The best running trails in Nealtican

Nealtican offers several running routes, with a total of 5 tours listed in this guide. These routes provide diverse experiences across the region's unique volcanic landscape.

Jogging in Nealtican is unique due to its setting within the Malpaís de Nealtican, an area shaped by the Popocatépetl volcano's eruptions. You'll experience sandy, stony terrain, dense mixed forests of pines, oaks, and madroños, and elevations ranging from 2,200 to 2,600 meters above sea level. This provides both scenic beauty and a challenging workout.

Yes, Nealtican features several challenging routes. For instance, the Direct Drop-Off loop from San Pedro Cholula is a difficult 10.0-mile (16.1 km) trail with significant elevation gain, taking about 1 hour 55 minutes to complete. Another demanding option is the Tecajete loop from Dolores, a difficult 16.6 km route.

While many routes offer a challenge, there are moderate options available. The Running loop from Reserva Estatal Cerro Zapotecas is a moderate 3.8-mile (6.1 km) trail that leads through varied terrain and can be completed in about 47 minutes, offering a less strenuous experience.

The running paths in Nealtican primarily traverse the Malpaís de Nealtican, characterized by sandy, stony, and shallow soil. You'll run through well-preserved mixed forests of pines, oaks, and madroños, as well as open volcanic slopes. The surfaces are generally unpaved, offering a natural and varied running experience.

Yes, many of the running routes in Nealtican are circular. Examples include the Direct Drop-Off loop from San Francisco Cuapan, a difficult 7.3-mile (11.8 km) path, and the Running loop from Reserva Estatal Cerro Zapotecas, a moderate 3.8-mile (6.1 km) trail.

The running routes in Nealtican are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.8 stars from over 8 reviews. Runners often praise the unique volcanic landscapes, the diverse forest scenery, and the opportunity for challenging high-altitude workouts.

While specific parking details for each trailhead are not always provided, Nealtican is a rural area, and access points to trails often have informal parking options. It's advisable to check local information or community forums for the most up-to-date parking advice before your visit.

Public transport options to the immediate trailheads in Nealtican might be limited. It's generally recommended to use personal transportation to access the more remote parts of the Malpaís de Nealtican where many of the trails are located. However, local buses or colectivos may serve the main town of Nealtican, from which you might need to arrange further transport.

The guide indicates that 1 of the 5 routes are of moderate difficulty, while the others are difficult. The terrain, with its elevation and unpaved surfaces, can be challenging. For families or beginners, the moderate routes, such as the Running loop from Reserva Estatal Cerro Zapotecas, would be more suitable, but always assess the specific route details and your group's fitness level.

The well-preserved forests of the Malpaís de Nealtican are home to various animal species. While running, you might observe bees, spiny lizards, hummingbirds, and wild rabbits, adding a natural element to your outdoor experience.

Running in Nealtican offers significant elevation, with routes situated between 2,200 and 2,600 meters above sea level. This high altitude provides an excellent cardiovascular workout and opportunities for altitude training.