Find Your Next Trail

Calabaceñas

Location: San Pedro Garza Garcia, Nuevo Leon, Mexico

Distance: 5 km
Elevation: 577 m
Time: 3 h
Difficulty: moderate

Route map: View on Wikiloc

Overview

This route begins in the Olinalá area and climbs through dense forest and steep terrain to the mesa known as Calabaceñas (~1,733 m). The path is relatively direct and gains over 500 m in under 1.5 km one way, meaning it’s steep and efficient. After reaching the destination viewpoint, you descend the same way you came back to the trailhead. Note that you will not be allowed to enter the private neighborhood and access the trailhead if you don’t know someone who lives there that can let you in.

Getting there

From Colonia Bosques de San Ángel / Olinalá, navigate to Calle Santander and park at the end where the trailhead begins. The entrance is beside a private-access section of the neighbourhood; early arrival and respecting local parking/access rules is recommended.

Route summary

Starting at the trailhead you ascend via a steep path marked with blue ribbons through forest and rock. The incline remains high until you reach the top mesa of Calabaceñas, where you’ll find a viewpoint and rest area. Then you return by retracing your steps back down to the trailhead.

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Cañón de la Virgen

Location: Santiago, Nuevo Leon, Mexico

Distance: 11.48 km
Elevation: 360 m
Time: 5.5 h
Difficulty: moderate

Route map: View on Wikiloc

Overview

The Cañón de la Virgen route begins from the Valle Alto area and works its way through the canyon of the Río until you reach a dramatic waterfall and old mine around 1,050 m altitude. The trail shifts from more typical forest path to boulder-hopping in the river bed, with some scrambling and tricky footing. It feels semi-remote, with lush vegetation and a mix of natural challenge and reward. The circular format returns you back via a loop around the canyon.

Getting there

From Monterrey or surrounding area, drive toward Valle Alto in Nuevo León. Park in the designated public park near the bridge in the Sierra Alta/Valle Alto region (ensure you’re parked legally and not blocking residential access). The trail begins at a white bridge opposite a fraccionamiento and follows the riverbed and canyon upward. There’s a park nearby with lots of free, safe parking.

Route summary

Start at the parking/bridge area, follow a trail through light forest and then enter the canyon riverbed. Here you’ll navigate large boulders, mossy rocks, and sections where the trail may be unclear — keep an eye for markings. There may be some men carrying machetes posing as guards. They are fakes. Stick to the riverbed to avoid them. Around the halfway point you’ll come across a small mine entrance and further up the canyon you reach the waterfall. From the waterfall, the loop takes you out of the riverbed and back via ridges or paths down toward the starting zone. The descent calls for careful footing especially on wet rock and fallen leaves.

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Cascada del Chipitín

Location: Potrero Redondo, Santiago, Nuevo León, Mexico

Distance: 4.4 km
Elevation: 300 m
Time: 2.5 h
Difficulty: easy

Route map: View on Wikiloc

Overview

This trail leads into a dramatic canyon in the Sierra Madre Oriental, ending at a spectacular waterfall (Cascada del Chipitín) that drops into a clear pool. The trail is short but steep in parts, and because of the terrain and vehicle access it feels more rugged than the distance suggests. Access requires a dirt-road approach and ends in the lush canyon shade.

Getting there

From Monterrey head south toward El Cercado, then turn toward Las Adjuntas and continue through Potrero Redondo via rough terracería roads (4×4 recommended). Park at Potrero Redondo; from there follow the entry trail, pay the small fee, and proceed into the canyon toward the waterfall.

Route summary

Start at the trailhead near Potrero Redondo, descending into the canyon (or vice-versa depending on your direction). The trail is clearly defined but includes steep, uneven terrain. In the canyon you’ll pass large boulders, rock formations, and finally arrive at the second-to-none waterfall and pool. Return by the same route, prepared for the uphill leg.

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Cascada el Salto

Location: Cinega de Gonzalez, Nuevo Leon, Mexico

Distance: 5.71 km
Elevation: 1035 m
Time: 7 h
Difficulty: easy

Route map: View on Wikiloc

Overview

Walk through and along the river until you reach the incredible el Salto waterfall. Take a dip in the giant pool, but be careful because there is a strong current which can be dangerous. Note that water is not always present. It is best to go after heavy rainfall.

