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Desierto de los Leones National Park wilderness guide
National Park · CDMX

Desierto de los Leones National Park

Desierto de los Leones National Park, located in Mexico City, offers a lush escape from the urban landscape with its rich forests, historical sites, and abundant wildlife.

National Park4,6003+ Trails

Designation

National Park

Total Wilderness Area

4,600

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Desierto de los Leones National Park

Desierto de los Leones National Park, located in Mexico City, offers a lush escape from the urban landscape with its rich forests, historical sites, and abundant wildlife.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Desierto de los Leones National Park, established in 1917, is one of Mexico's oldest parks. It spans over 4,600 acres within the Santa Fe and Cuajimalpa boroughs of Mexico City, offering a lush oasis rich with pine and oak forests. The park's elevation, ranging from 8,100 to 12,000 feet, creates a unique environment teeming with various species, including deer, foxes, and an array of birdlife. Historically, the park is known for the Carmelite monastery ruins dating back to the 17th century, which offer a glimpse into the region's colonial past. Recreational opportunities abound, from hiking the miles of trails to exploring the historical buildings. Its proximity to the city makes it a popular destination for residents and visitors alike, providing access to nature and history in a single visit.

Field Guide · National Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Desierto de los Leones National Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Latin American Integration Unit in Mexico City★ 0.1⌖ 8 miUrban Exploration
Latin American Integration Unit

Latin American Integration Unit in Mexico City

Explore the architectural significance of the Latin American Integration Unit in Mexico City's Coyoacán neighborhood. The area offers a glimpse into local urban life with nearby parks and cultural spots. Accessible year-round with peak visits during summer.

Urban ExplorationView Details→
Aztlán Parque Urbano: A Vibrant City Escape★ 4.0⌖ 10 miCity Exploration
Aztlán Parque Urbano

Aztlán Parque Urbano: A Vibrant City Escape

Visit Aztlán Parque Urbano in Mexico City, a vibrant urban park offering fun rides like the giant Ferris wheel and cultural attractions. Perfect for families looking for a mix of leisure and city exploration.

City ExplorationView Details→
Volcán Xaltepec: Mexico City's Natural Wonder★ 8.3⌖ 17 miHiking
Volcán Xaltepec

Volcán Xaltepec: Mexico City's Natural Wonder

Explore Volcán Xaltepec near Mexico City with panoramic hiking trails. Perfect for photography enthusiasts, the volcanic rock formations offer stunning city views. Early morning hikes in cooler months are recommended. Ideal outdoor adventure close to urban settings.

Discover the Enchanting Valley of Mexico★ 8.5⌖ 31 miHiking
Valley of Mexico

Discover the Enchanting Valley of Mexico

Explore the Valley of Mexico with hiking options at Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl and bird watching at Lake Texcoco. Visit historical Teotihuacán and enjoy diverse activities from November to April, just an hour from Mexico City.

Majestic Peaks of Nevado de Toluca★ 8.5⌖ 33 miHiking
Nevado de Toluca

Majestic Peaks of Nevado de Toluca

Experience the breathtaking Nevado de Toluca, a 4,680-meter peak near Toluca. Enjoy hiking to the summit with panoramic views and explore crater lakes. Perfect for adventure seekers.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ The ruins of the 17th-century Carmelite monastery✦ Rich pine and oak forests with wildlife viewing opportunities✦ Panoramic vistas of Mexico City from high elevation trails✦ Tranquil picnic spots along natural springs
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Desierto de los Leones National Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Desierto de los Leones National Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Desierto de los Leones National Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Desierto de los Leones National Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Desierto de los Leones National Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Desierto de los Leones National Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free access, no permits required

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Desierto de los Leones National Park

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Desierto de los Leones Campground

A simple camping area offering a basic outdoor experience within the park.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Desierto de los Leones National Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Cuajimalpa
⌖ 3.30 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Cuajimalpa, Mexico City

A gateway to natural beauty within Mexico City offering mountain trails, forests, and elevated terrain for outdoor enthusiasts.

October to MayExplore Town
Magdalena Contreras
⌖ 3.60 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Magdalena Contreras, Mexico City

A semi-rural borough with rugged landscapes and protected natural parks offering authentic hiking and mountain biking experiences within Mexico City's outskirts.

October to AprilExplore Town
Tlalpan
⌖ 8.65 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Tlalpan, Ciudad de México

A gateway to urban outdoor adventures offering diverse hiking trails, mountain biking, and natural escapes within a historic borough of Mexico City.

October to MayExplore Town
Tlalpan
⌖ 8.65 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Tlalpan, Mexico City

A blend of rural charm and urban access offering diverse outdoor experiences from forest hikes and mountain biking to cultural exploration in Mexico City's largest borough.

October to AprilExplore Town
Coyoacán
⌖ 9.20 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Coyoacán, Mexico City

A vibrant cultural neighborhood with charming plazas and green spaces offering gentle urban exploration and biking within a historic setting.

October to AprilExplore Town
Miguel Hidalgo
⌖ 9.82 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Miguel Hidalgo, Mexico City

Urban district with a blend of cultural landmarks and verdant parks offering accessible outdoor activities within Mexico City.

October to AprilExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Desierto de los Leones National Park

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.