Bikepacking Patagonia - Day 2-3

Day 4 began with a cold, rainy ride out of Villa Santa Lucía. I started the day cycling alongside Zephirin, but mechanical issues eventually slowed him down. After waiting in La Junta, we crossed paths again before I made my way to Puyuhuapi. Arriving at my destination, I found the night was anything but restful—dogs barking and birds chirping kept me awake, despite the exhaustion from the day.

Day 5 brought more rain and one of the most grueling climbs of the trip so far. After 20 miles of warming up, I faced an insane 2,000+ foot climb over just 5 km. The gravel roads were treacherous, full of potholes and obstructions, demanding every ounce of focus to navigate. Weight distribution and bike handling were critical on this stretch.

The descent brought no relief—just a monsoon of rain, plummeting temperatures near freezing, and soaked gear that offered little protection. My body felt the toll of exhaustion and the cold as I pressed on to the small town of Villa Amengual, where I finally sought refuge for the night as the temperature dropped to 35°F.

Physically, I’m battered—windburned, sunburned, and bruised—but I’m determined to push forward. This journey is about more than just personal endurance. I’m riding in partnership with Dawgpatch Bandits, a nonprofit dedicated to promoting mental health and recovery through physical activity and outdoor challenges.