Getting there

From Santiago, Nuevo León, locate the trailhead near the El Salto area (for example around Ciénega de González). Park legally, then begin the climb early. Ensure your vehicle is suitable for mountainous roads and possibly narrow roads.

Route summary

Follow the riverbed and later a trail horizontally until you reach the final section. Here you will descend until you find the waterfall.

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Cascada Lamadrid

Location: Lamadrid, Coahuila, Mexico

Distance: 25 km
Elevation: 284 m
Time: 11 h
Difficulty: moderate

Route map: View on Wikiloc

Overview

You will walk multiple hours through a canyon in the middle of the desert until you finally reach a crazy, secret oasis. Along the way you will probably see multiple herds of cows. There is almost no elevation gain, but the route is very long.

Getting there

Drive to Lamadrid in Coahuila de Zaragoza, park in the town or at the indicated trailhead for route. Start early, this is a long route.

Route summary

From the trailhead you hike through rural/forest terrain toward Cascada LaMadrid, gaining modest elevation. Along the way you’ll encounter mixed surface conditions—dirt roads, forest paths, possibly some stream crossings.

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Cerro el Musgo

Location: San Juan de los Dolores, Coahuila, Mexico

Distance: 9.7 km
Elevation: 940 m
Time: 5.5 h
Difficulty: moderate

Route map: View on Wikiloc

Overview

The route to El Musgo winds through pine and fir forest high in the Sierra de Arteaga. Starting from the vicinity of San Juan de los Dolores, it gradually ascends (or sometimes steeply) into mixed terrain, hitting an altitude of ~3,200 m.

It features lush moss (hence the name), forested sections, prairies of wildflowers in late summer, and broad views of the surrounding valleys.

Though some routes claim “sencilla” (easy) status, the elevation gain and altitude demand respect.

Getting there

Begin by driving toward San Juan de los Dolores in the Sierra de Arteaga region. From the town, follow the paved road until it transitions into a dirt/terracería section. Depending on your vehicle, you may be able to get close to the main clearing where most hikers start, or you may need to park earlier and walk a few extra kilometers. Trail access is straightforward once you’re on the dirt road, and the starting area is marked by open forest and a noticeable clearing.

Route summary

The route starts gently along a dirt road before shifting into a steady uphill trail beneath tall pines. Forest gives way to open grasslands and mossy patches as you climb. Midway through the hike, you’ll reach an open clearing that serves as a visual landmark before the steeper, more sustained ascent begins. The final push includes loose dirt and some sharper gradients, eventually leading you to a broad, panoramic summit ridge. You descend the same way, keeping an eye on footing through the steeper sections.

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Cumbre La Viga

Location: Los Lirios, Coahuila, Mexico

Distance: 9.21 km
Elevation: 1238 m
Time: 6 h
Difficulty: moderate

Route map: View on Wikiloc

Overview

This route conquers Cerro de la Viga (Cerro San Rafael) from a trailhead near the little church at Los Lirios, Arteaga. You’ll climb over 1,200 m in under 10 km, gaining serious altitude (max ~3,700 m). The vegetation transitions from dense pines into high-altitude ridgeline terrain, offering sweeping vistas of the Sierra Madre Oriental. It’s classified as difficult due to both elevation and technical terrain.
This is a route built for strong hikers who want a challenge and the reward of being high above everything.

Getting there

Drive from Monterrey-Saltillo toward Arteaga/Los Lirios. Take the turn-off for the “Iglesia de La Viga” where you’ll find a parking area. From there the trail begins. The access road is manageable but arriving early is advised to start the hike in good light.

Route summary

The trail starts from the church at Los Lirios, climbing steeply almost immediately. The slope remains sustained and gets steeper as you rise into higher forest. After passing through dense tree cover you emerge to more open ridges and near the summit the terrain becomes exposed. You’ll reach close to 3,700 m at the top ridge. The route is circular, or you can descend the same way you came up. Downhill requires focus on footing.

