Top 10 Hiking Trails in Puerto Vallarta: A Comprehensive Guide

1. Boca de Tomatlán to Las Animas Trail

Difficulty: Moderate
Trail Length: 3.5 miles (5.6 km)
Why Go: This coastal trail offers a mix of jungle scenery and ocean views, leading to the serene Las Animas Beach.
What to Expect: The trail meanders through lush jungle and along the coast, occasionally offering beautiful ocean glimpses. The route concludes at Las Animas Beach, perfect for a rest or swim.
Best For: Those seeking a balanced hike with both nature and beach time.

2. El Salto Waterfall Trail

Difficulty: Easy
Trail Length: 1.5 miles (2.4 km)
Why Go: This short trail leads to a stunning waterfall, making it an excellent choice for beginners or those with limited time.
What to Expect: The path is flat and simple, guiding you through a small forested area to a waterfall and natural pool.
Best For: Families, beginners, or anyone after a quick, scenic escape.

3. Mirador de la Cruz (The Cross Lookout)

Difficulty: Moderate
Trail Length: 1.8 miles (2.9 km)
Why Go: This short hike offers sweeping views of Puerto Vallarta and Banderas Bay from a hilltop vantage point.
What to Expect: The trail features a series of steep stairs, making the ascent a bit challenging, but the panoramic views at the top are well worth the effort. It's a prime spot for photos, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Best For: Hikers seeking a rewarding but short climb with spectacular views.

4. Monkey Mountain (Cerro del Mono)

Difficulty: Challenging
Trail Length: 4.3 miles (7 km)
Why Go: For seasoned hikers, Monkey Mountain offers tough terrain and panoramic views of the surrounding region.
What to Expect: Steep, rocky terrain requires significant effort, but the views from the summit of the coast and nearby towns are expansive and impressive.
Best For: Experienced hikers seeking a challenge and breathtaking vistas.

5. Palo Maria Waterfalls Trail

Difficulty: Moderate
Trail Length: 3.2 miles (5 km)
Why Go: This trail leads you through dense jungle to several stunning waterfalls, providing a peaceful escape from more crowded spots.
What to Expect: The rocky trail can be uneven, but it rewards you with tranquil waterfalls where you can cool off and relax.
Best For: Those who prefer a quieter, more natural hiking experience.

6. Marina Vallarta Mangrove Trail

Difficulty: Easy
Trail Length: 1.2 miles (1.9 km)
Why Go: A simple, flat trail through the mangrove ecosystem, ideal for birdwatching and nature observation.
What to Expect: A relaxed walk through shaded paths, with opportunities to spot a variety of bird species, crabs, and other wildlife.
Best For: Anyone looking for an easy, serene nature walk.

7. Cerro de la Bufa

Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Trail Length: 4.1 miles (6.6 km)
Why Go: For cooler mountain air and wide, sweeping views, Cerro de la Bufa offers a slightly more demanding hike.
What to Expect: The path is rocky and steep, leading you into the mountains where you'll enjoy views of Puerto Vallarta, the coastline, and surrounding mountains.
Best For: Hikers looking for a challenge and a different scenery from the coastal hikes.

8. Yelapa Waterfalls Hike

Difficulty: Easy
Trail Length: 1.7 miles (2.7 km)
Why Go: This gentle hike leads to two waterfalls in the peaceful village of Yelapa, offering a mix of nature and village exploration.
What to Expect: A mostly flat trail that ends at the waterfalls, with the option to explore Yelapa afterward, a quaint and tranquil village.
Best For: Those who want an easy hike paired with the chance to visit a charming, off-the-beaten-path village.

9. Los Arcos Trail

Difficulty: Moderate
Trail Length: 2 miles (3.2 km)
Why Go: This short trail offers views of the iconic Los Arcos rock formations, with an option for a boat tour afterward.
What to Expect: The hike is short but moderately steep, leading to a viewpoint of Los Arcos. From there, you can take a boat tour to get closer to the formations.
Best For: Hikers looking to combine a short hike with a boat trip and beautiful coastal views.

10. Mismaloya to Eden Trail

Difficulty: Moderate
Trail Length: 3.5 miles (5.6 km)
Why Go: This trail takes you through jungle terrain to a natural pool, made famous by the movie Predator.
What to Expect: The trail is rocky and uneven but rewards you with a swim in a natural pool. The route offers both jungle and river views along the way.
Best For: Movie buffs and adventurers wanting to end their hike with a refreshing dip.

Choosing the Right Trail for You
Not sure which hike suits your style? Here’s a quick breakdown:

• For Easy, Family-Friendly Trails: Consider Marina Vallarta Mangrove Trail or El Salto Waterfall Trail for simple, scenic walks.

• For Scenic Views with Moderate Difficulty: Try Mirador de la Cruz or Boca de Tomatlán to Las Animas for coastal and jungle views.

• For Rugged Terrain: Take on Monkey Mountain, Palo Maria Waterfalls, or Mismaloya to Eden Trail for more demanding hikes.

• For a Tranquil Hike: Yelapa Waterfalls Hike and Los Arcos Trail offer peaceful, picturesque experiences.

Conclusion
Puerto Vallarta’s hiking trails provide something for every type of adventurer. Whether you're after a leisurely walk through the mangroves or a challenging mountain climb, you’ll find the perfect trail to explore the region’s stunning natural landscapes. Select one of these top 10 hikes and enjoy a memorable outdoor experience.

Looking for more outdoor adventures in Puerto Vallarta? Check out our full guide for additional hiking spots and local recommendations.