Hiking Venues for “Hoofing It In Oaxaca”
Below is an alphabetical list of the various hikes offered in our program. You will note that not all the hikes are on the calendar for any given season, as we rotate the venues from year to year for variety. Go to the “Schedule” page to view the hikes offered in the current season listed in chronological order.
When reviewing the hike options, be sure to click on the “More Information” link on any of the entries below to find additional material, including a map and photos of that particular venue. It is the responsibility of hike participants to be well acquainted with the characteristics of the various hikes and the physical demands of those outings.
Reservations are required for all hikes and weekend trips, as we must make appropriate arrangements for transportation. The hike reservation fee for the 2023-2024 season is 400 pesos for OLL members and 500 pesos for non-members. For simplicity, this is a flat fee which applies to all day hikes, no matter the distance or difficulty. Reservations may be made online at the Lending Library’s “Online Store”, which can be accessed at https://www.oaxlibrary.org/hikes. Follow the directions posted there. Reservations may also be made in person at the circulation desk at the Library. Note, though, that typically reservations are not accepted more than 30 days before the hike date. All reservations must be paid for at the time they are registered.
Many hiking trails are in territory administered by various local villages which require a fee for permission to hike through their land. This fee varies from place to place and year to year.
Rendezvous point: hike participants should meet at the south side of Llano Park at 8:15 am to check in and pay any additional fees before boarding the van for an 8:30 departure.
Apoala Overnight Trip
Not scheduled this season.
Apoala is a very small (pop. 200) Mixtec village located in a deep, secluded valley 68 miles northwest of Oaxaca city. Its dramatic setting and some of the physical characteristics of the area make it a fine destination for hiking. The Mexican government has designated Apoala as a natural biosphere, and has constructed an ecotourism center there. The principal things of interest to visitors are the extremely narrow, vertiginous canyon that guards the northern approach to the village; the natural spring at the base of a cliff that gushes clear, frigid water year around; the various caves that riddle the nearby hillsides; and the series of scenic cascades and waterfalls created by the water flowing out of the valley and over yet another cliff. Apoala is reached by driving an hour or so northeast of Nochixtlan. The road there was paved in 2020, significantly reducing the drive time to get there.
Time frame: 8:30 am Saturday through 5 pm on Monday / Hikes into the upper canyon, around town and to the cascadas in the lower canyon / Hike distances are short, but the going is extremely rough and steep, requiring good balance and stamina / Exposure: mix of sun & shade / Rating: moderate to difficult
(Click here for more information about this outing)
Atzompa Archeological
Not scheduled this season. Atzompa can easily be reached by bus or colectivo from downtown Oaxaca and is a worthy destination for a day hike on your own initiative.
Atzompa is a small village just a bit northwest of Oaxaca. The hike goes to the ruins at the top of the hill near town, which were excavated in 2007-2012. These ruins were part of the Monte Alban complex and date from the Classic period of 100-700 C.E. The site opened to the public in December of 2012. At some point there will likely be an admission charge to visit the ruins, but it was still free of charge this past season. Sadly, the community museum about halfway between the Atzompa ruins and the town center, which displays many of the excellent artifacts unearthed during the recent excavations, remains closed due to earthquake damage. After the hike and lunch in town, participants may wish to visit local craft shops where green glazed pottery is made or colorful wooden alebrijes are fashioned.
Time frame: 8:30 am to 1:30 pm / Distance: 7.8 Km (4.9 Mi) / Elevation change: 294 M (966 Ft) gain and equal loss / Type: point to point / Trail: city streets & marked paths / Exposure: full sun (no shade anywhere) / Rating: moderate
(Click here for more information about this hike)
Back way to Tule Countryside
24 Nov 2023 / 1 Jan & 5 Feb 2024
Santa Maria El Tule is a pleasant little village located 6 miles (10 kms) east of Oaxaca on the PanAmerican Highway. It is justly famous for the immense cedar tree in the church yard, which is a local tourist attraction. The town (and the tree) are the destination for this hike along the rolling hills that form the southern wall of the Tlacolula valley. The hike begins in the Rosario neighborhood at the southeast corner of Oaxaca and follows a route that climbs along a rocky trail up and over the shoulder of a hill. From there the route is mainly downhill to Tule. The trek should take about three hours. Once arrived in Tule the group will stop for lunch at any of several restaurants or food vendors in the marketplace.
Time frame: 8:30 am to 2:00 pm / Distance: 8.0 Km (5.0 Mi) / Elevation change: 125 M (411 Ft) uphill and 156 M (511 Ft) downhill / Type: point to point / Trail: Jeep road, single track and city streets / Exposure: full sun / Rating: moderate
(Click here for more information about this hike)
Benito Juárez Overnight Trip
Not scheduled this season.
Benito Juárez is the village in the Pueblos Mancomunados closest to Oaxaca city. It is usually reached via the dirt road that climbs nearly 5,000 feet (1524 meters) in the 11 miles (17.7 km) from Teotitlan del Valle. There is an ecotourism camp with cozy cabins for overnight visitors. Meals can be had at a restaurant next to the tourism office. Benito Juárez is a great staging area for hikes to other nearby villages, such as La Neveria, Latuvi or Cuajimoloyas (read more about these places by looking them up on this web site). At an elevation of 9638 feet(2937 meters), you can expect notably cooler temperatures, especially at night, so be sure to bring a jacket, hat, gloves and layered clothing. It is not unusual for the area to have fog and light rain, even in the dry season.
Time frame: 8:30 am Saturday through 5 pm on Sunday / Hikes along dirt roads or on footpaths through the forest to nearby villages or the scenic overlook above the town / Hike distances vary, as does the difficulty of the terrain / Exposure: mix of sun & shade / Rating: moderate to difficult
(Click here for more information about this outing)
Benito Juarez to La Neveria Mountain
15 Jan 2024
Difficult option: Tucked into a valley in the Sierra Madre and one of the communities in the Pueblos Mancomunados, La Neveria is our destination on this hike, which begins at Benito Juárez. The first part of the trek is along a dirt road, but then we plunge down a footpath that runs steadily downhill. At the end, though, the trail rises sharply from where we cross the Rio Guacamayas, providing a strenuous climb at the conclusion of the hike. This is a fine outing in the highland forests. It is rated “Difficult” because of the altitude, the steepness of the terrain and the condition of the trail. Participants in this hike should be in good physical condition. There is a 60 peso admission fee, and local guides must be hired. Sack lunch required. Motion sickness alert! The ride to Benito Juárez and back from La Neveria may induce dizzyness.
Time frame: 8:30 am to 4:00 pm / Distance: 8.2 Km (5.1 Mi) one way / Elevation change: 363 M (1193 Ft) gain & 565 M (1855 Ft) loss / Highest elevation: 2937 M (9638 Ft) / Steepest climb on trail: 36% / Trail: dirt road & forest path / Type: point to point / Exposure: mix of sun & shade / Rating: difficult – for terrain, elevation & distance
Moderate option: Some people might wish to enjoy the high country scenery but prefer a less arduous hike. It is possible to simply walk along the dirt road that links these villages. This is not quite as thrilling is trekking on a steep footpath, but the crisp air and mountain vistas are just as nice. As with the more challenging hike, there is an admission fee of 60 pesos and a local guide must be hired. Sack lunch required. Motion sickness alert! The ride to Benito Juárez and back from La Neveria may induce dizzyness.
Time frame: 9 am to 4:30 pm / Distance: 6.9 Km (4.3 Mi) one way / Elevation change: uphill 156 M (514 Ft) & downhill 257 M (845 Ft) / Highest elevation: 2937 M (9638 Ft) / Steepest downhill grade on trail: 29% / Type: point to point / Trail: dirt road / Exposure: mix of sun & shade / Rating: moderate – for distance and terrain
(Click here for more information about these hikes)
Buena Vista Countryside
15 Nov 2023 / 25 Mar 2024
The Buena Vista trail was a new addition to our hike venues in 2022-2023. The hike starts at the church in the tiny village of San Antonio Buena Vista, located in the Teitipac region of the Tlacolula Valley, and proceeds from there up to a pass in the ridge of hills separating it from the Zimatlan Valley. The hike is rated moderate because the trail goes over some rough stretches. Hikers will stop for lunch in Tule after the hike.
Time frame: 8:30 am to 4:00 pm / Distance: 7.7 Kms (4.8 miles) / Elevation change: 174 meters (572 feet) / Steepest grade: 12 percent / Type: out & back / Trail: rough jeep road / Exposure: full sun / Rating: moderate / Drive time: one hour each way / Lunch at a restaurant in Santa Maria el Tule on the way home
(Click here for more information about this hike.)