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El Cielito

Location: Santiago, Nuevo Leon, Mexico

Distance: 14 km
Elevation: 448 m
Time: 5 h
Difficulty: easy

Route map: View on Wikiloc

Overview

El Cielito starts with a steep climb of roughly 400 m in under a kilometer, reaching a ridge intersection, then descends into a scenic canyon full of large boulders, rock chaos, and occasional waterfalls/pozas. The route is less travelled, feels remote yet accessible, and offers a change of scenery from typical metropolitan hikes — the rock chaos and canyon channel make it interesting, especially in rainy season when the water features are active.

Getting there

From the Santiago, Nuevo León region near Río Econdido, follow dirt/forest access roads to the trailhead. Park your vehicle off the main road without blocking access. The entrance begins with a well-marked trail that climbs upward to a ridge. After reaching the canyon section you’ll follow the rough terrain among boulders and limited trail markings. Aim to arrive early and ensure your vehicle is parked legally and safely.

Route summary

The hike begins with a vigorous uphill section (~900 m) climbing about 400 m to a ridge intersection of multiple tracks. From there you descend into the canyon, entering a boulder-strewn rock-chaos zone and eventually reaching a shallow stream and rock pool (poza). Water is only reliably present after significant rain. The terrain through the canyon demands care on footing and awareness of route direction. Return along the same route. If you are adventurous, you can go even deeper into the canyon beyond the waterfalls.

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La Eme

Location: Parque Ecológico Chipinque, Monterrey, Mexico

Distance: 16.28 km
Elevation: 939 m
Time: 8 h
Difficulty: hard

Route map: View on Wikiloc

Overview

La Eme is a serious ascent within the Parque Ecológico Chipinque area—starting in the high slopes of Cerro de Chipinque and climbing roughly 939 m up to a summit above 2,000 m. You’ll start reflecting on life, endure steep sections, and emerge onto impressive ridge lines with sweeping panoramas of Monterrey and the Sierra Madre Oriental. The return is via the same route back down (since you climb up and then come back the same way).

Getting there

Drive up to the entrance of Parque Ecológico Chipinque in San Pedro Garza García (Nuevo León). Park at the official lot, enter the park early, pay any required fee or register (the route notes say you need authorization and a helmet). Then begin your trail from the marked trailhead within the park. Since you’ll be climbing significant gain, plan to start early to beat heat and ensure daylight.

Route summary

Begin from the trailhead inside the park, ascending through forested slopes and ridges. As you climb, the path becomes steep and you’ll transition into rocky sections, possibly exposed ridge segments. Around ~2,000 m you hit summit terrain with broad views of Monterrey and the surrounding mountains. After enjoying the view, you descend the same way you came up—watch your footing, respect the slope fatigue, and take breaks as needed.

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La Rayita

Location: Parque Ecológico la Huasteca, Monterrey, Mexico

Distance: 4 km
Elevation: 400 m
Time: 3.5 h
Difficulty: easy

Route map: View on Wikiloc

Overview

This route will take you up a small mountain that sits at the entrance to Parque Ecológico la Huasteca, located in Santa Catarina, Nuevo Leon, Mexico. The only really difficult thing on this route is that there are parts with loose rock. Besides this, it is a very chill route.

Getting there

Drive into Parque Ecológico La Huasteca via Santa Catarina. Park near the first designated lot after entering the park. From there, follow the trail towards the “V” of La Rayita, keeping to the marked path up the ridge. Early start is advised given sun exposure and technical terrain.

Route summary

From the trailhead you follow a defined path before entering the steep chorreadero section. After the chorreadero the route transitions onto a crest with panoramic views and some exposure. You continue up the ridge until you reach the summit of Pico 22. Return follows exactly the same way back down to your car.

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Mirador Teleférico

Location: Cerro de la Silla, Monterrey, Mexico

Distance: 4.88 km
Elevation: 500 m
Time: 3.9 h
Difficulty: easy

Route map: View on Wikiloc

Overview

This trail starts from the Bosques de la Pastora / Colonia La Pastora area and climbs continuously up Cerro de la Silla to the mirador at the old Teleférico station (~1,665 m). The terrain is relatively defined and accessible, mostly a steep but clear path.

