"Backpacking at End of the Earth " a Tierra del Fuego Travel Page by AKtravelers

Why go to Tierra del Fuego? Well, I saw one review that said that the only reason to come here was to leave and cruise to Antarctica. I disagree. If you are inclined to enjoy outdoor activities, Tierra del Fuego is a great place.
My cousin, his friend and I visited for six days in February 2005. We have to admit that what passes for "tourist sites" here are mediocre attractions seemingly designed to give the cruisers something to do while they're on land in Ushuaia. However, our four-day backpack was one of our best hiking experiences anywhere -- the scenary was spectacular, the terrain was challenging and the crowds were -- well, there were almost no people at all!

Our primary purpose in visiting Tierra del Fuego was to do the Sierra Valdivieso Circuit trek described in the Lonely Planet Guide "Trekking Patagonia". My cousin picked it because it was easily accessible from an airport (Ushuaia) and still provided great scenary and challenging terrain. I have attached a travelogue describing that 4-day jaunt for those interested in the details. As far as I can tell, my travelogue is now the only description of this hike on the internet (I can find no other).
Surrounding the hike, we had adequate time to explore Ushuaia. It is a nice town with a lot more activity than I expected. But, please don't come to Tierra del Fuego just to visit Ushuaia -- it is not a great tourist destination unto itself.

Not only shouldn't you come to see the sites, but you shouldn't visit Tierra del Fuego for the weather. To properly enjoy the island, you should go outdoors, but you should be dressed for inclement days. Rain gear is a must, as are non-cotton clothes of all types. If you stay warm, you will love it here! Tierra del Fuego is beautiful!