Off the Map Chile Adventure: The Volcano

One of the first hikes we did was at Parque Nacional Villarica. We live off the road to the park and it was just a short drive to the trail head, albeit on a crazy bumpy dirt road. The volcano itself is impressive. Most times when it is not shrouded in clouds, you can see smoke coming out ot the crater. Not being used to living next to a volcano, I often forget about it, focusing instead on where I place my feet on the uneven dirt and coblestone streets and sidewalks. But then occasionally I look up and there it is! I always feel a sense of shock. What is this massive snow covered thing doing here?

We also did a tour of some lava caves that were created during one of Villarica's eruptions. Fascinating! The cave went on for at least 3/4 of a mile and it hasn't even been completely explored yet. It is THE most active volcano in all of South America, and Chile alone has 2000 volcanoes! It last erupted in 1998. Before that it was 1960, 1971, and 1984. Well according to my mathematically minded son it is about time again! Luckily now with modern instruments we are assured that the volcano will give us a least a month's notice before she blows. I'll tell you though, after that Pucon traffic we won't be waiting around to see it!