Getting there

Park near the entrance of Colonia La Pastora in Guadalupe/Monterrey municipality. Begin walking from the trailhead where the road ends and the official pedestrian access begins. Because the ascent is significant, plan for an early start to have full daylight for ascent and descent. However, the views at dawn and dusk are incredible. Just be careful if you will be traversing the route in the dark and plan accordingly.

Route summary

From the trailhead you climb steadily through the urban-forest fringe, then through steeper mountain trail segments until reaching the platform of the old teleférico and the viewpoint area. After enjoying the view, descend back via the same path to your starting point.

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Pico Alfa

Location: Cerro de las Mitras, Monterrey, Mexico

Distance: 14 km
Elevation: 1200 m
Time: 9.6 h
Difficulty: hard

Route map: View on Wikiloc

Overview

This route is pretty straightforward if you follow the attached Wikiloc route. When I did Pico Alfa, we ascended via a different route which took us past some caves and mines. They were pretty cool, but not worth the time and effort. I suggest sticking to the Wikiloc provided here. It is a steep climb, and a the environment is harsh. Pack accordingly. Long pants are highly recommended if you don’t want your legs to get cut up.

Getting there

Park near the foothills of Cerro de las Mitras in the Casa Blanca / Dinastía / Cumbres Elite area. From the parking area you begin the ascent on the trailhead that climbs up the mountain. An early start is recommended given the steep climb and elevation gain.

Route summary

From the trailhead you proceed upward through forest, then into sections of loose rock and steeper slopes. The final push reaches the summit ridge of Pico Alfa. After enjoying the view, you descend by the same route you climbed.

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Pico Antena

Location: Cerro de la Silla, Monterrey, Mexico

Distance: 12.3 km
Elevation: 1230 m
Time: 6 h
Difficulty: moderate

Route map: View on Wikiloc

Overview

This route up to Pico Antena climbs the southern flank of Cerro de la Silla starting from the Bosques de la Pastora area. The trail rises steadily, mostly paved or cemented path in many sections, with a constant steep incline. The finish line is the summit-antenna structure at ~1,789 m elevation, giving sweeping views over the city and surrounding peaks. It’s less technical than some crest routes, but don’t be fooled—physical demand is high.

Getting there

Park in Bosques de la Pastora / Colonia La Pastora in Guadalupe or Monterrey fringe. Walk through the access from the residential gate to the trailhead. Because the route is popular, it’s wise to start early to secure parking and beat the heat.

Route summary

The climb begins at the trailhead, moves steadily upward on a cemented or well-worn path through vegetation, interspersed with short flat spots. Mid-route you’ll pass the Teleférico platform ruins, a small shrine/mirador at “La Virgen”, and a viewpoint at “Los 10 Mandamientos.” The final stretch rises sharply toward the summit antenna structure. Once at the top, admire the views; the descent follows the same path backward—focus on your knees and footing as you return.

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Pico Cuauhtémoc

Location: Cerro de las Mitras, Monterrey, Mexico

Distance: 13.16 km
Elevation: 1635 m
Time: 9 h
Difficulty: hard

Route map: View on Wikiloc

Overview

The route begins in the foothills of Cumbres Elite and ascends through the terrain of Cerro de las Mitras, eventually reaching the summit of Pico Cuauhtémoc (~2,050 m). Along the way you’ll navigate rock slabs, narrow crests, old mining trail sections and exposed ridges. After topping out, you return the same way you came back to the trailhead.

Getting there

Park in the Cumbres Elite area near Avenida Pedro Infante. From the neighbourhood trailhead you begin the ascent up the mountain. Because of the long climb and elevation gain, start early and ensure you’re ready for a full day.

Route summary

The hike climbs from the trailhead through forest and rock features, passing significant landmarks like the “Paso de las Bicicletas” and mine-trail sections. After cresting the ridge, you reach the summit of Pico Cuauhtémoc with panoramic views. The descent retraces the same path back to the trailhead.

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Pico K2

Location: Santiago, Nuevo Leon, Mexico

Distance: 16 km
Elevation: 1219 m
Time: 10 h
Difficulty: hard

Route map: View on Wikiloc

Overview

The route to Pico K2 begins in the Valle Alto region and traverses el Cañon de la Virgen, ascending through mixed terrain of forest, creek crossings and rock fields. At approximately 1,650–1,800 m elevation, the route reaches the summit crest of Pico K2, offering expansive views of the surrounding Sierra Madre Orienta and Valle Alto. The return is via the same path back to your starting point.

