Piren Forest

The forests east of Hornopirén cover steep valleys where the southern Andes meet the fjords of Chile. Rain sustains evergreen trees, including alerce, coihue and tepa, while glaciers and snowfields occupy higher ground. Rivers descend from the mountains towards inlets of the Pacific. The contrast between dense forest, exposed summits and narrow arms of the sea gives this part of the cordillera its rugged character.