San Miguel del Valle is another gateway to the high country of the Sierra Norte mountains. This village is tucked away in a fold of the mountains on the north side of the Tlacolula valley, and can be reached by going north from Tlocolula, through Diaz Ordaz and continuing upvalley. For this outing we will hike the “El Pedimento” trail in the forest at an elevation of 10,000 feet. Be prepared for cooler temperatures and the possibility of fog and drizzle. There is an admission fee of 50 pesos per person to hike on communal land, and local guides must be hired to accompany the group. We will enjoy a sack lunch while admiring the panoramic view from the mirador. Motion sickness alert! The ride to and from the mountains above San Miguel del Valle may induce dizzyness.
Time frame: 9 am to 3:30 pm / Distance: 2.9 Km (1.8 Mi) round trip / Elevation change: 183 M (600 Ft) gain & loss / Type: loop / Trail: forest paths / Exposure: mix of sun and shade / Rating: moderate to difficult – some steep sections at high elevation / Highest point: 3139 meters (10,300 feet) / Suggestion: use a hiking pole
PANDEMIC PROTOCOL: For everyone's safety, hike participants must show proof of vaccination when boarding the van the morning of the hike, and must wear face masks when traveling in the van. Masks may be removed when out on the trail. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation!