Easy to reach from downtown Monterrey, Chipinque Ecological Park has something to keep most visitors entertained. Highlights are the children’s play and picnic area, attractive butterfly and insect houses—which host regular tours and talks—and several outlooks with sweeping views over the city below. Most visitors also like to take advantage of the 37 miles (60 kilometers) worth of biking paths or enjoy a guided sunset hike, while looking out for flora and fauna including black bears, coatis, and even pumas.
Wear light layers, closed shoes, and bug spray if you plan on hiking in Chipinque Ecological Park.
Cyclists must wear helmets and headlamps (when cycling after dark).
There’s a small fee to enter the park and you should take cash to buy snacks and drinks from on-site vendors and the snack bar.
Visitors must obtain permission to tackle the advanced-level climbs to Chipinque’s peaks.
Due to uneven trails, stairs, and unpaved walkways, Chipinque Ecological Park is not fully wheelchair or stroller accessible.
Chipinque Ecological Park is situated 7 miles (11 kilometers) southwest of downtown Monterrey, in the San Pedro Garza García district. Make it easy for yourself and arrive by rideshare or catch a bus from the city center—routes 206 and 405 pass close to the Chipinque entrance. There’s also plenty of on-site parking.
Chipinque Ecological Park is open daily from the early morning until the early evening and enjoys year-round temperatures of roughly 70°F (21°C). As such, there’s no bad time to visit, although weekends and holidays tend to be busier than midweek. Visit on Sunday mornings to enjoy the free yoga class.
Chipinque Ecological Park is the ideal destination for visitors of all ages and abilities; however, more advanced hikers can tackle the Cerro de la Silla peak, while rock climbers should take a trip to nearby Potrero Chico for some of the most difficult climbs in the country. Alternatively, stick to the city center and enjoy the urban expanse and numerous attractions of verdant Fundidora Park.