Destinations Mexico
Camila Pérez B
Although most travelers might associate a trip to Mexico with sun-soaked beaches, turquoise waters, and street tacos, there’s another side to this vibrant country that remains unexplored for many. All the way to the north — just a stone’s throw from the bustling city of Monterrey — lies the natural reserve of Chipinque Park. A haven that’s brimming with untouched nature, hiking trails, panoramic views of the city, and plenty of wildlife, the park offers a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of the big city without having to go too far to get it.
Located just a 15-minute drive from downtown Monterrey, Chipinque Park — or Parque Ecológico Chipinque, in Spanish — shines for how accessible and convenient it actually is. For starters, a standard taxi from the center of town to the park will cost between MXN$100 and MXN$200, which is around $5 to $11 USD. Then, admission to the park will cost an additional MXN$80, or about $4 USD. The drive itself is also picturesque, with winding roads that climb up the mountain along the surrounding lush landscape.
Exploring Chipinque Park
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Open daily from 6 AM to 8 PM, Chipinque Park boasts more than 37 miles of trails and routes catering to various fitness levels. Whether you’re looking for an easy stroll, a challenging hike up to one of the park’s four peaks, or a cycling path that’ll get your heart racing as you speed downhill, you’re bound to find something to do.
One of the most popular trails will take you up to Mirador el Pinal. The five-mile there-and-back hike is relatively easy, with drinking fountains, tourist information, and plenty of wildlife sightings along the way. Once you reach the top, your efforts will reward you with unobstructed views of Monterrey. On the other hand, if you’re looking for an added challenge, climbing up to the peaks is a great opportunity to test your endurance. Keep in mind, however, that this activity incurs an additional fee and must be done between 6 a.m. and 8 a.m.
Speaking of wildlife, Chipinque Park is also a thriving ecosystem and home to more than 1,750 species of everything from fungi to birds, reptiles to mammals, and butterflies to birds. During your visit, you might encounter everything from deer to coatis — a raccoon-like critter, pictured above — and, if you’re lucky, even black bears. These animals have made the park their home due to its preserved environment and abundant food sources. In addition to these furry residents, the park is also aflutter with butterflies and birds, making it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts.
More tips for visiting Chipinque Park
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If you’re planning a day at the park, there are a few tips that can help make your visit a lot more comfortable. Firstly, make sure you’re wearing comfortable clothing and shoes with good grip. The trails are all unpaved, uneven, and typically uphill, meaning you’ll need the extra stability and support. Along with this, there’s always a chance of rain — which can make things a lot more slippery and muddy — so you might want to consider waterproofing your backpack or carrying a rain jacket with you.
Another important piece of advice has to do with anticipating temperature changes. Despite its warm daytime temperatures, Chipinque can get chilly in the evenings and early mornings — with temperatures dipping to 50°F in the summer and 41°F in the winter. That said, layering up is key — especially if you’re planning on spending the night.
Although camping isn’t allowed within the reserve, there’s a hotel on the premises that features an outdoor pool, tennis court, and restaurant. Conveniently named Hotel Chipinque, the resort is a great option if you’re looking to extend your stay and enjoy a serene mountain retreat a little longer.
