Desierto de los Leones National Park

Desierto de los Leones National Park offers families a refreshing mountain escape just outside Mexico City's urban center, featuring easy hiking trails through pine forests, historic monastery ruins to explore, and expansive picnic areas perfect for a full day outdoors. At over 7,000 feet elevation, the cool mountain air and misty atmosphere create an enchanting natural playground where kids can run, climb, and discover nature while parents enjoy breathtaking valley views.

• ✓Exploring the atmospheric 17th-century Carmelite monastery ruins with stone corridors and historic architecture
• ✓Easy to moderate hiking trails through fragrant pine and oak forests perfect for family nature walks
• ✓Large grassy picnic areas where kids can run and play while parents relax
• ✓Cool mountain climate and misty forest atmosphere that feels worlds away from the city
• ✓Wildlife spotting opportunities including squirrels, diverse bird species, and occasional deer

1. 1.Arrive early (by 9:00 AM) on weekends to secure good parking and picnic spots, as the park gets very crowded with local families by late morning.
2. 2.Bring layers and rain gear even on sunny days. The high elevation means temperatures can drop quickly, and afternoon fog or drizzle is common year-round.
3. 3.Pack a full picnic with snacks and water, as there are limited food vendors inside the park and prices are higher than in the city.
4. 4.The historic ex-convent (former monastery) near the entrance is a must-see. Kids love exploring the atmospheric stone corridors and imagining life centuries ago.
5. 5.Stick to marked trails and keep children close, as some paths can be steep and foggy conditions sometimes reduce visibility significantly.

Visit Tuesday through Friday mornings for the quietest experience, avoiding Monday closures and crowded weekends when local families pack the park. The dry season (November through April) offers the clearest skies and best mountain views, though mornings any time of year provide the best weather before afternoon clouds roll in.

Admission is free, though parking costs approximately 50 pesos. There are basic restrooms near the entrance and main picnic areas, but no restaurants inside the park, so bringing your own food and drinks is essential for a comfortable family visit.

The park is open year-round except Mondays. The dry season (November to April) offers the best hiking conditions with less mud and clearer views, while the rainy season (May to October) brings lush greenery but afternoon showers and muddier trails. The park occasionally closes temporarily during severe weather, so check conditions before visiting during rainy season.

On your way back to Mexico City, stop at the many taco stands and family restaurants along the access road in San Angel or Alvaro Obregon neighborhoods. For a sit-down meal, La Cabaña Argentina in nearby Santa Fe offers kid-friendly grilled meats and a casual atmosphere about 20 minutes from the park.