The Pico del Águila and the Cruz del Marqués, in the Cumbres del Ajusco National Park, are two of Mexico City’s highest and most popular summits. The highest of the two is Cruz del Marqués, which stands at 3,923 meters high. Both peaks have amazing panoramic views of the city and nearby volcanoes. These views are, undoubtedly, the best reward for those who set out to climb these peaks. They are located to the south of Mexico City.

Among the national parks located in CDMX’s surroundings, there is the Desierto de los Leones National Park. It was one of the first forests to be declared a protected natural area in the capital of Mexico. Its highest point is 3,754 meters above sea level on San Miguel’s hill, making it one of the most visited places in this nature reserve. One of the most well-known trails is the one which goes up San Miguel hill from the old Desierto de los Leones convent.

The Xitle volcano is located in the Cumbres del Ajusco National Park. This extinct volcano, whose eruption formed the iconic Pedregal lava fields, has a crater which can be reached on foot along with natural caves. The volcanic richness of this place turns it into one of the most popular places for people seeking adventure along hiking trails in CDMX. It is important to be well-equipped to be able to enter these caves.

The Ejidal San Nicolas Totolapan Park is a rather popular destination for those who enjoy walking in nature or even mountain biking. It is a place where one can find trails for all levels of difficulty. Starting at the park, one of the most amazing trails is the one that goes up to la Puerta del Cielo, in the Dinamos, by crossing the Aguaje Plains. Do not forget to bring proper gear for climbing the section known as “las escaleras” (the ladders).

Mount Tlaloc is an inactive volcano located east of Mexico City and it offers astounding panoramic views of the Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl volcanoes. Mount Tlaloc is valuable both archaeologically and culturally. At its peak, at 4,120 meters high, are the remains of an ancient temple dedicated to Tlaloc, the god of rain, where ceremonies were performed and alms bestowed to ensure a good harvest. The Mount Tlaloc climb is one of the best volcanic trails in Mexico.

One of the can’t-miss proposals near the Mexico’s capital for hiking enthusiasts is the trail from the calm waters of the Llano Dam to the remarkable rock formations of La Bufa. This mountain is located to the west of Mexico City and it is famous for the rock formations at its peak. To reach the highest point, extreme caution must be taken while on the section of steps attached to the rock.

Near Segundo Dinamo, one of the most popular hiking trails is the one that goes to the Zazacapa Viewpoint passing by the Sehuaya Cascade. Along the path among the forests, you quickly come across the Sehuaya Cascade where the sound of the water and the surrounding vegetation offer a calm and serene corner. From there, the path goes on until the Zazacapa Viewpoint, which pays off with views of green mountains and meadows as far as the eye can see.

The Cieneguillas Dam is a tranquil reservoir surrounded by mountains in the Serra de las Cruces. This destination is perfect for those who seek a walk to enjoy nature. The dam, the source of the Magdalena River, is the perfect spot for resting during a pretty excursion from Cuarto Dinamo before heading back down the trail. This trail, whether on the way up or down, edges along the river bank, whose rim varies greatly from the dry to the rainy seasons.

La Sierra de Guadalupe, located north of Mexico City, is one of the capital’s green lungs. This mountainous region boasts many of the most beautiful viewpoints of Mexico City. It is an ideal place for excursions on foot just a few kilometers away from an urban setting. Its highest point is the Tres Padres Peak (3,005 m), also known as Sombrero hill. Some parts of this mountain range are commonly visited at night by hikers and runners.