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Hiking in El Yunque

What to take on a hike.

Map below shows the major hiking trails on the north side. The extended hiking trails (the ones that last all day) are on the large fold-out National Geographic Map sold at the Ranger Station (Palo Colorado Picnic area) at the top of the mountain on highway 191. The LaCoca Trail (the trail immediately adjacent to LaCoca Falls on map) extends both to the left and right--it does not dead end as shown. That trail is very rough and will last all day. Do not get off trail. If trail disappears--go back.

hikingmap.jpg

What to take on a hike

When hiking in and around El Yunque, always use a walking stick to act as a third leg. This will keep you from falling as you go down hill and in muddy areas.

A thin lightweight rain coat if you don't like getting wet. Most don't mind if they get rained on.

Camera and a baggie for your camera so it doesn't get wet during a rain.

Wear swimming suit under clothes if you want to swim--or just jump in with your clothes on.

Bug spray, anti-itch cream, and a small tube of first aid cream.



On the south side, start hiking where the road (191) stops at the bridge and gate. Hiking will be a wide, level paved road--you can push a wheel chair on it. The road/trail will stop at a large number of canopy type huts (15 minutes in) as you cross a second bridge--this is a rest station. For the more adventurous hiker, note there is a rough trail to the right of the second bridge as you cross the bridge. This is an unofficial trail that many hikers take and will last for several hours. Follow the handrail to the dam below. Then follow the large aquaduct to the left for many miles. When you find a bridge over a gorge the trail is to the left and below the bridge and comes up on the other side. This takes you to a very large dam--cross over via the boardwalk. Follow trail to the concrete area of another dam. Look up and you will see a chained off ladder. Climb up concrete and go into the side of the ladder. Climb ladder and rest under trees up on top. In front of you will be a very steep wet, smooth rock wall. IF you can climb wall (very, very dangerous--do not climb wall if it looks like rain) there is a pool to swim in below a 100 foot waterfall on top). Do not touch any plant that has spines or needles on it.

If you are staying at the Casa Cubuy bed and breakfast, there are hiking trails behind it just for the customers.