These high valleys unfold into impressive landscapes, in which austere craggy mountains and snow-capped peaks look down on verdant valleys and majestic waterways. The canyon of the Río Jáchal and its rocks varying from brown to charcoal grey precede the blue waters of the Cuesta del Viento and Rodeo oasis. The road then rises to join the valley of the Río San Juan and Calingasta. It is the start of a long streak of green that culminates beneath the poplars of Barreal.