Cactus Trail of Cuauhtémoc Countryside
6 Nov 2023 / 14 Feb 2024
The small village of Cuauhtémoc de Rojas lies in the Tlacolula valley not far from Tule. It offers ready access to some rough trails that lead into nearby hills which support a large number of cacti. The footpaths are not much used, are mostly rocky and sometimes a bit steep. They afford some nice views of a deep arroyo and vistas of much of the Tlacolula valley stretching into the distance to the east.
Time frame: 8:30 am to 3:00 pm / Distance: 5.3 Km (3.3 Mi) / Elevation change: 254 M (832 Ft) gain & loss / Type: loop / Trail: rough & rocky footpaths / Exposure: full sun / Rating: moderate
(Click here for more information about this hike)
Capulálpam Mountain
Not scheduled this season.
The small mountain village of Guelatao, situated 52 kilometers north of Oaxaca city on Highway 175, is renowned as the birthplace of Benito Juarez, likely the most famous (and possibly the only honest) president in Mexico’s checkered history as an independent nation. It and another nearby town – Capulálpam – are deserving of a visit. Capulálpam has the sort of ecotourism park common among villages in the Sierra Norte, all of which support hiking and biking. One of the trails in the area – which consists almost entirely of a very pleasant, little-used logging road through the forest – runs 3.2 miles until it reaches a small water control dam. The hike out and back is a moderate endeavor, suitable for anyone with good stamina. Our group will stop in Guelatao on the way to Capulálpam to visit the memorial and museum to Benito Juárez. Sack lunch required. Motion sickness alert! The ride to and from Capulálpam may induce dizzyness.
Time frame: 8:30 am to 5:00 pm / Distance: 10.3 Km (6.4 Mi) / Elevation change: 258 M (847 Ft) gain & loss / Highest elevation: 2256 M (7401 Ft) / Type: out & back / Trail: smooth dirt road & footpath / Exposure: deep shade / Rating: moderate to difficult (for elevation and distance)
(Click here for more information about this hike)
Capulálpam Overnight Trip
Not scheduled this season
Capulálpam is a charming mountain village in the Sierra Norte well deserving of its designation as a “Pueblo Magico”. The town is kept scrupulously clean, with no trash or graffiti, and the buildings always look freshly painted. There are scenic mountain vistas from the plaza in front of the church or the mirador higher up the hill. The ecotourism camp is within walking distance of the village, which has several restaurants where meals can be obtained. The mining museum and refurbished gold mine in the nearby village of Natividad are local attractions. There are a number of hiking trails in the vicinity. Participants might also enjoy visiting the mine ruins at Cinco Señores, located on the other side of the Rio Papaloapam valley near Lachatao.
Time frame: 8:30 am Saturday through 5 pm on Sunday / Hikes along dirt roads or on footpaths through the forest to nearby villages or the scenic overlook above the town / Hike distances vary, as does the difficulty of the terrain / Exposure: mix of sun & shade / Rating: moderate to difficult
Cerro San Felipe Mountain
Not scheduled this season.
Cerro San Felipe is the mountain knob that looms over Oaxaca. Topping out at an elevation of 3129 meters (10,267 feet), it is a natural lure for hikers. There are several routes to the mirador. This hike goes by way of the trail network found at La Cumbre Ixtepeji.
Time frame: 8:30 am to 3:30 pm / Hike distance: 5.6 kms (3.5 miles) / Elevation change: 686 meters (2250 feet) of climbing and descending / Highest point: 3229 meters (10,593 feet) / Type: out & back / Trail: logging roads and footpaths / Exposure: 70% forest shade & 30% sun / Rating: difficult due to amount of elevation change and steepness of trail
(Click here for more information about this hike)
Cieneguilla Trail Mountain
Not scheduled this season.
The Cienequilla Trail runs mainly downhill from the small lake and campground of the same name located not far from Arroyo Guacamaya into the town of San Agustin Etla. The trail is steep in places (the gradient runs from 15% to over 30%), with lots of rocks. Hiking poles or a walking stick are recommended. People with weak ankles or knees probably should skip this hike. Be warned: once you have started down the trail there is no place to get off and flagg down a mototaxi or colectivo! After the hike we will take time to visit the Centro de las Artes in San Agustin, an impressive structure, built in 1883, which once housed a steam-powered textile mill but is now a gallery that hosts traveling exhibits of art from Mexico and Central American countries. Then on the way back to Oaxaca the group will stop at either Mia Arroz (open only Thu thru Sun) or the Hacienda Santa Marta which offers an incredible buffet lunch (starts serving at 1:30 pm daily). The cost of your meal will be approximately 250 pesos for food and beverage at either eatery.
Time frame: 8:30 am to 3:30 pm / Distance: 5.2 kms (3.9 miles) / Elevation change: 683 M (2240 feet) downhill & 166 M (544 feet) uphill / Highest point: 2390 M (7844 feet) / Type: point to point / Trail: mainly single track through the forest / Exposure: 40% forest shade & 60% sun / Rating: very difficult
(Click here for more information about this hike)
Cinco Señores Mine Ruins Countryside
Not scheduled this season
Most archeological sites around Oaxaca are of Indian origin. But there are Spanish ruins in the neighborhood, too. Montezuma II reportedly told Cortés that most of his gold came from Oaxaca, prompting the wily conquistador to claim the area as his own fiefdom and subsequent Spanish settlers to explore for the precious metal here. There once were significant mines in the mountains near Amatlan and Lachatao. Today what remains of the Cinco Señores and Socorro haciendas is a wonderland of aqueducts, stone bridges and the disintegrating remains of homes, mine facilities and a church. You will definitely want to bring your camera! Pack a flashlight, too, if you want to poke around in mine tunnels. Our hike will follow a footpath along a mountain stream to visit these intriguing sites. Sack lunch required. Motion sickness alert! T he ride to and from Lachatao may induce dizzyness.
Time frame: 8:30 am to 4:00 pm / Distance: 4.8 Km (3.0 Mi) / Elevation change: 125 meters (410 feet) / Highest point: 1550 M (6397 Ft) / Type: out & back / Trail: footpath through the woods / Exposure: mix of shade and sun / Rating: easy to moderate
(Click here for more information about this hike)
Cuajimoloyas – Cañon de Coyote Trail Mountain
Not scheduled this season.
The Cañon de Coyote is one of the most unusual and difficult trails in the Sierra Norte. While most of the trail is a delightful ramble through the high country, there are some very challenging sections that demand good agility and the ability to scramble up and down steep rock faces. Hiking poles are strongly recommended.
Time frame: 8:30 am to 3:00 pm / Distance: 5.6 kms (3.5 miles) / Elevation change: 227 meters (744 feet) / Highest point: 3159 M (10363 feet) / Type: loop trail / Trail: mix of farm roads and single-track / Exposure: mix of sun and forest shade / Rating: very difficult due to steep terrain and need to scramble up and down narrow passages
(Click here for more information about this hike)
Cuajimoloyas to Benito Juarez Mountain
20 Dec 2023 / 9 Feb 2024
Difficult option: Cuajimoloyas is a small village located in the Pueblos Mancomunados high in the Sierra Norte mountains about 30 miles southeast of Oaxaca. This hike, which ends at Benito Juárez, is one of the most strenuous in the program, and so requires that participants be in good physical shape. It is rated “Difficult” because of the elevation, topography and length. The route – mostly on narrow footpaths – runs through steep terrain at an elevation topping 10,000 feet (3048 meters). Temperatures in the highlands are usually about 20 degrees Fahrenheit cooler than in Oaxaca City, so a light jacket is recommended. Fog and rain are common here, even in the dry season, so taking rain gear is also suggested. (If it is a nice day, rain gear can be left in the vehicles.) There is a 60 peso admission fee and local guides must be hired. Sack lunch required. Motion sickness alert! The ride to Cuajimoloyas and back from Benito Juárez may induce dizzyness.
Time frame: 8:30 am to 4:30 pm / Distance: 7.9 Km (4.9 Mi) / Elevation change: downhill 557 M (1827 Ft) & uphill 370 M (1214 Ft) / Highest elevation: 3102 M (10,177 Ft) / Type: point to point / Trail: forest footpaths / Exposure: mix of sun & shade / Rating: difficult to very difficult
Moderate option: Some folks may prefer a less arduous adventure, and so may walk along the road that connects these two villages. The road travels along a ridge, with less elevation change than the path through the forest. Where the hike through the woods takes about 4.0 hours, a leisurely walk on the road should run about 3.0 hours. This alternate hike is rated “Moderate” because of the altitude and length. As those going by road will likely arrive in Benito Juárez well before the other group, participants may choose either to pack a sack lunch or dine at the small restaurant across from the ecotourism office in Benito Juárez upon reaching their destination. Another option is to use the extra time to visit the Mirador, a scenic overlook atop the hill above Benito Juárez that offers a splendid view of the surrounding area from the ground, from an observation tower and from an impressive suspension bridge – all of which are free of charge. The Mirador is close by, but requires a strenuous climb to reach the top. As with the more strenuous hike, an admission fee of 60 pesos must be paid and a local guide needs to be hired. Motion sickness alert! The ride to Cuajimoloyas and back from Benito Juárez may induce dizzyness.
Time frame: 8:30 am to 4:30 pm / Distance: 5.8 Km (3.6 Mi) / Elevation change: downhill 277 M (910 Ft) & uphill 78 M (256Ft) / Highest elevation: 3102 M (10,177 Ft) / Type: point to point / Trail: paved & unpaved road / Exposure: mix of sun & shade / Rating: easy to moderate
(Click here for more information about these hikes)
Cuajimoloyas Overnight Trip
Not scheduled this season.
The village of Cuajimoloyas has a pleasant ecotourism camp with ten cabañas tucked in the woods 4.0 kilometers (2.5 miles) from the center of town. It is a delightful refuge for those looking for some peace and quiet in a mountain hideaway. The camp includes a large meeting / dining room with kitchen facilities for group meals. There are also several small restaurants in town where simple meals can be obtained. The highest point on the unpaved road to the camp tips the altimeter at 10,560 feet (3219 meters), while the camp itself is the low point at 10,129 feet (3087 meters). Those hiking between town and camp will climb 325 feet and descend 585 feet along the way. The walk takes an hour each way. There are numerous other hiking trails in the vicinity, including a relatively easy path through the woods to Llano Grande, just over 5 miles distant. Cuajimoloyas also boasts the longest and highest zip line in the area. Motion sickness alert! The ride to and from Cuajimoloyas may induce dizzyness.
Time frame: 8:30 am Saturday through 5 pm on Sunday / Hikes along dirt roads or on footpaths through the forest to nearby villages / Hike distances vary, as does the difficulty of the terrain / Exposure: mix of sun & shade / Rating: moderate to difficult
Cuajimoloyas to Llano Grande Mountain
10 Nov 2023 / 13 Mar 2024
The villages of Cuajimoloyas and Llano Grande sit on top of the world as far as high places in the Sierra Norte mountains are concerned, as both are at an altitude of over 10,000 feet. There is a very nice trail which meanders through the woods connecting the two small towns, which are part of the Pueblos Mancomunados. The hike is rated moderate on account of the elevation and length, but the going is fairly easy, as the path follows the contour of the hillsides and so has only moderate climbs and descents. Because the trail is in the deep forest, there are no scenic vistas to be had. But the air is crisp and clear, offering a respite from the heat and smog of the Oaxaca Valley. Motion sickness alert! The ride to Cuajimoloyas and back from Llano Grande may induce dizzyness.
Time frame: 8:30 am to 5:00 pm / Distance: 8.5 km (5.3 miles) / Elevation change: 221 M 726 Ft) uphill & 295 M (969 Ft) downhill / Highest elevation: 3208 M (10,527 Ft) / Type: point to point / Trail: mostly forest footpath / Exposure: mostly shade / Rating: moderate
(Click here for more information about this hike)
Cuatro Venados Countryside
27 Dec 2023 / 11 & 27 Mar 2024
San Pablo Cuatro Venados sits near the top of the mountain ridge that forms the western wall of the Oaxaca Valley directly west from Monte Alban. There are tourist cabins there for visitors who want to spend the night at elevation. We will savor the view as our bus climbs the winding dirt road to Cuatro Venados, then enjoy cooler temperatures as we wander through the countryside above the town. Our “trailhead” is on the plateau above the town and is approximately 40 kms (25 mile) from Oaxaca city. You might want to pack a sweater or jacket! Also, there is very little shade, so sunscreen, hats and/or parasols are recommended. Sack lunch required. Motion sickness alert! The ride to and from Cuatro Venados may induce dizzyness.
Time frame: 8:30 am to 4:30 pm / Distance: 9.5 Km (6 Mi) / Highest point: 2762 meters ( 9061 feet) / Elevation change: 182 M (600 Ft) / Type: out & back / Trail: dirt road / Exposure: mostly full sun / Rating: easy to moderate
(Click here for more information about this hike)
Cuilapam to Zaachila Countryside
17 Nov 2023 / 4 Mar 2024
Today’s hike begins at the ruins of the never-completed Dominican monastery near the center of Cuilapam de Guerrero and proceeds on city streets and country lanes to Zaachila where the group will stop for lunch. The grand monastery was begun in 1555 but abandoned about 40 years later. The admission fee of 45 pesos will gain you entrance to the cloister area of the monastery at Cuilapam, the second floor of which is used to identify, catalog and store artifacts taken from archeological digs in the area. After spending about 30 minutes at the monastery, the group will commence hiking through south Cuilapam, then proceed along unpaved country roads to Zaachila, once the political capitol of the Zapotec empire. You will note the street names in Zaachila are in Zapotec. In the center of town we will explore the archeological site which was excavated in the mid-1960’s and features the tomb of Lord Nine Flower. There is a 65 pesos charge to enter the archeological zone. After the hike we will dine at the marketplace nearby.
Time frame: 8:30 am to 1:15 pm / Distance: 7.9 Km (4.9 Mi) / Elevation change: 86 meters (180 feet) / Type: point to point / Trail: city sidewalks & streets, unpaved roads / Exposure: full sun / Rating: easy to moderate
(Click here for more information about this hike.)
Cuishe Trail Countryside
1 Dec 2023 / 29 Jan 2024
This hike – new in the 2022-2023 season – starts at the first bridge on the road to Santa Inés del Monte, near the community of La Lobera. Our van will leave us there and we will start the walk heading southwest. The trail is a wide, dirt road with some gradual hills. Along the way we can appreciate some plantations of corn, beans and – why not? – agave. We will also see part of the Ocotlán and Zimatlán Valleys. This is a nice hike with amazing views. It is rated moderate for the length of the trail. Our outing will end near La Raya, a community belonging to the district of Zimatlán. Be sure to pack a sack lunch to enjoy on the trail, along with plenty of water and perhaps some snack food.
Time frame: 8:30 am to 3:30 pm / Distance: 9.5 kms (5.9 miles) one way / Elevation change: +185 meters (+607 feet) and – 294 meters (-967 feet) / Type: point to point / Trail: dirt road / Exposure: full sun / Rating: moderate
(Click here for more information about this hike)
Dainzu to Tlacochahuaya Archeological & Countryside
13 Nov 2023 / 15 Mar 2024
Our outing begins with a guided tour of the archeological ruins at Dainzu. Then the hike proceeds overland along country roads to the town of Tlacochahuaya, where the local church has been lovingly restored. There is a 45 peso fee for the tour at Dainzu. Recently the church wardens have been asking for a 10 peso donation to see the interior of the church, where the artwork is of a finer quality than one might expect in a country parish. Participants can eat sack lunches in the park next to the churchyard or grab a bit to eat at one of two small restaurants in the town center.
Time frame: 8:30 am to 2:00 pm / Distance: 4.8 Km (3.0 Mi) / Elevation change: almost none / Type: point to point / Trail: dirt roads and footpaths / Exposure: full sun / Rating: easy
(Click here for more information about this hike)
El Carrizal Day Hike Mountain
16 Feb & 18 Mar 2024
The small village of El Carrizal is situated high in a mountain valley which can be reached via a steep and winding dirt road running out of San Miguel del Valle, which is the community that lays claim to a vast tract of forest land in the area. It takes two hours to make the drive from Oaxaca, but most folks feel the scenery along the way is worth it. The hike itself is a pleasant stroll along a dirt road linking the town to a picnic and camping area around a small man-made mountain lake. Motion sickness alert! The ride to and from El Carrizal may induce dizzyness.
Time frame: 8:30 am to 5:30 pm / Distance: 9.65 kms (6.0 miles) / Elevation change: 525 meters (1723 feet) / Highest elevation: 2930 meters (9612 feet) / Trail: dirt road / Type: out & back / Exposure: mostly forest shade / Rating: Moderate
(Click here for more information about this hike)
El Carrizal – Weekend trip Overnight
Not scheduled this season.