Getting there

Drive to Valle Alto, Nuevo León and locate the trailhead near the canyon of La Virgen (often reached from the bridge/arroyo area). Park in a safe legal spot, begin the trail from the canyon entrance, and proceed upward. A sturdy vehicle and early start are recommended.

Route summary

The first portion is relatively moderate: you follow or flank the canyon, cross the arroyo multiple times, and move through forest and rock debris. About halfway, the trail steepens significantly; the final ascent navigates loose terrain, steeper inclines and an exposed ridge section to the summit. After reaching Pico K2, retrace your steps down the same way to return to the trailhead.

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Pico Norte

Location: Cerro de la Silla, Monterrey, Mexico

Distance: 10.9 km
Elevation: 1426 m
Time: 8 h
Difficulty: moderate

Route map: View on Wikiloc

Overview

This is a serious route: climbing to the highest point of Cerro de la Silla (Pico Norte) via the steep and narrow “Ruta de los Elefantes.” The terrain starts fairly typical but soon becomes steep, rocky, with a sharp incline nearing the summit (~1,821 m). You’ll traverse forested slopes, rock slabs, and exposed ridges. The route demands good physical condition, focus, and endurance. Great reward at the top with panoramic city views.

Getting there

Start from the Bosques de la Pastora / Colonia La Pastora zone (Guadalupe/Monterrey). Park in the accessible street area early (before many hikers). Begin on the trail that leads toward the teleférico/antenna zone, then branch off at the marked deviation to the Ruta de los Elefantes. Ensure you bring water, early start, and a method to track your route (GPX/offline map) as markings get less obvious higher up.

Route summary

The hike begins on the standard path toward the antenna station, then you take a clear right turn into the Elefantes ridge. After initial forest trail you’ll hit narrow, steep rock and boulder fields — this is the “Pass of the Elephants.” As you ascend, view opens gradually, terrain becomes exposed, slope steepens. The final section climbs toward the summit (~1,821 m) of Pico Norte. Descend the same route or alternate if you’re experienced. Footing on the descent demands caution.

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Pico Perico

Location: Monterrey, Mexico

Distance: 11.24 km
Elevation: 1500 m
Time: 8 h
Difficulty: hard

Route map: View on Wikiloc

Overview

Pico Perico is one of the classic spines of Cerro de las Mitras — a steady, switchback-style climb that delivers quick elevation and big views over Monterrey. The trail is defined, rocky in stretches, and exposed to the sun almost the entire way, so expect heat and a good amount of leg burn. Once you hit the upper ridge, the route opens up into panoramic views of Cumbres Elite and the Mitras skyline. It’s a rewarding mid-difficulty climb that feels adventurous without crossing into full mountaineering territory.

Getting there

The route starts from the Cumbres Elite area near Avenida Pedro Infante. Parking is roadside — most hikers leave their car along the wide shoulder near the unofficial trail access. From there, follow the dirt path that rises steeply toward the ridgeline. There are no signs, so keep your GPS handy; the beginning feels like it could lead anywhere until the trail consolidates. No 4×4 required — any regular car can reach the start.

Route summary

The trail begins with a clear dirt path that climbs steadily toward the lower slopes of Cerro de las Mitras. After the first 20–30 minutes, the incline sharpens and becomes a consistent uphill grind with rocky footing and loose gravel in sections. The middle portion follows a defined spine up the mountain, offering early views of Cumbres Elite as the city drops behind you. Near the final stretch, the path narrows slightly and gets steeper before reaching the rounded summit of Pico Perico, where Monterrey opens up in every direction. The descent follows the exact same route back down, with loose terrain requiring careful footing.

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Pico Piloto

Location: Cerro de las Mitras, Monterrey, Mexico

Distance: 10 km
Elevation: 1300 m
Time: 8.5 h
Difficulty: hard

Route map: View on Wikiloc

Overview

This route begins in the Cumbres Elite neighborhood and climbs through old mining switchbacks and ridgelines up to Pico Piloto, gaining significant elevation and traversing exposed sections. After reaching the summit outlook, you descend back the same way, passing through Puerto del Aire and the Entrada Cueva Mitras features. The mix of forest, rock, old mining infrastructure and ridge passages makes it technical, scenic, and substantial.

Getting there

Park in Cumbres Elite (via Avenida Pedro Infante or nearby access). From the trailhead you follow the miner-trail ascent toward Pico Piloto. Early start recommended because of the long climb and exposure. Ensure vehicle access is safe for the starting point.

Route summary

From the trailhead you head upward along forested switchbacks and mining route remains, reaching a ridge section with panoramic views. The final push climbs to Pico Piloto. At the summit, you turn and retrace your route downward, passing through Puerto del Aire and Entrada Cueva Mitras on the way back to the start.

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Pico Piquín

Location: Cerro de las Mitras, Monterrey, Mexico

Distance: 9.4 km
Elevation: 533 m
Time: 2.5 h
Difficulty: easy

Route map: View on Wikiloc

Overview

The route to Pico Piquín begins in the Cumbres Elite/Pedro Infante area and gains over 500 m in elevation. The path winds steadily upward through vegetation, rock sections and past vantage points, culminating at the Pico Piquín outlook. After reaching the viewpoint, you descend the same path back down. At the top, there is an optional climb/scramble to get to an even higher viewing point.

Getting there

Park in the Cumbres Elite neighbourhood (via Avenida Pedro Infante). From the parking area follow the trailhead that climbs into Cerro de las Mitras. Early start recommended to avoid afternoon heat and secure parking.

Route summary

The hike ascends from the neighborhood into the mountain, starting on a forest-trail then progressively climbing through rockier terrain toward Pico Piquín. Once at the summit outlook you pause for views. The return follows the same way you came down, winding back to your starting point.

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Pico Pirámide

Location: Cerro de las Mitras, Monterrey, Mexico

Distance: 9.21 km
Elevation: 1200 m
Time: 7.7 h
Difficulty: hard

Route map: View on Wikiloc

Overview

Pico Pirámide is a sharp, dramatic summit perched on the Cerro de las Mitras ridge. The route delivers steep climbing, chain-assisted scrambles, and a narrow ridge that gives you those “wow” views and “why am I like this?” feelings at the same time. Terrain is rugged, shade is minimal, and exposure is real, but the summit payoff over Monterrey is unmatched. This is one of the most technical and exciting peaks in the Mitras chain.

Getting there

The trail begins in the Cumbres Elite area of Monterrey. Park near the neighborhood access roads where hikers commonly start—most people leave their car along the residential street that leads up toward the base of Mitras. From the parked area, follow the established path used for Pico Perico; the first section is shared. Continue uphill until you reach the “Puerto” (a saddle), where the route splits—take the right-hand path toward Pico Pirámide. Expect a mix of dirt, rock, and old mining infrastructure, including a dark mine segment where a headlamp is useful.

Route summary

Shared Approach: Start on the same trail used for Pico Perico—steep dirt and rock track with early elevation gain.

The Puerto: Reach the saddle where the Perico and Pirámide routes diverge. Take the right turn.

Small Scrambles: Several chain-assisted “mini climbs,” roughly 10m, 4m, and 3m high. Solid scrambling required.

Mine Section: A short, unlit mine tunnel appears on this route—bring a light.

The Ridge: Narrow, exposed crest leading toward the summit. Incredible views, but the drop-offs mean you need sure footing.

Summit: A sharp, triangular peak with panoramic city-and-mountains scenery. Return the same way.

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Pico Sur

Location: Cerro de la Silla, Monterrey, Mexico

Distance: 10 km
Elevation: 1310 m
Time: 7 h
Difficulty: hard

Route map: View on Wikiloc

Overview

This route climbs the southern peak of Cerro de la Silla (Pico Sur) via the San Ángel corridor. Expect a serious, technical ascent that mixes steep terrain, exposed rock faces, and ropes/chains in parts. The trail begins in the La Presa/San Ángel zone, rises rapidly, and finishes atop Pico Sur with sweeping views of the city and surrounding mountains. Not for beginners — you’ll need strength, sure footing, and comfort with exposure.

