La Hoya, meaning bowl in Castillano (Argentine Spanish), is Esquel’s activity central for all mountain excursions. It is located 13 kilometers up canyon from the city. The majority of ski descents face south, helping it to offer quality, cold snow long after a storm (remember the southern hemisphere north and south are opposite of North America). The ski season typically lasts from June to October, provided there is snow. The terrain encompasses 60 hectares (142 acres) and 22 kilometers (13 miles) of on-piste ski slopes. The mountain encompasses 750 vertical meters (2460 vertical feet) of skiable terrain. There are also out-of-bounds ski lines that end up at the road a short walk from the base of the ski area.