An Express Hike in San Juan Tlacotenco
For sunrises or sunsets, this is the perfect short hike when visiting Tepoztlán.
There’s a hike that we go on every single time we go to Tepoztlán.
In a narrow, cobbled street, tucked behind the Escuela Primaria Josefa Ortiz De Dominguez, there’s a flat little path.
It winds back and forth between the trees.
And it makes a sharp turn upwards.
It makes you climb up some steps set in the stone and hold on to a makeshift ladder that feels more precarious every time I climb it.
And once you make it to the top, it rewards you with the most spectacular views of the valley below.
As well as the majestic Popocatépetl, who on this occasion happened to be putting on a show for his beloved Iztaccíhuatl.
And every year, the trees at the edge of the cliff overtake a little bit more of the sacred space, jealously protecting the wonderful views found below.
The hike is only a 10-minute drive from downtown Tepoztlán, making it an obligatory visit you can easily sneak in at any time of the day. I’m partial to early morning or late afternoon visits, to watch the sun rise or set on the rugged terrain.
The “trailhead” is located at the end of Calle Miguel Hidalgo in San Juan Tlacotenco, Morelos, Mexico.
Andrea Wintergerst
Based mainly in Colorado. Loves cheese, rain, and starry nights. Can usually be spotted in the wild wearing a Spirit Jersey and balancing two cameras. Often laughs and cries at the same time. Barely survived one Master's program, but wants to do another.