Getting there

Start at the end of Calle Valle Verde in Colonia San Ángel (or nearby access point) in Monterrey/La Presa. From there, the trail heads up the mountain. Be mindful of the early urban stretch, park safely, and begin as early as possible. The route is direct but steep and technical. If possible, don’t park your car in San Angel. The neighborhood is very unsafe. Keep your wits about you while walking through there.

Route summary

The climb kicks off with a well-marked but steep trail through shrub and rock. After initial push you encounter “El Espejo” (a polished rock slab with ropes for support) and the “Paso de los Arrepentidos” (a highly exposed chimney section with chains). After these technical segments, you reach the summit ridge of Pico Sur. Navigation slows on descent — either return the same way or continue via an alternate descent (if you’re equipped and experienced). Your main challenge: terrain, exposure, rapid elevation gain.

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Pico UDEM

Location: San Pedro Garza Garcia, Nuevo Leon, Mexico

Distance: 12 km
Elevation: 940 m
Time: 6.5 h
Difficulty: moderate

Route map: View on Wikiloc

Overview

This route begins near the helipad/“Casa Verde” area and ascends sharply through canyon‐style terrain, loose rock fields (chorreaderos) and steep slopes until reaching a 360° viewpoint with sweeping vistas of the Parque Nacional Cumbres de Monterrey, the Huasteca and surrounding peaks. While the early sections are moderate, the final push is steep, technical, and demands focus and good gear. Not for simple strolls — this climb asks you to earn the view.

Getting there

Start at the helipad or Casa Verde area off Altavista / Prados de la Sierra in San Pedro Garza García. Park in the designated area and begin the trail near the helipad. Follow the trail markers/listons (purple, blue) through the canyon and up the ridge. Vehicle access is possible via local roads; parking is available though early arrival is recommended.

Route summary

The hike begins on a clearly marked trail from the helipad, climbing gently at first through canyon terrain. As you ascend, the trail becomes steeper, you’ll pass stone scree (chorreaderos) sections where footing is loose and slippery, and you’ll face a sustained incline in the final segment. On reaching the ridge and summit the reward is panoramic: views over the Sierra Madre, Mitras, Huasteca. Descent follows the same path — caution required on slick down‐segments and intersections where you could take a wrong fork.

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Potrero de Abrego

Location: San Juan de las Boquillas, Nuevo Leon, Mexico

Distance: 15 km
Elevation: 1563 m
Time: 9 h
Difficulty: moderate

Route map: View on Wikiloc

Overview

This route climbs from the starting area in Potrero de Ábrego and gains over 1,200 meters in elevation. The terrain includes forested slopes, steep inclines, and ridge sections with expansive views as you approach the summit zone (~3,100 m). After reaching the high point, you descend the same way you came back to the trailhead. There are some secret caves near the top. They are very hard to find, but they are huge and super cool to explore.

Getting there

Drive to the access point in Potrero de Ábrego, Nuevo León. From the parking area start the trailhead marked for the ascent. Because this is a long climb with significant gain, begin early and ensure your vehicle access is appropriate for mountain road conditions.

Route summary

Start from the trailhead at Potrero de Ábrego and proceed upward along forest trails. The terrain steadily steepens, transitioning through mixed vegetation to higher altitude ridges. The final push leads toward the summit area with panoramic views over the Sierra Madre Oriental. After arriving at the summit zone, retrace your steps and descend the same path back to your starting point.

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Ruta del Minero

Location: Cerro de las Mitras, Monterrey, Mexico

Distance: 17.32 km
Elevation: 850 m
Time: 8 h
Difficulty: hard

Route map: View on Wikiloc

Overview

This route starts in the foothills of Cerro de las Mitras and climbs through the historic “Ruta del Minero,” an old mining access that passes cave-like sections, rock scrambles and significant elevation.

Getting there

Drive to the Cumbres Elite area in Nuevo León, park at the trailhead near the mining-route access. Register your hike if required, set off early. Make sure your vehicle access is suitable for the mountain roads. Begin the ascent via the miner trail entrance.

Route summary

From the trailhead you climb steadily through forest until you reach the mine tunnel sections. You then traverse the miner trail, including ladders/steps and exposed rock ascents.

