Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Compared to other Puerto Rican forests and parks, the trails in Guajataca are relatively
well marked, though it's wise to procure a map beforehand to see how the various paths
link up. True to form, the
ranger station ( 872-1045; Rte 446; 8am-5pm)
near the
trailheads, 5 miles into the forest, is not always open, and when rangers do emerge they
don't always have much in the way of printed information. The moral: come prepared. The
best bet is to call the Aguadilla office of the DRNA (
Click here
) before you arrive at the
forest, find things closed and feel a little lost. Be warned that 'official' maps of the area are
usually hand-drawn, photocopied and not to scale.
There are no eating facilities in Guajataca forest.
Sights & Activities
Most of the main hikes depart from, or near, the ranger station on Rte 446. The most popu-
lar is the 1.5-mile
InterpretativeTrail
that passes the
observationtower
and several oth-
er points of interest (be sure to hike to the observation tower to get the best views of the
surrounding countryside). It's a moderate walk that takes about two hours.
Trail Number
One
breaks off from the Interpretative Trail and heads toward
Cueva del Viento
. There,
wooden stairs will take you down into the depths of the dark cave (bring a flashlight). Let
rangers know if you are going into the caves.
Sleeping
Nino's Camping & Guesthouse
CABINS, CAMPGROUND $
( 896-9016;
www.ninoscamping.com
;Rte119Km22.1;campsite/cabins$25/50;
)
Near Lago Guajataca, this is a nice lakeside option, operated by a friendly family. The
little cabins for four to 12 people have everything except sheets and utensils. Discounts are
given for longer stays and there's a swimming pool and an activities room on-site. It also
rents kayaks and operates fishing ventures for groups.
La Vereda
CAMPGROUND $
(campsites per person $7)
There are 10 campsites here, on Rte 446, about 5 miles south
of Hwy 2. Call the DRNA in San Juan for a permit and to make reservations, or try the
Aguadilla office. Like other government-operated campgrounds, getting a permit (or any
information at all) can be frustrating.