El Carrizal sits in one of the loveliest high-mountain valleys around. The community recently built a new ecotourism camp. There are miles of footpaths and forest roads in the area to explore on foot or by bicycle. The staff at the ecotourism camp will be happy to help you enjoy your weekend stay in the village. Motion sickness alert! The ride to and from El Carrizal may induce dizzyness.
Time frame: 8:30 am Saturday through 5 pm on Sunday / Hikes along dirt roads or on footpaths through the lush forest and to a mirador overlooking the Tlacolula valley / Hike distances vary, as does the difficulty of the terrain / Exposure: mix of sun & shade / Rating: moderate to difficult
(Click here for more information about this outing)
El Picacho Mountain
4 Dec 2023 / 19 Jan 2024
Challenging option: The Zapotec village of Teotitlan del Valle sits in the Tlacolula valley 19 miles (31 km) east of Oaxaca city. It is the most renowned of the weaving villages of the area, famous for the rugs and many other items most families there spend their time producing and selling. It is also reputed to be one of oldest continuously inhabited sites on earth, with archeological records going back over 7,000 years (making it as old as Damascus). The community museum and the new cultural center on the market square are worth a visit, as are a number of home workshops where villagers work their textile magic. However, the object of our attention is El Picacho, the peak that looms above the town. We will hike the well-defined trail that winds up the side of the mountain to the cross and shrine at the summit. The way is fairly steep, calling for a good dose of stamina. There are panoramic views at the top to reward those who make it all the way. There is a 15 peso charge to hike the trail. After the hike the group will stop for lunch at any of several restaurants in Tule on the way back to Oaxaca.
Time frame: 8:30 am to 3:00 pm / Distance: 4.7 Km (2.9 Mi) / Elevation gain & loss: 334 M (1097 Ft) / Starting point: 1752.6 M (5750 Ft) / Highest elevation: 2081.8 M (6830 Ft) / Type: out & back / Trail: footpath / Exposure: mostly full sun / Rating: difficult to very difficult
Moderate option: Those hikers who don’t feel compelled to climb El Picacho have a ready alternative in the trails that stay in the valley and loop around the reservoir at the edge of town and and the dirt road which climbs 4000 feet in elevation to the village of Benito Juarez. The same 15 pesos admission charge applies to the easier hike as well. After the hikes, both groups will stop for lunch at any of several restaurants in Tule on the way back to Oaxaca.
Time frame: 8:30 am to 3:00 pm / Distance: 6.8 Km (4.2 Mi) / Elevation gain & loss: 152 M (500 Ft) / Starting point: 1752.6 M (5750 Ft) / Type: out & back / Trail: country road / Exposure: full sun / Rating: moderate
(Click here for more information about these hikes)
Guacamaya Mountain
Not scheduled this season.
There are miles of logging roads and hiking trails crisscrossing the area around Arroyo Guacamaya and an observation tower atop El Portillo. These make for a satisfying trek through the woods. There is also a small waterfall in the dense forest just outside Guacamaya, a little village on the flank of the mountains north of Oaxaca. There is a 20 peso charge to visit the waterfall. Hike participants may choose to take sack lunches or enjoy a fresh-caught trout dinner at a local restaurant, which should cost about 200 pesos for food and beverage.
Time frame: 8:30 am to 3:30 pm / Distance: varies by choice of trails / Elevation change: 236 meters (775 Ft) uphill & 539 meters (1768 ft) downhill / Highest elevation: 3154 M (10,349 Ft) / Type: choice of loop, out & back and point to point trails / Trail: footpaths & dirt roads / Exposure: 70% shade and 30% sun / Rating: easy, moderate and difficult, depending on trails chosen.
(Click here for more information about this outing)
Hierve el Agua Countryside
Not scheduled this season.
Perched on a steep hillside, a series of bubbling springs feed man-made pools before plunging to the valley below. There are a couple of miles of trails around the springs, but this outing is more about savoring a beautiful spot, pausing for reflection, and taking a nature walk than doing an actual hike. Bring your bathing suit, if you like! (There are changing rooms available.) But be forewarned that – despite the name “Boil the Water” – these are not hot springs; the water temperature will be tepid, at best. Vendors in the parking lot sell cold drinks, snacks and simple meals. Many visitors prefer to pack a sack lunch. And don’t forget your sunscreen! There is a very modest 25 peso admission charge. In 2014 a 50 peso parking fee was added. In addition, the villagers of San Lorenzo Albarradas will charge an additional 10 pesos per person for passing through their town. A portion of the new highway from Oaxaca to the coast opened in 2015, eliminating many of the twists and turns of the old road, so we no longer post a “motion sickness advisory” in reference to this trip. The new road also cut the drive time to and from Oaxaca by almost 30 minutes each way.
Time frame: 8:30 am to 3:00 pm / Distance: just a few blocks from the parking lot to the pools; you can hike anywhere from 1/4 mile to 3 miles (.4 to 4.8 Km) on footpaths / Type: loop trails / Trail: rocky footpaths / Exposure: extreme sun / Rating: easy walk to the pools; other trails on the hillsides have very challenging stone steps
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Huayapam Countryside
22 Dec 2023 / 28 Feb 2024
Difficult option: On this, the first of two simultaneous hikes on the same day, we will scramble up the steep hillside on the north side of Huayapam on an old jeep road littered with loose rocks, cross over a ridge, then make a long, gradual descent to the two lakes which provide water for the towns of Huayapam and Tlalixtac. The uphill section will certainly challenge your cardiovascular system! As with the easier outing (below), this is hiking for its own sake; fun, but with an edge! Both hiking groups will rendezvous for lunch at one of the pleasant restaurants on the lakeshore.
Time frame: 8:30 am to 2:00 pm / Distance: 6.4 Km (4.0 Mi) / Elevation change: 232 M (762 Ft) up & 287 M (943 Ft) down / Type: point to point / Trail: rough jeep road & footpaths / Exposure: full sun / Rating: difficult
Moderate option: This second of two simultaneous hikes originating in Huayapam, a small village near Oaxaca favored by many resident expats, is a moderate stroll along dirt roads and single track hiking trails that link with San Luis Beltran and San Felipe del Agua. There are some pleasant views of the Oaxaca Valley along the way on this out-and-back walk through rolling terrain, but nothing of historical or cultural interest. This is hiking for its own sake. Both hiking groups will rendezvous for lunch at one of the pleasant restaurants on the lakeshore.
Time frame: 8:30 am to 2:00 pm / Distance: 6.4 Km (4.0 Mi) / Elevation change: 116 meters (381 feet) gain & loss / Type: out & back / Trail: dirt road & footpaths / Exposure: full sun / Rating: moderate
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Huitzo Hills Cultural & Countryside
Not scheduled this season.
Huitzo sits at the extreme northern end of the Etla valley about midway between Oaxaca city and Nochixtlan. The town is quite proud of the Spanish convent in the city center, which the local population restored and maintains without government financing. We will visit the monastery as we pass through town. Next we will visit the excellent studio of famed local artist, Enrique Flores, who is invariably a gracious host. Huitzo has lovely rolling hill country nearby which offers some great opportunities for hiking.
Time frame: 8:30 am to 4:00 pm / Distance: 4.8 km (3.0 miles) / Elevation change: up to 214 meters (700 feet) / Highest elevation: 2305 meters (7563 feet) / Type: out & back / Trail: wide dirt road / Exposure: mostly full sun / Rating: moderate
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Ixtlahuaca to Tejalapam Countryside
19 Feb 2024
Many of the roads and trails in the Etla valley to the west of Monte Alban are well suited to hiking. This outing is a classic ramble through the rolling countryside between the villages of San Andrés Ixtlahuaca and San Felipe Tejalápam. Participants will enjoy some delightful scenery as well as fresh air and exercise on the hike itself. Pack a sack lunch to enjoy at the high point of the trail with a view overlooking the valley below. Note that this hike may be either a point-to-point hike ending in Tejalapam, or an out & back trek starting at either end and reaching a turn-around and sack lunch point at the highest spot along the way.
Time frame: 8:30 am to 1:30 pm / Distance: 8.6 Km (5.3 Mi) / Elevation change: 209 meters (687 feet) uphill & 190 meters (626 feet) downhill / Highest point: 1797 meters (5898 feet) / Trail: mainly unpaved country roads / Type: point to point or out & back / Exposure: full sun / Rating: moderate
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Ixtlan de Juárez Overnight Trip
Not scheduled this season.
