Hiking in Mexico City - Desierto de los Leones to San Miguel Hill & Hermitage Route

  


Mexico City bursts with endless opportunities for fun, culture, and recreation. And if you’re craving nature, fresh air, and adventure, the Desierto de los Leones is a must. Whether you’re into hiking, cycling, or running, this national park offers scenic trails, lush forests, and a peaceful escape just minutes away from the city’s hustle.



I recommend heading straight to the former convent, a fascinating 17th‑century site that’s well worth a visit. Here you’ll also find convenient parking and restrooms.

Right next to the convent, local eateries serve hearty menus featuring mushroom soup, menudo, enchiladas, and other delicious traditional dishes. Warm up with a comforting atole on chilly days, or cool down with refreshing drinks like jamaica or horchata . These spots are a perfect choice for breakfast or lunch—either before or after your forest hike. Keep in mind they usually close around 5 PM.


Around the convent, you’ll discover charming hermitages—perfect spots for capturing beautiful photos. And truly, the entire forest is photogenic: towering pines, oyamels, oaks, and a rich variety of plants create a magical scene. As you wander, birds will accompany you along the trails, and if luck is on your side, you might hear the rhythmic tapping of a woodpecker or even catch sight of a majestic eagle  overhead.




This vast green forest—Mexico City’s  reserve and natural lung—sits high in the mountains at 2,700 to 3,800 meters above sea level. If you choose a trail that leads to a lookout point, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of Santa Fe and other parts of the city. And wherever you turn, you’ll see mountains and endless greenery stretching into the horizon.






As a historical note, President Venustiano Carranza declared Desierto de los Leones the very first National Park in Mexico back in 1917.

You won’t want to carry too much gear, but if you’re planning a round‑trip route of about 15–20 km, you’ll enjoy a rewarding adventure through this stunning forest."

Bring with you the following

  • A quick‑dry T‑shirt and a sweatshirt, since the climate here is cool and humid

  • Lightweight pants—avoid denim or cotton, which aren’t ideal for hiking

  • A light rain jacket

  • Hiking boots with non‑slip soles, and if possible, waterproof

  • Snacks like nuts, granola bars, or chocolate

  • 1-2 lt. Water

  • Trekking poles

  • An optional cap—the forest canopy offers shade, but a cap can protect you from hail

There are two important reasons to stay on the established trails: first, to avoid getting lost, and second, to prevent erosion in untouched areas where only wildlife passes. Protecting the forest is everyone’s responsibility.

Even when walking along the marked paths, watch your step—young trees may be sprouting right where you tread, or you might cross paths with an animal you wouldn’t want to disturb.



  

  

Many people enjoy taking dogs to the forest, but out of respect for others, they must be kept on a leash. Out of respect for the forest, it's best not to bring them, as they scare away the local wildlife.


The landscapes are beautiful, the scent of the forest is relaxing, and the birdsong invites you to reflect, disconnect, and rest, even if you're physically tired.


   





There are several routes you can find on hiking apps like Wikiloc to reach Cerro de San Miguel, which is the second highest mountain in the city. We started at the convent, climbed towards Cerro del Caballete, circled around it, and continued towards the summit of San Miguel.


Keep in mind that the elevation gain is approximately 820 meters. The time it takes to complete the route will depend on your fitness level; at a leisurely pace, allow about 4 hours to ascend and 3 hours to descend.

Upon reaching the summit, you'll find the Hermitage of San Miguel, where hikers leave photos, prayers, and momentos of loved ones. There are also a few crypts at the site. There, we encountered a group of family and friends paying tribute to a loved one who was passionate about the mountains.







Next to the chapel, there's a forest fire lookout tower and a ranger watching over the area. Reaching this point means you're halfway there, so make sure you have enough energy for the descent!

Along the way, there are well-established paths, some wider than others. Some sections are rocky, others covered in leaves. It can be quite slippery.

Other walks you can take in the area include::




Remember to respect the forest by taking your trash with you and not making campfires unless it's in a designated area, such as a barbecue grill.  Respect also by not bringing high volume music.


Enjoy your walk and share your experience in the comments!

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