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Salkantay Trek

Location: Cusco Region, Peru

Distance: 75 km
Elevation: 3000 m
Time: 20 h
Difficulty: hard

Route map: View on Wikiloc

Overview

The Salkantay Trek is one of Peru’s iconic alternatives to the Inca Trail — a multi-day adventure that crosses massive valleys, glacial lakes, cloud forest, and the towering presence of Nevado Salkantay. The route begins in Soraypampa, climbs toward the glacial Humantay Lake area, and pushes over the 4,630-meter Salkantay Pass before descending into warmer jungle terrain and following the river valley all the way toward Aguas Calientes. This trek is known for big altitude, dramatic scenery, and a constant change of ecosystems. It’s long, challenging, and unbelievably beautiful.

Getting there

The journey begins in Cusco, where hikers travel by van or bus to Mollepata and then continue to Soraypampa, the official starting area for most Salkantay routes. Some hikers spend the night at Soraypampa to acclimatize before starting. The return ends in Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu, where trains and buses take you back to Cusco. Make sure to arrange transportation to the trail start in advance if you’re not going with a guide.

Route summary

The trek starts with a steady climb through wide Andean valleys before the terrain steepens toward the glacial Humantay Lake area. The next major challenge is the ascent to Salkantay Pass at 4,630 m — thin air, rocky terrain, and cold temperatures. After crossing the pass, the trail descends dramatically into cloud forest, trading snow-capped giants for waterfalls, rivers, and humid jungle. Later days follow dirt roads, river paths, and forest trails leading to Lucmabamba and eventually to Hidroeléctrica. From there, a final walk along the railway tracks leads into Aguas Calientes. The trek combines high-altitude exposure with long daily distances.

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Sierra de la Marta

Location: Mesa de las Tables, Coahuila, Mexico

Distance: 13.26 km
Elevation: 813 m
Time: 7.0 h
Difficulty: moderate

Route map: View on Wikiloc

Overview

This circular hike in the Sierra de la Marta takes you up into remote terrain near Rancho La Carolina, gaining over 800 meters of elevation on a ~13 km route. You’ll start from a lower point (~2,834 m) and climb to around 3,582 m at the highest point, passing through mixed forest and open ridges. The effort is moderate in technical difficulty but significant in altitude and gain—expect wide views, refreshing mountain air, and a sense of solitude.

Getting there

Begin at Rancho La Carolina (or nearby access point) in Coahuila. Drive until the trailhead near the forested foothills of Sierra de la Marta. The route is marked as circular in the stats, but many hikers do the ascent and descent on the same path. Ensure your vehicle can handle mountain roads, and arrive early to avoid afternoon weather changes.

Route summary

You start ascending through pine and fir forests from the trailhead, gaining elevation fairly steadily. Mid-way you’ll pass clearings and vantage points that hint at the summit view. The final push rises to about 3,582 m, where the terrain opens up and you’re rewarded with broad panoramas of the Sierra. The descent returns via the same route, with caution advised on steeper downhill sections.

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Sillalogia

Location: Cerro de la Silla, Monterrey, Mexico

Distance: 13 km
Elevation: 1260 m
Time: 8.5 h
Difficulty: hard

Route map: View on Wikiloc

Overview

On this route you will climb all 4 peaks of the iconic Cerro de la Silla (Pico Antena, Pico Norte, Pico Sur, and Loma de la Virgen). This is a big physical and mental challenge. Only attempt this if you are 100% locked in.

Getting there

Begin from the Bosques de la Pastora / La Pastora access area in Guadalupe. Park in the designated public zones and walk to the controlled gate where the trail begins. The ascent leads toward the teleférico platform. For the descent through San Ángel, you finish near the neighborhood access of Colonia San Ángel, where you can arrange pickup or walk out to the street.

Route summary

Start by climbing the long, steep path toward the teleférico, passing viewpoints and rest areas along the ascent. The trail increases in incline as you approach the platform. After reaching the top, cross horizontally to Pico Norte and Pico Sur. You will have to go down and come back up to hit each peak. The descent toward San Ángel begins on steeper, looser terrain with several technical sections requiring careful footing. The trail eventually levels out as you reach the neighborhood at the base.

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