Best trails in Juan Castro National Park National Park
Juan Castro National Park is one of the most popular places to visit in Costa Rica due to the number of activities available to visitors. It is a great place for bird watching, especially due to the virgin rainforest. There is a trail system that allows guests to enjoy the wildlife up close. The park is reportedly home to some 57 mammals and hundreds of birds. There are also a few different species of monkeys found in Costa Rica. The park also has three volcanoes to visit.
It's obvious why Juan Castro National Park is a great place to visit - plan your next adventure here!
Top trails
1
(24)
•Hard
•2.5 mi
The Quebrada Gata trail in Costa Rica offers an exciting canyoneering experience. It is ideal for adventurers, with its clear and clean waters flowing through a rocky bed, creating natural pools and small rapids. However, the proximity of a hydroelectric dam requires extreme caution. Sudden gate openings can result in fatal accidents. It is essential to have a specialized guide to enjoy this natural wonder safely.
The region around Quebrada Gata is rich in biodiversity, with numerous species...
2
3
(15)
•Moderate
•4.1 mi
•Est. 2h 14m
The Pozo Verde tour is a hike through trails surrounded by exuberant tropical vegetation.
Along the way, you can observe various species of flora and fauna, including birds and butterflies. The destination is a lagoon of crystal clear emerald waters, surrounded by a calm and relaxed environment, ideal for a refreshing swim.
It is an immersive experience in nature, perfect for ecotourism lovers.
4
(22)
•Hard
•3.9 mi
•Est. 3h 27m
The Platanar Volcano tour offers an immersive experience of tropical biodiversity.
It starts among coffee plantations and pastures, ascending to a thick cloud forest with panoramic views of the Central Valley and Arenal.
During the hike, exotic birds and diverse local fauna can be observed. The challenging route, with steep and often muddy trails, is ideal for adventurers who enjoy ecotourism and trekking.
5
(8)
•Hard
•3.4 mi
•Est. 2h 22m
The Bosque de Paz Trail is a hike through a lush cloud forest.
This well-maintained and marked trail allows visitors to immerse themselves in the serenity of nature, observing a rich diversity of flora and fauna, including orchids, exotic birds, and butterflies. The trail has some gentle slopes and rustic bridges crossing streams.
Along the trail, viewpoints offer panoramic views of the mountainous landscape, providing a tranquil and revitalizing experience in the middle of the...
6
(3)
•Hard
•3.9 mi
•Est. 2h 32m
The Porvenir Volcano Trail in the Bijagua region is a challenging and scenic route that takes hikers through lush tropical forests.
This trail offers an immersive experience in nature, with the opportunity to observe rich biodiversity, including exotic birds, monkeys, and butterflies. The trail is varied, with steep sections and rocky areas requiring good physical fitness.
As you ascend, the panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and the Porvenir Volcano are breathtaking. It is an...
7
(1)
•Hard
•14.8 mi
•Est. 10h 32m
The La Legua - Cerro Volcán Viejo route is a challenging hike through mountainous and forested terrain.
Beginning in the small town of La Legua, the trail gradually ascends through dirt roads and steep sections, surrounded by dense vegetation.
As it climbs, the landscape transforms, offering panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. The trail culminates at the summit of Cerro Volcan Viejo. The views of this ancient extinct volcano are spectacular, stretching from the Pacific...
8
(2)
•Hard
•4.5 mi
•Est. 4h 27m
This trail is on private property and requires permission from the landowner for access.
The route to Platanar Volcano from Calle La Pradera in Costa Rica is a challenging and scenic hike. Starting at the base, the trail gradually ascends through tropical forests, offering panoramic views of the Central Valley and the Cordillera Central.
As altitude is gained, the vegetation becomes denser and the temperature becomes cooler. The terrain includes steep and rocky sections, which can be...
Visitor info
Hours & contact
Open 7 days a week
Passes & fees
Fee required
General park hours
Phone
2200 5644
Fee required
Parks
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Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to hike in Juan Castro National Park National Park?
According to users from AllTrails.com, the best place to hike in Juan Castro National Park National Park is Quebrada Gata [CLOSED], which has a 4.6 star rating from 25 reviews. This trail is 2.5 mi long with an elevation gain of 1,351 ft.
What is the longest trail in Juan Castro National Park National Park?
According to AllTrails.com, the longest trail in Juan Castro National Park National Park is The League - Old Volcano Hill [CLOSED]. This trail is estimated to be 14.8 mi long.
How many trails are in Juan Castro National Park National Park?
There are 8 trails in Juan Castro National Park National Park. These trails have an average 4.3-star rating from 102 AllTrails community reviews.
Which trail has the most elevation gain in Juan Castro National Park National Park?
If you're looking for elevation gain, Juan Castro National Park National Park has you covered. The League - Old Volcano Hill [CLOSED] boasts the most elevation gain with 5,944 ft of total ascent. The park's runner-up is Platanar Volcano from Calle La Pradera [CLOSED / PRIVATE PROPERTY], which will get you 3,015 ft of elevation gain.
Are there any trails with volcano viewpoints in Juan Castro National Park National Park?
Yes, there are 4 trails with volcano viewpoints in Juan Castro National Park National Park, including Platanar Volcano [CLOSED], Porvenir Volcano Trail [CLOSED], The League - Old Volcano Hill [CLOSED], and Platanar Volcano from Calle La Pradera [CLOSED / PRIVATE PROPERTY].
Are there any trails with rivers in Juan Castro National Park National Park?
Yes, there is one trail with a river in Juan Castro National Park National Park: Quebrada Gata [CLOSED].
Are there any trails with lakes in Juan Castro National Park National Park?
Yes, there are 2 trails with lakes in Juan Castro National Park National Park, including Sacred Mountain Circuit - Pozo Verde [CLOSED] and Pozo Verde [CLOSED].