Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
higuaca)
and more than 60 other species of bird, nine species of rare freshwater
shrimp, the coquí frog, anole tree lizards and the 7ft-long Puerto Rican boa.
Four forest zones define El Yunque. The tabonuco forest grows below 2000ft and
receives less than 100in of rain. This area is characterized by tall, straight trees such
as the tabonuco and ausubo, and palms, epiphytes (including many orchids), flowers
and aromatic shrubs of many kinds.
The palo colorado forest grows above 2000ft in the valleys and on gentle slopes.
Here annual rainfall averages as much as 180in. This area is lush with ancient color-
ado trees (some more than 1000 years old). Vines and epiphytes hang from the trees.
Above 2500ft, look for sierra palms along the streams and on the steep valley
slopes. The so-called mountain palm tree dominates here in the third zone, the palma
sierra forest, with mostly ferns and mosses growing beneath.
The highest forest zone, the cloud forest, grows above the Palma Sierra Forest and
sees up to 200in of rain per year. Trees here are generally twisted from strong trade
winds and are less than 12ft tall (hence the term 'dwarf forest' commonly applied to
this ecosystem). Mosses and lichens hang from trees and cover the forest floor. Red-
flowering bromeliads stand out like beacons in the fog.
Activities
With more than 23 miles of well-maintained trails, and plenty of rugged terrain, El Yunque
has a plethora of easy day hikes. Come prepared (think rain poncho and good shoes) and
remember there are no water, trash or rest room facilities.
It's a good idea to check in at the visitors center for the latest weather update before
heading out for a trek. El Yunque's weather caters to the unique needs of its ecosystem.
Sudden surges of light rain can occur anytime during the year in this dense rainforest, but
that goes with the territory - throw on some protective gear and get on with your day. Dur-
ing hurricane season El Yunque gets very wet indeed. Some trails might be closed due to
mudslides, and streams swell enormously. Winter nights in the Luquillo mountains can be
damp and a little chilly.
Big Tree Trail
HIKING
Half an hour each way, this trail through tabonuco forest to La Mina Falls contains bilingual
interpretive signs that highlight sights such as a 300-year-old ausubo tree. This short
0.86-mile trail is moderately difficult; its name comes from (surprise!) the size of the ve-
