed on horseback, however. On the opposite side, follow a clearly recognizable path uphill, a steep slope to the upper valley area. You'll spend the night at an arriero campsite, Casa Lata (Tin House). On warm days, enjoy a refreshing bath in the cool mountain creek.
Day 2: Rock paintings
It is best to hike to see the rock paintings on the Northern shore of the Toro Estuary. These famous native paintings illustrate a puma - the location and its people are named after them, and are also known as the "Hombre Jaguar", Jaguar Men. To date, this location has scarcely been analyzed or documented by scientists. The valley granite rocks are extensively adorned with hundreds of rock paintings, a sight to see.
Day 3: Casa Lata - Lamalodge, Riding time 6 h
If you don't want to continue on the journey to the heavenly Gloria Lagoon, you may return on the same route towards Lamalodge. If you don't have a vehicle, make sure you've organized a transfer back to Talca before. Or, stay another day and ride to the Curillinque Bridge on the Melado River, you can later take the daily early morning public transport back.
