The mighty Palena extends from the pampas all the way to the Pacific, providing a fascinating way of exploring the hugely contrasting environments of Patagonia. it is navigable along its whole length, running past Alto Palena, La Junta, and Raul marin Balmaceda. The river was in 2010 declared a freshwater reserve, home to some outstanding salmon. The section from La Junta to Raul Marin was declared in 2009 a Heritage Route by the Ministry of National Properties. Popular activities here include white-water rafting, kayaking and canoeing, as well as fishing.