The ecotourism camp at Ixtlan de Juárez is located deep in the woods several kilometers from the town. There are eight cabins widely spread out over a very large and inviting area. Each cabin has two apartments which are variously furnished to sleep from two to six people apiece. There is a large meeting / dining hall on the property and group meals can be contracted for with the local staff. There are several hiking trails nearby. Attractions include visits to Ixtlan and/or Calpulálpam and the mining museum in Natividad, just a few kilometers away. Both Ixtlan and Calpulálpam have scenic overlooks above the towns which offer great views of the villages and the deep valley of the Rio Papaloapam in the distance. Trip participants may well want to feast on trout dinners at the Shoo Betts restaurant two kilometers from Ixtlan on Highway 175 on the way to Tuxtepec.
Time frame: 8:30 am Saturday through 5 pm on Monday / Hikes along dirt roads or on footpaths through the forest / Visit mining museum & restored gold mine in nearby town of Natividad / Hike distances vary, as does the difficulty of the terrain / Exposure: mix of sun & shade / Rating: moderate to difficult
Jalapa del Valle Countryside
8 Jan & 7 Feb 2024
Mountain bikers love to ride through the rolling countryside in the Etla Valley west of Oaxaca. This hike will explore one section of that area. There are actually two parts to today’s outing — the hike itself, and the bus ride to get there. We are going to take the scenic route to the starting point of the hike, which entails a rather significant climb from the floor of the Etla Valley to San Cristobal. The switchbacks on the road and the elevation gain along the way will give everyone a wonderful view of Oaxaca and its environs. Just don’t forget to take your motion-sickness pills! Once over the top, the van will snake down the other side of the mountain to the Rio Jalapilla. Our hike will consist of following the dirt road parallel to the river downhill through Cienequilla and on to Jalapa del Valle. The river valley is surprisingly lush year ‘round, and the farms in the area produce several crops each season. After reaching Jalapa del Valle, we’ll stop for lunch at the Campestre de Jalapa restaurant before we reboard the van and take a shorter, less arduous route home. Motion sickness alert! The ride to the trailhead for today’s hike may induce dizzyness.
Time frame: 8:30 am to 2:00 pm / Distance: 8.0 Km (5.0 Mi) / Elevation change: 354 M (1161 Ft) downhill & just 79 M (260 Ft) going up / Type: point to point / Trail: all dirt road / Exposure: mostly full sun / Rating: easy
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Jalapa del Valle Loop Countryside
Not scheduled this season.
This 3.75 mile loop route starts at the general store in Jalapa del Valle and proceeds east along the road running uphill toward Oaxaca, then switches to a little-used single track trail which runs along the top of the ridge looking down on the town before descending along a couple of farm access roads back into Jalapa. The last several hundred feet of the trail is in the creek bed which runs toward town. The loop takes 2 hours to complete and is rated moderate for some fairly steep sections, both uphill and down.
Time frame: 8:30 am to 1:00 pm / Distance: 6.0 km (3.75 miles) / Elevation change: 207 meters (680 feet) gain & loss / Type: loop / Trail: gravel roads and single track / Exposure: full sun / Rating: moderate
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La Cumbre Mountain
22 Nov 2023 / 22 Mar 2024
There is an ecotourism camp deep in the woods at La Cumbre, located at the top of the first ridge of mountains to the north of Oaxaca. Dense forests cover the steep hillsides throughout. A number of hiking trails and old logging roads wend their way, maintaining tolerable gradients by following the contour of the land. The forest is a great place to find solitude and observe the various birds and plants that make it their home. There is a 40 peso admission charge. Sack lunch required. Motion sickness alert! The ride to and from La Cumbre may induce dizzyness.
Time frame: 8:30 am to 4:00 pm / Distance: 8.2 Km (5.1 Mi) / Elevation change: 368 M (1206 Ft) gain & loss / Type: out & back / Trail: footpath & dirt road / Exposure: mainly forest shade / Rating: moderate to difficult / Highest point: 3212 meters (10,540 feet)
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Lachatao Overnight
Not scheduled this season.
The ecotourism camp in Lachatao in the Sierra Norte mountains north of Oaxaca city is a pleasant place to spend a quiet weekend. There are opportunities to hike, mountain bike or go horseback riding. The most interesting place to visit is the extensive ruins of the gold mines of the Cinco Señores and Socorro haciendas, where you will find the remains of numerous buildings, aqueducts and both vertical and horizontal water wheels which once powered the mine operations. There is also a significant unexcavated temple site on a nearby mountaintop, which is said to predate Monte Alban and is used by villagers for ceremonies marking the spring and autumnal equinoxes. Lastly, the hiking trail linking Lachatao to Latuvi is perhaps the loveliest of all the trails in the Pueblos Mancomunados. Lachatao sits at an elevation of nearly 7,000 feet and so has notably cooler temperatures. Be sure to dress appropriately. Motion sickness alert! The ride to and from Lachatao may induce dizzyness.
Time frame: 8:30 am Saturday through 5 pm on Monday / Hikes along dirt roads or on footpaths through the forest to nearby villages or the scenic ruins of old mines / Hike distances vary, as does the difficulty of the terrain / Exposure: mix of sun & shade / Rating: moderate to difficult
La Neveria to Latuvi Mountain
20 Nov 2023 / 1 Mar 2024
If hiking downhill is your cup of tea, then this outing is for you! This combination of hiking path and dirt road leads from La Neveria to Latuvi, both villages in the Pueblos Mancomunados, dropping 539 meters in elevation and crossing the Rio Guacamayas along the way. The hike is rated difficult because of the terrain and the length of the walk. Note that this is a point-to-point hike, so there is no turning back. Native guides are required, and there is a 60 peso admission fee. Sack lunch required. Motion sickness alert! The ride to La Neveria and back from Latuvi may induce dizzyness.
Time frame: 8:30 am to 5:30 pm / Distance: 6.8 miles (10.95 km) / Elevation change: downhill to river crossing 1770 feet (539.5 meters); then up 790 feet (241 meters) to Latuvi / Highest elevation: 8980 feet (2737 meters) / Type: point to point / Trail: mix of dirt road and forest path / Exposure: Mostly shade / Rating: moderate to difficult
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Latuvi to Lachatao Mountain
8 Dec 2023 / 5 Jan 2024
Latuvi is a Zapotec village situated at 8003 feet (2439 meters) atop a mountain ridge in the Sierra Norte 58 kilometers (36 miles) northeast of Oaxaca city. It is one of the eight small towns in the Pueblos Mancomunados and offers several trails which appeal to hikers, backpackers and mountain bikers. Cabins are available for overnight guests. There is a fee of 60 pesos to get permission to explore the area, and guides are available to take visitors through the woods. The three principal trails are one that runs through the woods to La Neveria, another that connects with Lachatao, and a third which leads to a scenic waterfall. The trail to Lachatao goes 8.7 miles (14 kilometers) and runs mainly downhill, except for the final segment going from the river valley up to Lachatao. A hike on this route may be either one-way or an out & back trek to avoid needing to arrange a shuttle. Be warned that the trail out of Latuvi drops steeply down the mountainside (with a gradient of 19% to 21%) and is badly eroded. It is a challenging descent and a lung-burner on the climb back up!
Time frame: 8:30 am to 5:30 pm / Distance: 14 kms (8.7 miles) round trip to half-way point; same distance for one way hike all the way to Lachatao / Elevation change: 621 meters (2037 feet) down and up on out & back / Highest elevation: 2439 meters (8003 feet) / Lowest point: 2093 meters (6868 feet) / Type: out & back or one way / Trail: mostly foot path through the woods / Exposure: mix of sun and deep forest shade / Rating: difficult because of steepness of trail and length of hike
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Llano de las Flores Mountain
10 Jan & 6 Mar 2024
Llano de las Flores is no more than a wide spot along Highway 175 two and a half hours drivetime north of Oaxaca (about 40 minutes beyond Ixtlan de Juarez). Nestled in a lovely high mountain valley with lush pastures and surrounded by dense old-growth forests, this is a great destination for those seeking solitude, either on a day hike or for a stay of several days at the cabins in the ecotourism park there. The loop trail features two small caves, a lovely mirador and two waterfalls. Be warned, though, that this hike will put your stamina to the test. There is a fee of 130 pesos per person for native guides. Sack lunch required. Motion sickness alert! The ride to and from Llano de las Flores may induce dizzyness.
