Top 10 Hiking Trails in Puerto Vallarta: Your Ultimate Guide to Outdoor Adventures

1. Boca de Tomatlán to Las Animas Trail
Difficulty: Moderate
Trail Length: 3.5 miles (5.6 km)
Why Go: Enjoy a combination of jungle and ocean views on this stunning coastal trail that leads to Las Animas Beach.
What to Expect: A blend of forest paths and cliffside trails with occasional ocean views. The trail ends at Las Animas Beach, a great spot for relaxation or a swim.
Best For: Hikers looking for a mix of nature and beach access.

2. El Salto Waterfall Trail
Difficulty: Easy
Trail Length: 1.5 miles (2.4 km)
Why Go: This short and scenic trail is perfect for those with limited time or beginners who want to visit a beautiful waterfall.
What to Expect: A straightforward, mostly flat trail that takes you to a picturesque waterfall and natural pool.
Best For: Families, beginners, or anyone seeking a quick, scenic hike.

3. Mirador de la Cruz (The Cross Lookout)
Difficulty: Moderate
Trail Length: 1.8 miles (2.9 km)
Why Go: Hike up to one of the best viewpoints in Puerto Vallarta, offering panoramic views of the city and Banderas Bay.
What to Expect: A steep climb up a series of stairs, but the breathtaking view from the top makes the effort worth it. It’s a great spot for photos, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Best For: Those who want a short but rewarding climb with a spectacular view.

4. Monkey Mountain (Cerro del Mono)
Difficulty: Challenging
Trail Length: 4.3 miles (7 km)
Why Go: For experienced hikers looking for a challenge, Monkey Mountain offers a steep climb and sweeping views of the surrounding area.
What to Expect: A rocky and steep ascent, but once at the top, you’ll be rewarded with incredible views of the coastline and surrounding towns.
Best For: Experienced hikers seeking a challenging trek and rewarding panoramic views.

5. Palo Maria Waterfalls Trail
Difficulty: Moderate
Trail Length: 3.2 miles (5 km)
Why Go: Explore dense jungle and enjoy several beautiful waterfalls—perfect for nature lovers looking for a more peaceful, less touristy hike.
What to Expect: A rocky trail through the jungle with multiple waterfall stops. It’s a peaceful escape from the more crowded tourist areas, with opportunities to cool off in the water.
Best For: Those seeking a quiet, natural setting with waterfalls to enjoy along the way.

6. Marina Vallarta Mangrove Trail
Difficulty: Easy
Trail Length: 1.2 miles (1.9 km)
Why Go: This short, flat trail is perfect for birdwatching and observing the unique mangrove ecosystem.
What to Expect: A shaded walk through the mangroves, offering views of local wildlife like birds, crabs, and other creatures.
Best For: Anyone looking for a relaxing, easy walk through a unique natural environment.

7. Cerro de la Bufa
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Trail Length: 4.1 miles (6.6 km)
Why Go: For a cooler climate and panoramic views, this hike takes you up to the top of a mountain, offering stunning vistas of Puerto Vallarta and the surrounding areas.
What to Expect: A challenging trail with some steep and rocky sections. The summit rewards you with breathtaking views of the city, coastline, and nearby mountains.
Best For: Hikers seeking a challenging trail with spectacular views.

8. Yelapa Waterfalls Hike
Difficulty: Easy
Trail Length: 1.7 miles (2.7 km)
Why Go: A short and scenic trail that leads to two beautiful waterfalls in the peaceful village of Yelapa, a perfect place to unwind.
What to Expect: Mostly flat terrain leading to two gorgeous waterfalls. Afterward, explore Yelapa, a tranquil village known for its laid-back atmosphere.
Best For: Those wanting an easy hike with the chance to visit a quiet, charming village.

9. Los Arcos Trail
Difficulty: Moderate
Trail Length: 2 miles (3.2 km)
Why Go: For views of the iconic Los Arcos rock formations and the opportunity to combine hiking with a boat tour.
What to Expect: A short but moderately steep hike with great coastal views. Afterward, you can take a boat tour to get a closer look at the rock formations.
Best For: Hikers looking for a short hike with ocean views and a chance to add a boat tour to the experience.

10. Mismaloya to Eden Trail
Difficulty: Moderate
Trail Length: 3.5 miles (5.6 km)
Why Go: A scenic hike that leads to a natural pool, made famous by the movie Predator.
What to Expect: A rocky and uneven path through jungle terrain that leads to a refreshing natural pool, perfect for a swim after your hike.
Best For: Hikers interested in movie history and those looking for a rewarding swim in a beautiful natural setting.

Choosing the Right Trail for You
Still unsure which trail to pick? Here’s a quick guide:

• For Easy, Family-Friendly Hikes: Try the Marina Vallarta Mangrove Trail or El Salto Waterfall Trail for short, easy walks.

• For Scenic Views and Moderate Difficulty: Mirador de la Cruz and Boca de Tomatlán to Las Animas offer a mix of jungle and coastal beauty.

• For Rugged Adventures: Monkey Mountain, Palo Maria Waterfalls, and Mismaloya to Eden are for those looking for more challenging terrain.

• For a Peaceful Experience: Yelapa Waterfalls Hike and Los Arcos Trail provide easy hikes with beautiful, tranquil surroundings.

Start Your Hiking Adventure in Puerto Vallarta
With such a diverse range of trails, Puerto Vallarta offers something for every hiker. Whether you’re looking for an easy stroll through the mangroves or a challenging climb up the mountains, these top 10 trails will help you explore the region's natural beauty. Ready to hit the trails? Lace up your hiking boots and experience Puerto Vallarta like never before.