Activities to do in El Yunque

The El Yunque National Forest is a national treasure and full of amazing sights and experiences. There are more activities available to do in El Yunque than you will have time for in one day. You can do scenic hikes, challenging hikes, swim in waterfalls, explore scenic views, and picnic at areas through the forest. If you want to do it all, plan your visit accordingly over multiple days. Remember that you will need a valid reservation for each day you wish to visit.

While visiting the forest, take part in “Pack In, Pack Out” where you take everything out of the forest that you brought in. Do not leave behind any items or trash and do not take anything from the forest. Take an insulated reusable water bottle and check out our Visiting El Yunque post to be better prepared for your trip.

You can also choose to do a guided tour if you do not have your own car or if you prefer an experienced local showing you around!

Hiking

There is no better activity to explore the nature of the rainforest and view the picturesque backdrops than to do a hike. Hiking takes you into areas of the rainforest that you would not be able to see without walking the trails. All of the trails in El Yunque are only accessible by foot. There are no bikes, motor vehicles, or horses allowed. Dogs must be leashed at all times.

• Mt Britton Trail – This trail is approximately 1.6 miles round-trip and is fairly moderate despite some steep areas. It will take around 45 minutes to complete and has three covered rest stations on the way up. It ends at the Mt Britton Observation Deck and also connects to the El Yunque Trail. Location: Road 191 near km 13
• El Yunque Trail – It starts from the Mt Britton Trail and takes you up to El Yunque Peak, one of the highest points in the rainforest. Embark on a beautiful journey to a peak with views in all directions. It is about 5.2 miles round-trip and can be muddy at times. Location: Road 191 km 12.0
• Los Pichachos – To get to the trailhead you will need to travel about 2 miles up the El Yunque Trail. We recommend making a pit stop at this easy, 0.2-mile hike before continuing onto El Yunque Peak. There is a section of steep stairs and it may be muddy, but leads to panoramic views. 
• La Coca Trail – La Coca is a very challenging, 3.6-mile (round trip) hike that you will get muddy on! The beginning of the trail takes you downhill and has an elevation change of 656 feet. The return trip is uphill and will require physical effort. The trail ends at the Rio Mayemes, a scenic river. Location: Road 191 km 8.5
• El Toro Wilderness Trail – El Toro is a 4.9-mile hike and will take you to the highest point of the rainforest. The trail is very challenging and steep and you will have to climb over rocks and fallen trees. You will experience the unique flora changing as you ascend up and panoramic views at the top. It is more secluded than the other trails and it is recommended not to stray off the main trail. Location: Road 186 km 10.8
• Angelito Trail – This trail is ideal for families with children and takes about 20 minutes each way. It ends at a natural pool in the Rio Mayemes that you can take a dip in and jump off a rope swing. Location: Road 988 km 3.6

Waterfalls & Swimming Areas

To fully enjoy your adventures in El Yunque, bring something to swim in and water shoes and take a dip in the refreshing waterfalls. You will experience bliss and thrill at the same time while submerged under the waterfalls or in the pools of water. The water is fairly cold, but It is an experience you do not want to miss out on!

• Juan Diego Creek – To get to the first waterfall, walk up the marked trail and you will end up at a beautiful waterfall. There are usually many people here, so it is best to visit early in the day. To get to the second waterfall, you will need to take a steep climb up another path. Just before you get to the first waterfall, look to your right and there will be a small, unmarked opening to a path that you can climb. It should take only about 5 minutes until you reach the next waterfall and it is such a sight to see! Location: PR191 at Km 9.6
• La Coca Falls – The falls are located shortly after you enter the reservation portion of El Yunque and fall about 85 feet. The parking is on the side of the road and can be crowded to get to. Nonetheless, the view driving by in your car is just as great! Location: Road 191 km 8.1
• Río Espíritu Santo Observation Point – To get here, cross the bridge over the river to view several waterfalls. If you climb behind the big rocks you will find a natural pool with a beautiful waterfall that you can submerge in. The rocks are slippery! Location: Road 186 km 18.9
• La Mina Falls – CURRENTLY CLOSED. You can take either La Mina Trail or Big Tree Trail to get to La Mina Falls. The waterfall drops over 35 feet through huge rocks into a natural pool where you can swim or relax and enjoy the views. La Mina Trail is the most popular and crowded so plan an early arrival time. Both trails to La Mina Falls are currently closed. Please visit the USDA Forest Service for the current status, as it can change at any time.

Scenic Drives & Outlooks

Most paths within El Yunque will be a scenic drive with views on one side and lush green vegetation on the other. Drive slow through the forest and take in all of the sights and sounds nature has to offer. 

• Yokahú Tower – This is a 69-foot tower with panoramic views of four types of forests: Colorado, Tabonuco, Palm, and Cloud Forest. Once you enter the tower you will climb a spiral staircase to the top – the climb should take about 5-10 minutes. You will also have views of the coastline all the way to the US Virgin Islands. The tower is open from 9AM – 4PM. Location: Road 191 km 8.8
• Baño Grande- In 1968, the 18-feet deep man made swimming pool was closed to swimmers due to safety concerns. While you can no longer swim in it, it is still open for scenic viewing. Location: across from Palo Colorado at PR 191, km. 11.9.
• PR Road 9966 – This scenic drive connects Road 186 to Road 191 at km. 6. During the drive through the forest, there is an observation point where you may have the opportunity to view parrots flying around! It is home to the Iguaca Parrot Aviary where the Puerto Rican Parrot is cared for and bred. The parrot is endangered and is the United States’ only native parrot. Location: Road 9966