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 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

The ruins of the 17th-century Carmelite monasteryRich pine and oak forests with wildlife viewing opportunitiesPanoramic vistas of Mexico City from high elevation trailsTranquil 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, Mexico City
3.30 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Cuajimalpa, Mexico City

Cuajimalpa offers easy access from Mexico City to forested mountain parks like Desierto de los Leones. It’s perfect for hiking, biking, bird watching, and enjoying nature close to urban life.

October to May
Explore Town
Magdalena Contreras, Mexico City
3.60 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Magdalena Contreras, Mexico City

Magdalena Contreras blends quiet mountain landscapes with outdoor adventures just outside Mexico City. Hikers and bikers enjoy its volcanic trails and green parks, making it perfect for nature lovers seeking a close-to-the-city escape.

October to April
Explore Town
Tlalpan, Ciudad de México
8.65 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Tlalpan, Ciudad de México

Tlalpan in Ciudad de México offers outdoor lovers a mix of forested trails, mountain biking, and rock climbing within easy reach of the city. Explore Ajusco volcano, camp under stars, and discover a historic town rich in culture and nature.

October to May
Explore Town
Tlalpan, Mexico City
8.65 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Tlalpan, Mexico City

Tlalpan offers outdoor enthusiasts a refreshing mix of forest trails, mountain biking, and cultural charm just south of Mexico City's urban core. Explore volcano views, ecological parks, and historic streets all in one accessible location.

October to April
Explore Town
Coyoacán, Mexico City
9.20 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Coyoacán, Mexico City

Coyoacán offers a relaxed urban adventure with charming streets, bike paths, and green spaces perfect for exploring cultural landmarks and enjoying paddleboats in a historic Mexico City neighborhood.

October to April
Explore Town
Miguel Hidalgo, Mexico City
9.82 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Miguel Hidalgo, Mexico City

Miguel Hidalgo offers urban adventurers green spaces like Chapultepec Park for hiking, biking, paddling, and bird watching. This lively Mexico City borough blends natural beauty with cultural landmarks for a refreshing city escape.

October to April
Explore 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.

Up Close with the City of the Gods: Five Hours at Teotihuacán
ADVEXPEDITION
Ciudad de México, Ciudad de México
City TourADV Bookable

Up Close with the City of the Gods: Five Hours at Teotihuacán

A 5-hour guided tour from Mexico City that brings you to the Pyramids of the Sun and Moon, lets you climb the Quetzalcóatl Pyramid, and includes a cave‑restaurant lunch stop.

City TourPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip