Mexico City (Ciudad de México, CDMX) is one of the largest and most vibrant metropolises in the world, serving as the political, cultural, and economic heart of Mexico. This ancient city, built on the ruins of the Aztec capital Tenochtitlan, blends pre-Hispanic heritage with colonial architecture and ultramodern neighborhoods. From world-class museums and gourmet restaurants to bustling markets and stunning murals, Mexico City offers an unparalleled urban experience.
Top trails
Routes worth lacing up your boots for.
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1
Cerro del Ajusco Summit Trail
The highest point within Mexico City's boundaries at 3,930 meters, Cerro del Ajusco is a dormant volcanic peak offering spectacular views over Mexico City, the Valley of Mexico, and surrounding volcanoes including Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl. The trail begins at the Paraje Los Padres trailhead in Tlalpan and ascends through pine-oak forest to the rocky summit.
Trailhead: Paraje Los Padres, Tlalpan — accessible by Uber (approx. $150 MXN from Tlalpan centro)
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2
Desierto de los Leones Forest Trails
Mexico City's oldest national park (established 1917) features extensive Oyamel fir and pine forests crisscrossed by trails around a 17th-century Carmelite monastery. The cool forested setting at 2,850m feels worlds away from the urban sprawl below.
Trailhead: Main parking area near the Monasterio del Carmen — best accessed by car or Uber ($200 MXN from Condesa)
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3
Xochimilco Ecological Park Wetland Walk
A network of flat trails through the wetland and chinampa (floating garden) zone of Xochimilco, offering birdwatching opportunities with over 100 documented species including herons, kingfishers, and cormorants. The axolotl salamander inhabits these canals.
Trailhead: Main entrance near Ciénaga Grande — accessible from Xochimilco centro
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4
Pedregal de San Ángel Ecological Reserve
A unique ecological reserve within the UNAM campus, protecting 237 hectares of lava field created by the eruption of the Xitle volcano approximately 2,000 years ago. The volcanic pedregal hosts over 2,000 plant and animal species.
Trailhead: UNAM campus — Metro Line 3 to Copilco or Universidad stations
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5
Bosque de Chapultepec Walking Trails
Mexico City's vast urban park encompasses 686 hectares with extensive walking and jogging paths through three sections. Trails wind through woodland, around lakes, and through botanical areas.
Trailhead: Multiple entrances — Metro Line 1 (Chapultepec) or Line 7 (Auditorio)
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6
Cerro Zacatépetl Trail
A modest volcanic hill in the southern Xochimilco borough offering panoramic views over the Xochimilco canals, the urban expanse, and on clear days the great volcanoes to the east. A lesser-known alternative to Ajusco.
Trailhead: Santa Cruz Acalpixca village, Xochimilco — accessible by Uber or Tren Ligero
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7
Parque Ecológico de Xochitla
A large ecological park just north of Mexico City's boundary offering extensive gardens, wetland areas, and walking trails. Features a butterfly house, tree canopy walkway, lake, and native plant gardens.
Trailhead: Main entrance, Xochitla — best by car or Uber from Tepotzotlán
Trail difficulty levels
Pick a route that matches your fitness and experience.
Mostly flat, well-marked paths. Suitable for families and casual walkers.
Some elevation gain, longer distances. Requires basic fitness.
Significant climbs and exposure. Requires good fitness and route-finding.
Technical terrain, scrambling, or alpine conditions. Experience essential.
Local hazards
What to watch out for on the trail.
Sudden weather changes — always carry rain gear and warm layers.
Wildlife encounters — make noise on the trail and store food properly.
Trail conditions can deteriorate after rain — check recent reports before setting out.