Time frame: 8:30 am to 6 pm / Distance: 7.7 km (4.8 miles) / Highest elevation: 2955 M (9695 Ft) / Elevation gain & loss 156 M (512 Feet) / Type: Loop / Trail: mix of logging roads and forest paths / Exposure: Mix of sun & shade / Rating: moderate to difficult
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Llano Grande Mountain
29 Dec 2023 / 26 Jan 2024
The small village of Llano Grande in the Sierra Norte mountains is a bit like the Hobbit village in Middle Earth – it is a place with a special charm. One of the eight villages in the Pueblos Mancomunados, Llano Grande welcomes hikers and mountain bikers to explore the trails and back roads that wander through the dense forests surrounding the community. There is an admission fee of 60 pesos and native guides must be hired to guide visitors through the woods. Sack lunch required. Motion sickness alert! The ride to and from Llano Grande may induce dizzyness.
Time frame: 8:30 am to 4:30 pm / Distance: 8.85 km (5.5 miles) / Elevation change: 145 meters (475 feet) / Highest elevation: 3070 M (10,071 Ft) / Type: Loop / Trail: mix of dirt road and forest path / Exposure: Mix of sun & shade / Rating: moderate
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Llano Grande Overnight Trip
Not scheduled this season.
Of all the places in the Pueblos Mancomunados, Llano Grande has the most rustic feel and the lushest rain forest. At over 10,000 feet (3046 meters) in altitutude, it is also the highest. Hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding are the chief outlets for those looking for some exercise; reading or wandering about the village are occupations that appeal to the more sedentary visitor. The staff at the ecotourism camp will be happy to help you enjoy your weekend stay in the community. Motion sickness alert! The ride to and from Llano Grande may induce dizzyness.
Time frame: 8:30 am Saturday through 5 pm on Sunday / Hikes along dirt roads or on footpaths through the lush forest, along creeks and to a scenic mountaintop overlook or a cascada / Hike distances vary, as does the difficulty of the terrain / Exposure: mix of sun & shade / Rating: moderate to difficult
Mitla Caves Archeological & Countryside
11 Dec 2023
One might argue this is by far our longest hike — if measured by going back in time rather than in physical distance traveled. Elementary school kids are taught that the cradle of modern civilization is the Mesopotamian valley between the Tigris and Euphrates river where ancient Sumer was located. This is where wheat, barley, lentils, garlic and onions were domesticated 7,000 years ago, marking the beginning of the agricultural age. However, archeologists now know that the caves around Yagul and Mitla were occupied 7,000 years ago by people who had already domesticated corn and beans, as corn cobs and bean seeds were found there. And the great granddaddy of them all — domesticated squash — has been dated in local caves to 10,000 years ago! On today’s outing we will visit five caves located in hillsides just 3 miles (4.8 kms) from Mitla which were likely used as shelters by the forebears of today’s Zapotec people. There is an admission fee of 50 pesos per person and local guides must be hired through the “Bienes Comunales” office in Mitla. The group will stop for lunch at any of several restaurants in Tule after the hike.
Time frame: 8:30 am to 2:45 pm / Distance: 2.0 kms (1.3 miles) round trip / Elevation gain & loss: 111 meters (365 feet) / Type: loop trail / Trail: challenging hiking trail on steep hillsides with lots of steps and lose footing / Exposure: mostly sun / Rating: very difficult — on account of terrain and close quarters in caves
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Sabinos Trail Countryside
27 Nov 2023 / 24 Jan & 20 Mar 2024
The little town of Igriega (“Y” in English – yes, that is really its name) sits in a pleasant valley along the Atoyac river some 69 kilometers (43 miles) from Oaxaca. Huge Sabinos trees line the banks of the stream, giving name to this hike. You will enjoy the peace and solitude of the place as you amble along the trail. It is a long drive to Igriega from Oaxaca, but past participants in this hike say it is definitely worth the travel time. Be sure to pack a sack lunch and bring plenty of water.
Time frame: 8:30 am to 4:00 / Distance: 9.5 Km (6 miles) / Elevation change: 131 meters (430 feet) / Type: out & back / Trail: some single track but mostly unpaved road / Exposure: mix of sun and shade.
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San Agustin Etla Countryside
Not scheduled this season.
San Agustin is blessed with a ready supply of fresh water, which is captured from a mountain stream and channeled into the city in an aqueduct. We will hike along the aqueduct going 3.0 miles uphill, gradually rising into one of the valleys nearby to the ruins of a hydroelectric plant built near the turn of the last century. While the hike has a very moderate gradient of just 1%, it is 6.0 miles round trip and there is no option to step off the trail and hail a cab if you tire. Still, this is one of our favorite outings. At the end of the hike, the Cultural Center in the old textile mill is well worth a visit, and it is free. The paper factory nearby is also an interesting place to visit. There will be a 50 pesos fee imposed to hike this trail, which includes a guide. You will want to pack a sack lunch to enjoy when we reach the ruins of the hydroelectric plant, which is our turnaround point.
Time frame: 8:30 am to 3:00 pm / Distance: 9.65 Km (6.0 Mi) / Elevation change: 61 M (200 Ft) gain & loss / Highest elevation: 1938 M (6361 Ft) / Type: out & back / Trail: footpath with some tricky crossings on narrow ridges / Exposure: mostly full sun / Rating: moderate
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San Bartolomé Quialana to San Marcos Tlapazola Countryside
Not scheduled this season.
The quaint village of San Bartolomé Quialina abuts the mountains on the south side of the Tlacolula valley. It and neighboring San Marcos Tlapazola seem lost in time. We will travel the road between them, doubtless catching sight of local women in their distinctive dress tending their flocks or working the the fields. In San Marcos, hikers can visit the workshops where red pottery is produced and others where local women embroider intricate designs on aprons, blouses and shirts. After the hike, the group will stop in Tlacolula to visit the church, where the statues, paintings and other ornaments in the elaborately baroque side chapel were restored in 2011. Then we will adjourn to the city market across the street for lunch at any of several restaurants or food stands there.
Time frame: 8:30 am to 1:30 pm / Distance: 3.7 Km (2.3 Mi) / Elevation change: uphill 224 feet (68.3 meters) & downhill 372 feet (113 meters) / Type: point to point / Trail: city streets and dirt roads / Exposure: full sun / Rating: easy
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San Cristobal Countryside
Not scheduled this season.
The tiny hamlet of San Cristobal, like its neighbor, Cuatro Venados, sits near the top of the mountain ridge which forms the western wall of the Etla Valley a few miles west of Monte Alban. Situated 17 miles from the center of Oaxaca at an elevation of 7192 feet, it is the jumping-off point for this 5.2 mile hike through the countryside. The initial 2.2 miles of our trek is along a rather steep (consistent 12% grade) dirt road that winds into the isolated valley below. People with weak knees or ankles are advised this part of the hike may be a challenge! Once near the valley floor, we will hike along a stream that meanders toward and eventually joins the Atoyac River. We will need to cross the stream seven times on our descent, so some rock-hopping skill is required. We will enjoy a sack lunch at the end of our hike before venturing back into the city. Motion sickness alert! The ride to San Cristobal may induce dizzyness.
Time frame: 8:30 am to 2:45 pm / Distance: 8.4 Km (5.2 Mi) / Elevation change: downhill 516 meters (1694 feet) & uphill 51 meters (167 feet) / Type: point to point / Trail: country roads and jeep trail / Exposure: mostly sun / Rating: difficult
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San Jose del Pacifico Overnight Trip
Not scheduled this season.
San Jose del Pacifico, population 800, sits at over 8200 feet elevation in the Sierra del Sur mountains a three-hour drive south of Oaxaca city. It is sometimes called the magic mushroom capital of the state and attracts a good number of hippies looking to get high on something more than the altitude. The mountains are densely forested and incredibly steep. From some vantage points you can see the Pacific ocean in the distance – when the view is not obscured by clouds, which is most of the time. San Jose tends to be cold, with lots of fog and rain, so visitors should pack warm clothes and rain gear. There are numerous logging roads and hiking trails in the area. Group lodging is available at the Puesta del Sol or Rancho Viejo resorts just a short distance down the highway. There are lots of eateries and curio shops in town.
Time frame: 8:30 am Saturday through 5:00 pm on Monday / Hikes along dirt roads or on footpaths through the forest / Hike distances vary, as does the difficulty of the terrain / Exposure: mix of sun & shade / Rating: moderate to difficult
San Miguel del Valle – El Pedimento Trail Mountain
26 Feb 2024
San Miguel del Valle is another gateway to the high country of the Sierra Norte mountains. This village is tucked away in a fold of the mountains on the north side of the Tlacolula valley, and can be reached by going north from Tlocolula, through Diaz Ordaz and continuing upvalley. For this outing we will hike the “El Pedimento” trail in the forest at an elevation of 10,000 feet. Be prepared for cooler temperatures and the possibility of fog and drizzle. There is an admission fee of 50 pesos per person to hike on communal land, and local guides must be hired to accompany the group. We will enjoy a sack lunch while admiring the panoramic view from the mirador. Motion sickness alert! The ride to and from the mountains above San Miguel del Valle may induce dizzyness.
Time frame: 8:30 am to 3:00 pm / Distance: 2.9 Km (1.8 Mi) round trip / Elevation change: 183 M (600 Ft) gain & loss / Type: loop / Trail: forest paths / Exposure: mix of sun and shade / Highest point: 3139 meters (10,300 feet) / Rating: moderate to difficult – some steep sections at high elevation / Suggestion: use a hiking pole
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San Pablo Etla Countryside
Not scheduled this season.
The village of San Pablo is practically a suburb in the Etla valley on the north side of Oaxaca. Like most nearby towns, it has parklands in the hills rising above the city. This year our hike will follow one of the many trails in the area prized by local mountain bikers and used for an annual race. The route will follow the contours of the land running at the foot of the mountains rising up on the north side of the town. Admission fee of 30 pesos.
Time frame: 8:30 am to 2:00 pm / Distance: 5.6 Km (3.5 Mi) / Elevation change: 180 M (590 Ft) gain & loss / Highest elevation: 1800 M (5905 Ft) / Type: loop / Trail: combination single track trail and dirt road / Exposure: mix of sun & shade / Rating: moderate
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San Sebastian de las Grutas Cave
Not scheduled this season.
This is the most unusual of the hikes in the “Hoofing It In Oaxaca” program. We will drive 2.5 hours south of Oaxaca to San Sebastian, then visit the cavern in the hillside there. The cave is in its natural state, with no lighting, railings or walkways. Local guides will provide flashlights and show us the way (but it doesn’t hurt to bring your own lights, if you have them). The cave has wide passageways and a high ceiling, so it is relatively easy to negotiate. However, there are some steep inclines and the floor can be slippery when wet. There are also significant steps to get to and from the cavern. Admission to the cave will cost 40 pesos per person. Sack lunch required.
Time frame: 8:30 am to 5:00 pm / Distance: 3 Km (1.8 Mi) / Elevation change: 90 M (300 Ft) / Type: loop / Trail: unimproved cave floor / Exposure: no sun (It’s a cave!) / Rating: moderate
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Santa Ana del Valle Countryside
Not scheduled this season.
The community museum in the town square in Santa Ana will be the starting point of this hike up a hill just outside town to the site of some unexcavated ruins. There is a very nice view of the Tlacolula valley from the top of the hill. Getting some fresh air and exercise is the main point of today’s venture. Be forewarned that the trail has a loose and rocky tread, and is perhaps the most difficult climb in the hiking program. We will need to hire local guides to accompany us to the top of the hill. After the hike the group will stop in Tlacolula for lunch at the food court in the city market.
Time frame: 8:30 am to 4:00 pm / Distance: 6.95 Km (4.32 Mi) / Elevation change: 493.5 M (1619 Ft) climb / High point: 2143.3 meters (7032 feet) / Type: out & back / Trail: steep, rocky footpath / Exposure: full sun / Rating: very difficult because of steep, rocky trail with loose gravel underfoot
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Santiago Tenango Countryside
18 Dec 2023 / 2 Feb 2024
This hike, new in 2022, takes visitors far into beautiful country with grand rolling hills and deep canyons. Near the end of a two-hour drive we pass through the isolated villages of Cieneguilla, Carbonera and finally Santiago Tenango. Our trailhead is a spot on a rough jeep road which winds through the hills, totally isolated from civilization. This hike is the only one in the program exploring trails in the Mixteca region of Oaxaca state. Caution: this is a tough hike. Hiking poles are required. Once you start the hike you can turn back anywhere, but there are no mototaxis or colectivos to give you a ride back to the trailhead. Lunch stop after the hike at a rustic rural restaurant with great vistas. Motion sickness alert! The ride to and from Santiago Tenango may induce dizzyness.
Time frame: 8:30 am to 5:00 pm / Distance: 7.4 Km (4.6 Mi) / Elevation change: 186 M (612 Ft) loss and equal gain / Type: out & back / Trail: rough country lane / Exposure: full sun / Rating: very difficult / Recommendation – definitely take hiking poles
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Santo Domingo Tomaltepec Countryside
3 Jan & 29 Mar 2024
Today’s outing will be a trek that begins on a country road and then devolves into a footpath in a mountain valley near Santo Domingo. We will begin at the upper of two lakes which provide water for the town and wend our way gradually uphill into a wooded valley. No archeological gems or great vistas today; just a very pleasant walk with nature. Be forewarned that there are twenty stream crossings along the way, so wear shoes that can get wet and still be comfortable to walk in, or wear sandals and splash merrily through the water! After the hike, we will stop for lunch at a restaurant in Tule. There is a 20 peso charge to hike through communal property.
Time frame: 8:30 am to 3:30 pm / Distance: 10.0 Km (6.2 Mi) / Elevation change: 279 M (915 Ft) / Type: out & back / Trail: dirt road & footpath / Exposure: 70% sun & 30% shade / Rating: easy to moderate / Suggestion: wear sandals and using hiking poles for stream crossings
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Santo Tomas Mazaltepec to San Felipe Tejalápam Countryside
15 Dec 2023
Both of these small farming communities lie in the northwest quadrant of the Etla Valley and neither see many foreign visitors, though they are not far from the capital city. Our hike today is a 5.7 mile trek through the rolling countryside between the two villages. Our route will follow an unpaved country road up and over a ridge of hills separating two parts of the Etla Valley. A sack lunch is required. Note that this hike may be a point-to-point trek connecting the two villages or an out & back excursion starting from either end, then stopping for a sack lunch at the highest point before turning around for a return to the starting point.
Time frame: 8:30 am to 2:30 pm / Distance: 9.2 kms (5.7 miles) / Elevation change: 208 meters (682 feet) of climbing & 223 meters (731 feet) of downhill / Trail: mostly unpaved and little-used country road / Exposure: full sun / Rating: moderate to difficult
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Tlalixtac – Los Molinos Trail Countryside
13 Dec 2023 / 31 Jan 2024
Tlalixtac is a village in the countryside 5.5 miles to the east of Oaxaca city. Blessed with large land holdings in the foothills and ample water supplies, Tlalixtac is popular with people looking for a place to build a home close to the capital but away from the traffic and noise of the big city.
We will hike in one of the nearby valleys that drain from the Sierra Norte mountains into the Tlacolula valley. The trail was originally a footpath that wound uphill through the woods parallel to a stream and with Highway 175 on the hillside opposite. Beginning in 2022, though, the trail was widened and paved part way. We will pass by the ruins of a small water-powered mill where grain was once processed. At one time there were seven such mills along the stream – hence the plural name of the trail. We are likely to encounter local woodcutters returning to town with their donkeys loaded with firewood. There is a charge to hike in Tlalixtac territory, which varies from year to year – it is 50 pesos in 2023. We will stop for lunch after the hike at one of the pleasant restaurants clustered around the two presas in Huayapam.
Time frame: 8:30 am to 2:30 pm / Distance: 9.5 Km (5.9 Mi) / Elevation gain: 145 M (480 Ft) / Type: out & back / Trail: dirt road and footpath / Exposure: 50/50 mix of sun & shade / Rating: easy to moderate / Coordinates: N 17 04.771 W 96 37.667
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Tlalixtac – Mil Rios Trail Countryside
6 Dec 2023 / 21 Feb 2024
The Mil Rios Trail runs 9 miles (14.5 kms) from high in the Sierra Norte near the village of La Neveria down to Tlalixtac in the Tlacolula valley, dropping 3768 feet (1148 meters) along the way. Today’s hike will cover just 3.0 miles of that distance (6.0 miles round trip) along the lowest part of the trail, which we will access just a few miles from Tlalixtac. This will be a moderate hike, using first the service road going to five small dams strung along the creek, then a hiking and biking trail going further up the valley. The trail will gain just 716 feet (218 meters) in elevation going to our turnaround point. The most challenging feature will be the fourteen creek crossings we will encounter going each direction – though these will be easy enough if the creek has little water in it. There is a fee to hike in Tlalixtac territory, which varies from year to year – it was 50 pesos in 2023. We will stop for lunch after the hike at one of the pleasant restaurants clustered around the two presas in Huayapam.
Time frame: 8:30 am to 2:30 pm / Distance: 9.6 Kms (6.0 Mi) / Elevation gain: 218 M (716 Ft) / Type: out & back / Trail: dirt road and forest footpath / Exposure: 50/50 mix of sun and shade / Rating: moderate / Suggestion: hiking pole(s) may help with creek crossings
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Union Zapata Caves Archeological & Countryside
Not scheduled this season
There are literally dozens of caves in the hills to the north of the village of Union Zapata, which has been charged with protecting the most important ones because they are UNESCO world heritage sites (so designated in August 2010). These include the Guilá Naquitz cave, where archeologists unearthed signs of human habitation dating back over 10,000 years, and where squash seeds are the earliest signs of an agrarian culture anywhere on the continent. This same cave provided the earliest known samples of domesticated maize, the principal food crop of the region. Another nearby cave, Las Machines, contains some fine examples of ancient rock paintings. Hiking to these and other nearby caves is extremely difficult because of the steep terrain and the lack of well-defined trails. An admission fee must be paid at the office in Union Zapata, and guides must be hired to take visitors to the caves. Sack lunch required.
Time frame: 8:30 am to 5:30 pm / Distance: 10.0 km (6.2 miles) / Elevation gain & loss: 445 meters (1460 feet) / Type: out & back or loop / Trail: dirt roads and ill-defined footpaths / Exposure: mostly full sun / Rating: extremely difficult because of terrain and length
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West Etla Valley Countryside & Archeological
29 Nov 2023 / 8 Mar 2024
The scenic rolling hill country of the western Etla Valley harbors a number of roads and trails which are a delight to hike. This outing starts at a remote spot, follows a pleasant stream down a valley running to the southeast and eventually terminates at the ruins of the monastery in Cuilapam, begun in 1556 but never completed. You will enjoy the serene beauty of this agricultural area and the grace of the monastery ruins. After the hike we will stop for an impressive buffet lunch at the Hacienda Cuilapam before returning to Oaxaca.
Time frame: 8:30 am to 3:30 pm / Distance: 7.7 Kms (4.8 Miles) / Elevation change: gradual descent totaling 128 meters (420 feet) / Type: point to point / Trail: mostly dirt road with two stream crossings / Exposure: mix of sun and shade / Rating: easy
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Yagul to Diaz Ordaz Archeological & Countryside
8 Nov 2023 / 22 Jan 2024
The Zapotec palace ruins at Yagul are located in one of the loveliest settings in the area. The group will linger there for about an hour to afford people a chance to explore the archeological site. You will want to visit the underground triple tomb in one of the open plazas and wander the labyrinth of passageways in the palace complex. Most visitors will also want to climb to the top of the fortress rock to enjoy the view from there. Then we will hike 4.4 miles (7.1 kms) through open country to the village of Diaz Ordaz, where we will stop for lunch. Pack a sack lunch or munch on items from a local miscelanea, where cold beverages are available. The admission fee at Yagul, which is open daily from 8 am to 5 pm, is 75 pesos (as of 2023). Admission is free to those with an INAPAM (senior citizen’s) card.
Time frame: 8:30 am to 2:30 pm / Distance: 7.1 Km (4.4 Mi) / Elevation change: gradual ascent of 127 meters (418 feet) / Type: point to point / Trail: footpaths & dirt roads / Exposure: full sun / Rating: easy to moderate
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Zaachila to Cuilapam Archeological & Countryside
Not scheduled this season.
We will spend about an hour exploring the archeological ruins located just a block off the town square in Zaachila. Most of the temple and palace complex has not been excavated. However the tomb of Lord Nine Flower has been, and there is a small museum on site. Then we will hike through town and overland in the countryside to Cuilapam, where we will wander through the ruins of a grand monastery, begun in 1555 but never completed. The admission fee to the archeological in Zaachila is 45 pesos; the same amount will gain you entrance to the cloister area of the monastery at Cuilapam, the second floor of which is used to identify, catalog and store artifacts taken from archeological digs in the area. The group will stop for lunch at the Hacienda Cuilapam, which offers an incredible all-you-can-eat buffet for 160 pesos, plus drinks. Be sure to click on the “More Information” link, below, to view a great deal more material about the history and legends of Zaachila and Cuilapam. Also note this hike can just as easily run in the opposite direction, in which case lunch will be at the mercado gastronomico on the west side of Zaachila, just a block from the end point of the hike.
Time frame: 8:30 am to 3:30 pm / Distance: 7.4 Km (4.6 Mi) / Elevation change: very slight / Type: point to point / Trail: city sidewalks & streets, unpaved roads / Exposure: full sun / Rating: moderate
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Zegache to San Antonino Cultural & Countryside
Saturday / 4 November 2022 at 11 am – Special “Day of the Dead” hike – Note Saturday date & 11 o’clock departure time!
The renowned painter, Rodolfo Morales, hailed from Ocotlan de Morelos and used his wealth and influence for the betterment of that community some 21 miles (34 km) south of Oaxaca city. Today’s hike through the countryside will begin at the parish church in Santa Ana Zegache, which Mr. Morelos restored and decorated. It will conclude at the cemetery in San Antonino Castillo Velasco where the local townspeople will be busy decorating the graves of departed family members. They postpone their Day of the Dead vigil to November 4 because they are busy earlier selling the flowers used in other communities to grace their cemeteries on 31 October and 1 or 2 November.
Day of the Dead special feature! The cemetery in San Antonino will be a busy place on November 4 as families decorate the graves of their loved ones with elaborate flower tapestries or sand paintings. People on today’s hike will spend an hour or so visiting the cemetery, which lies along the way to Ocotlan. Note that this HIKE is not the same event as the Lending Library’s OUT & ABOUT cemetery bus tour happening on the same day!
Time frame: 11:00 am to 5:30 pm / Distance: 6.0 miles (9.6 km) / Elevation change: very slight, with 257 feet (78 meters) of gain and 125 feet (38 meters) of loss along the route / Type: point to point / Trail: mostly dirt roads in the country and pavement in the city / Exposure: full sun / Rating: easy
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Zegache to Tilcajete Cultural & Countryside
Tuesday / 13 February 2024 – Special Mardi Gras hike – Note Tuesday date!
The little village of San Martín Tilcajete, 15.5 mi / 25 km south of Oaxaca city, is where most of the fanciful wooden alebrijes which abound in local markets are carved and painted. It is the destination for today’s hike, which begins in the neighboring village of Zegache, 3 miles (4.8 km) distant across productive farmland where many of the vegetables sold in Oaxaca’s markets are grown. For its part, Zegache is home to a church rebuilt and painted by the renowned artist Rodolfo Morales of Ocotlan. Today’s hike will commence at the restored church and then proceed on unpaved country lanes. The terrain is nearly flat, with a gain in elevation of only 191 feet along the way. Once arrived in Tilcajete, we’ll pay a visit to some of the many workshops lining the main street where locals (often husband & wife teams) produce alebrijes. Afterwards, we will stop for lunch at a local restaurant on the way back to Oaxaca.
Mardi Gras special feature! Participants on this hike will get a special treat, as they will encounter costumed residents of Tilcajete cavorting through the streets in celebration of Shrove Tuesday. You will definitely want to bring your camera for this! And be sure to wear old clothes, as you are likely to get grease paint smears on your garments, courtesy of the rowdy merrymakers.
Time frame: 8:30 am to 3:30 pm / Distance: 4.8 Km (3.0 Mi) / Elevation change: 58 M (191 Ft) gain / Type: point to point / Trail: city streets & dirt roads / Exposure: full sun / Rating: easy / Lunch: at restaurant on way home
(Click here for more information about this outing)
Hike Sign-Up
Reservations are required for all hikes and weekend trips, as we must make appropriate arrangements for transportation. Reservations are accepted until midnight three days before any given hike. Reservations may be made online at the Lending Library’s “Online Store”, which can be accessed at https://www.oaxlibrary.org/online-store. Follow the directions posted there. Reservations may also be made in person at the circulation desk at the Library. All reservations must be paid for at the time they are registered. Refunds can be requested for day hikes if notice of cancellation is received a week before the hike date. Cancellations for weekend overnight trips can receive refunds only if notice is given at least ten days before the trip, due to the complexity of making lodging arrangements.
Approximately one week before the scheduled hike you will receive an e-mail containing additional information about that particular outing.
Since many of our hikes are “sold out,” please be sure to cancel your reservation if your plans change so that someone else will have the opportunity to take your place.
Lastly, if the hike you are interested in is listed as “Sold Out” and you cannot make a reservation, consider showing up at the rendezvous point (southeast corner of Llano Park) at about 8:40 am to sign up as a walk-in customer. We usually have two or three no-shows the morning of the outing, so there may be seats available on the van at the last minute.