Iztaccíhuatl-Popocatépetl is a region in Mexico defined by its dramatic volcanic landscapes and high-altitude terrain, making it a significant destination for outdoor activities. Dominated by the iconic Iztaccíhuatl and Popocatépetl volcanoes, the area features diverse ecosystems ranging from dense forests to subalpine meadows and rocky alpine zones. This varied topography provides a suitable environment for several sports like hiking, mountain biking, touring cycling, and jogging. The region's unique geological features and elevation changes offer distinct challenges and experiences for outdoor…
34
Routes
4.8
(165)
Average rating
789
People visited

4.7
(22)
162
hikers
13.1km
04:47
410m
410m
Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.

4.9
(28)
75
hikers
8.07km
02:46
430m
430m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

4.4
(22)
86
hikers
19.4km
07:01
1,180m
1,180m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

5.0
(1)
9
hikers
15.6km
04:46
400m
400m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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4.0
(3)
30
riders
50.2km
03:53
1,330m
1,330m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

5.0
(2)
27
riders
35.9km
02:57
1,150m
1,150m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

3
riders
10.4km
01:07
230m
230m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

2
riders
17.0km
01:04
80m
80m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(2)
16
riders
15.6km
01:30
340m
340m
Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.

5.0
(1)
12
riders
23.8km
02:53
930m
930m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

4.8
(4)
8
riders
36.7km
03:57
1,180m
1,180m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

5.0
(2)
4
riders
40.3km
04:32
1,430m
1,430m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
9
runners
10.4km
01:18
240m
240m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

5.0
(1)
8
runners
24.7km
03:55
1,430m
1,430m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

3
runners
15.6km
02:07
400m
400m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.

2
riders
40.6km
03:23
870m
870m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

2
riders
28.9km
02:32
730m
730m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

4
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
The Iztaccíhuatl-Popocatépetl region offers a variety of outdoor activities including Hiking, Mountain biking, Touring cycling, and Jogging. There are 15 routes available, with an average rating of 4.79 stars from nearly 300 ratings. These activities cater to various skill levels amidst volcanic landscapes.
Popular hiking routes often involve the ascent to Iztaccíhuatl's summit, with many starting from the La Joya Trailhead. The 'Ruta de los Portillos' is a well-known path for mountaineers. More moderate hikes can be found around Paso de Cortés, offering views of both volcanoes.
Yes, the Iztaccíhuatl-Popocatépetl region features mountain biking trails with varying difficulty levels, from moderate to hard. Routes often include significant elevation changes through volcanic terrain and forested areas. More information can be found in the MTB Trails in Iztaccíhuatl-Popocatépetl guide.
The region is dominated by the Iztaccíhuatl (17,160 ft / 5,230 m) and Popocatépetl (17,802 ft / 5,426 m) volcanoes. Other notable features include Paso de Cortés, Nexcolango Lagoon, and the ancient Aztec archaeological site on Cerro Tláloc Summit. Diverse ecosystems range from forests to alpine grasslands.
The park offers trails suitable for various experience levels, including less strenuous hikes. While many routes involve high altitude, some sections around Paso de Cortés are considered beginner-friendly. It is advisable to check specific route details for suitability.
The dry season, which typically runs from November to April, offers ideal conditions for outdoor activities in Iztaccíhuatl-Popocatépetl. During this period, the weather is generally clear, which is conducive to hiking, cycling, and other pursuits.
Komoot offers several guides for the region, including Hiking in Iztaccíhuatl-Popocatépetl, Waterfall hikes in Iztaccíhuatl-Popocatépetl, and MTB Trails in Iztaccíhuatl-Popocatépetl. There are also guides for Cycling in Iztaccíhuatl-Popocatépetl and Running Trails in Iztaccíhuatl-Popocatépetl.
The highest point in the region is Popocatépetl, an active volcano, with an elevation of 17,802 feet (5,426 meters). Iztaccíhuatl is the third-highest peak in Mexico, reaching 17,160 feet (5,230 meters). Climbing Popocatépetl is restricted due to its activity.
The Iztaccíhuatl-Popocatépetl National Park is managed by the National Commission of Protected Natural Areas (CONANP). The official website is conanp.gob.mx. Contact can also be made via phone at +52 (597) 978 3829 or +52 (597) 978 3830, or email at iztapopo@conanp.gob.mx.
Yes, the region offers touring cycling routes that navigate its dramatic landscapes, including volcanic ash-covered trails and challenging climbs. Routes like the Parque Amecameca loop and those around Paso de Cortés provide panoramic vistas. The Cycling in Iztaccíhuatl-Popocatépetl guide provides more details.
Paso de Cortés is a historic mountain pass located between the Iztaccíhuatl and Popocatépetl volcanoes. It serves as a popular starting point for various hikes and offers impressive views of both peaks. The pass is also a significant historical site, named after Hernán Cortés.

