San José is a city surrounded by hills and mountains, and its lesser-known hiking trails offer a glimpse into the Central Valley’s raw greenery and natural beauty.
While being very close to the city, these trails continue to attract hikers, explorers, mountain lovers and athletes.
You’ll be amazed by how San José can be experienced from this perspective.
1. Escazú, Cerro Pico Blanco
Escazú’s Cerro Pico Blanco is one of the Central Valley’s most sought-after mountain spots. Embark on a challenging trek through its dense forests and rugged terrain. While not for the faint-hearted, reaching the summit unveils breathtaking vistas—a true reward for those willing to venture off the beaten path. Also, don’t miss the surrounding areas that’ll take you to a hidden waterfall.
Estimated Hike Length: Approximately 4-5 hours round trip (10 km)
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
Highlights: This hike offers breathtaking panoramic views of San José and the surrounding mountains. The trail is steep in some areas, making it a great workout for experienced hikers.
2. Escazú, Cerro Bebedero
Discover the tranquility of Cerro Bebedero in Escazú—a serene escape that remains relatively untouched by crowds. The moderate trails wind through flourishing foliage and offer captivating views, providing an intimate communion with nature away from the tourist bustle.
Estimated Hike Length: Around 3-4 hours round trip (8 km)
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: Known for its lush vegetation and diverse wildlife, this hike provides a mix of shaded forest trails and open areas with beautiful vistas of the Central Valley.
Recommendations:
- The trail can be muddy, especially during the rainy season, so waterproof shoes are a good idea.
- This spot is less crowded, making it perfect for a quieter hiking experience.
- A walking stick can be helpful for the steeper sections of the trail.
3. Santa Ana, Las Eólicas
The trails surrounding Universidad para La Paz beckon adventurers seeking to work out or explore different natural surroundings. Far from tourist circuits, this university campus is situated in the beautiful hills of Ciudad Colón, inviting exploration through serene landscapes, and offering encounters with diverse flora and fauna.
If you explore a little more, you’ll be pleased with many of the side trails heading to rivers and amazing vistas to the Pacific.
- Estimated Hike Length: 1-2 hours round trip (3-4 km)
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- Highlights: With well-maintained trails and beautiful lakes, this location is ideal for those looking for a relaxing hike close to nature. The trails wind through primary and secondary forest areas, offering the chance to see various birds and small animals.
- Recommendations:
- Ideal for families and beginner hikers.
- Bring binoculars for bird watching and a picnic to enjoy by the lakes.
- The trails are well-marked, making navigation straightforward.
Universidad Para La Paz (Peace Park) on Google Maps
4. Universidad para La Paz – Peace Park
The trails surrounding Universidad para La Paz beckon adventurers seeking to work out or explore different natural surroundings. Far from tourist circuits, this university campus is situated in the beautiful hills of Ciudad Colón, inviting exploration through serene landscapes, and offering encounters with diverse flora and fauna.
If you explore a little more, you’ll be pleased with many of the side trails heading to rivers and amazing vistas to the Pacific.
- Estimated Hike Length: 1-2 hours round trip (3-4 km)
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- Highlights: With well-maintained trails and beautiful lakes, this location is ideal for those looking for a relaxing hike close to nature. The trails wind through primary and secondary forest areas, offering the chance to see various birds and small animals.
- Recommendations:
- Ideal for families and beginner hikers.
- Bring binoculars for bird watching and a picnic to enjoy by the lakes.
- The trails are well-marked, making navigation straightforward.
Universidad Para La Paz (Peace Park) on Google Maps
5. Piedras Negras: Unveil Untamed Wilderness
Piedras Negras, tucked away in Puriscal, west of San José, invites the adventurous few.
Follow the marked trails along the river to discover cascading waterfalls, with unspoiled vistas awaiting those eager to embrace the wild.
This is your chance to explore more of Costa Rica if you love hiking. Whether you seek solitude in unexplored landscapes or a rugged journey through nature’s untamed heart, San José’s hidden hiking gems promise an authentic escape from the tourist trail.
Estimated Hike Length: 4-5 hours round trip (10-12 km)
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: This scenic trail leads through lush forests to large volcanic rock formations known as “Piedras Negras.” The trail offers a mix of sun and shade, with a few small river crossings.
Recommendations:
- Bring hiking poles for stability, especially at the river crossings.
- Consider hiring a local guide to enhance your experience with historical and environmental insights about the area.
- Watch out for slippery rocks, especially during or after rain.
Stay tuned for more following recommendations of places to hike around Costa Rica here at CR Nomads!
