Whether you are seeking breathtaking views, a soul-finding experience, or simply an invigorating workout, hiking in Puerto Rico is not to be missed. As a guest of Bahia Beach, you have easy access to some of the most incredible hiking trails in the world, located within the El Yunque National Rainforest. The 28,000-acre rainforest is home to several hiking trails with varying levels of intensity, making hiking in Puerto Rico accessible to everyone—here are four that won’t disappoint:
The La Mina trail is one of the most popular trails for hiking in Puerto Rico due to its short distance (0.7 miles) and stunning destination—but don’t let the length fool you, its elevation change of 492 feet and multiple sets of winding staircases definitely adds an element of difficulty. The trail ends at the La Mina waterfall, but every step along your hike will give your eyes a gift. From the lush shrubbery and beautiful flowers to the winding trail that guides you over bridges and along small pools of crystal clear mountain water, the La Mina hiking trail is one you don’t want to miss.
For short and sweet hiking in Puerto Rico, the Big Tree Trail is a common option. It is also 0.7 miles in distance, but it only touts an elevation change of 164 feet. The interpretive trail is steep in a few locations, but the entire hiking trail is paved in asphalt, making the climb much easier. While enjoying this hiking trail near Bahia Beach, you might have the pleasure of being serenaded by the native warbler, or perhaps you will get to see the exquisite hummingbirds gathering nectar from a brightly hued hibiscus.
If you are seeking an unforgettable panoramic view of the rainforest, the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, then the Mt. Britton trail near Bahia Beach is worth the climb. This 0.8 mile hiking trail consists of a 594-feet elevation change and leads to a historic stone tower and observation deck that was built in the 1930s.
If you are ready for a true adventure, then the El Yunque trail is the clear choice for hiking in Puerto Rico. This 2.4-mile excursion begins at the steps directly across from the visitor center, so it is easy to locate, but it won’t be so simple to climb. Throughout the course of your hike, you will pass through canopies of sweeping greenery as you make your way over gravel, native stone, and mud. After a 1,378-foot elevation change, you will reach the mysterious Dwarf Forest, where you can take in the sights and sounds of nature before beginning your descent.
Hiking in Puerto Rico is one of the most amazing things you can do to really experience the beauty the island has to offer. However, always check out the forest trail updates before departing from Bahia Beach to ensure the hiking trail you are heading to is open to hikers.
