The best dog-friendly hikes and walks in Desierto De Los Leones

There are 6 dog-friendly hiking trails in Desierto de los Leones, all rated as moderate difficulty. These routes offer a great way to explore the park's lush forests and varied terrain with your canine companion.

The trails in Desierto de los Leones wind through dense pine, fir, and oak forests, offering a tranquil and scenic environment. You can expect varied terrain including meadows, streams, and ravines. The park is nestled within the Sierra de las Cruces mountain range, so some routes will involve significant elevation changes.

Yes, many of the dog-friendly routes in Desierto de los Leones are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, consider the Pet-Friendly Adventurer – Ajusco Full Loop, which covers nearly 6 km with over 500 meters of elevation gain and loss.

If you're looking for a longer adventure with your dog, the Cruz del Marqués – Pico del Águila loop from Abrevadero is a great option. This route spans over 9 km and features nearly 800 meters of elevation gain, offering a more challenging experience through the park's beautiful landscapes.

While exploring Desierto de los Leones, you can encounter several interesting points. The park is home to the well-preserved 17th-century Carmelite monastery, the Ex Convent of Desierto de los Leones. You might also discover occasional hermitages and enjoy scenic vistas from viewpoints like Peñas de Shiro Viewpoint by the Hermitage or Piedra Viewpoint.

Desierto de los Leones offers a cool, refreshing climate year-round due to its high elevation. The lush forests provide ample shade, making it pleasant even on warmer days. However, for the most comfortable hiking experience, consider visiting during the dry season (roughly November to May) to avoid potential muddy trails from summer rains.

The park is situated at elevations reaching over 3,000 meters (9,800 feet) above sea level. This contributes to its cool climate but can also be challenging for those not accustomed to high altitudes. Be mindful of your dog's stamina and hydration, and take breaks as needed, especially if you're both new to high-elevation hiking.

Desierto de los Leones is known for being dog-friendly, but it's always important to follow general park rules. Keep your dog on a leash, especially given the diverse wildlife such as white-tailed deer and raccoons. Always pick up after your pet to maintain the park's natural beauty and cleanliness for all visitors.

The komoot community highly rates the trails in Desierto de los Leones, with an average score of 4.7 out of 5 stars from over 360 reviews. Hikers often praise the park's dense, tranquil forests, the refreshing cool climate, and the opportunity to escape the city bustle. The well-maintained trails and scenic viewpoints are also frequently highlighted.

Near the historical ex-convent, you can find a restaurant serving Mexican dishes, which can be a convenient stop after your hike. The park also features picnic areas. For specific facilities along trails, you might encounter points like Cruz Blanca or the Acopilco natural park area.

Absolutely. The Pico del Águila – Cruz del Marqués loop from Albergue Alpino Ajusco is a moderate 6.3 km route that includes over 600 meters of elevation gain. This trail offers a good workout for both you and your dog while immersing you in the park's beautiful mountain scenery.