The Río Santa María is one of the most powerful and beautiful rivers in central Mexico. From its birth in the mountains of San Luis Potosí to the point where its name disappears at the Cascada de Tamul in the Huasteca Potosina, the river carves deep canyons, feeds remote communities, and creates some of the most challenging and rewarding routes in the Sierra Gorda.

Along its entire course, it would be hard to find someone who knows this river better. Our hikes and canyon routes follow the Río Santa María through its wildest sections, offering experiences that range from challenging day hikes to multi-day expeditions deep in remote canyon country.

El Avatar is one of our best-kept secrets, hidden away in a quiet corner of Pinal de Amoles. This adventurous hike takes you to a spectacular mirador on the summit of Cerro del Infiernillo, where sweeping views reveal the wild beauty of the Sierra Gorda. Along the way, you’ll explore a dramatic vertical cave known as El Túnel or El Socavón, and follow little-used trails through the upper reaches of Cañón del Infiernillo. It’s a unique experience that combines panoramic viewpoints, intriguing geology, and a strong sense of discovery for hikers looking to go beyond the usual routes.

Rising above the town of Tilaco, Querétaro, the Cerro del Sapo offers one of the most dramatic viewpoints in the Sierra Gorda. Though the hike to the summit is not long, it is very steep and physically demanding, rewarding those who make the climb with sweeping views over the surrounding mountains, valleys, and the Moctezuma River basin to the south.

This is a hike for those who enjoy a challenge and appreciate big rewards in a short amount of time.

The Río Escanela Hike to the Puente de Dios is one of the most scenic and immersive ways to experience the Sierra Gorda. This route follows the Río Escanela itself—the same river that flows directly through Puente de Dios—allowing hikers to experience the landscape gradually, from quiet riverbanks to one of the region’s most impressive natural formations.

Rather than arriving at Puente de Dios directly, this hike offers the satisfaction of reaching it on foot, following the natural course of the river through forested terrain, pools, and canyon scenery.

This tour visits the Mirador El Campestre, one of the most scenic viewpoints in Pinal de Amoles. From the overlook, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of forested mountains, deep valleys, and the dramatic landscapes that define the Sierra Gorda. It’s an ideal stop for photography, quiet reflection, and taking in the cool mountain air, all with easy access from town.

The Sierra Gorda of Querétaro is home to an impressive karst landscape filled with caves, sinkholes, and underground passages shaped by water over millions of years. Cave exploration in this region offers a completely different perspective on the mountains—one defined by darkness, silence, and extraordinary rock formations. From easily accessible caves near Jalpan de Serra to more remote and technical sites, these tours are ideal for curious explorers and adventurous photographers alike.

Hidden within the Sierra Gorda Biosphere Reserve, the Cañón del Infiernillo is a dramatic canyon known for its steep walls, flowing water, and rich wildlife. While it is widely recognized as an excellent location for canyoning, it is also one of the best alternative places to see guacamayas in the afternoon, without the need to wake up in the middle of the night as required for a sunrise visit to Sótano del Barro.

Located near the town of Ayutla, Querétaro, Los Arquitos is a scenic swimming hole surrounded by limestone formations, clear water, and lush vegetation. Unlike many destinations in the Sierra Gorda that require long, demanding hikes, Los Arquitos offers a relaxed and enjoyable outing, making it an ideal option for travelers looking to slow down and enjoy nature at an easy pace.

Los Arquitos is just a 30-minute drive from Jalpan de Serra, making it one of the most accessible and versatile natural attractions in the region.

Hidden deep within the Sierra Gorda Biosphere Reserve, the Sótano del Barro is one of the most dramatic natural formations in the region and one of the best places in Mexico to observe guacamayas verdes (Military Macaws) in the wild. This massive open sinkhole drops hundreds of meters into the earth and serves as a nesting and resting site for these iconic birds, offering a truly unforgettable wildlife experience.

Reaching the Sótano del Barro is an adventure in itself and is best suited for travelers seeking a challenging and rewarding outing in a remote part of the Sierra Gorda.

Located within the Sierra Gorda Biosphere Reserve, the Cascada El Chuveje is one of the most famous and accessible waterfalls in Querétaro. Known for its tall cascade, turquoise pools, and lush surroundings, El Chuveje is a classic stop for visitors wanting to experience the natural beauty of the region. The waterfall is easily reached via a well-maintained trail, making it an ideal destination for travelers of all experience levels.

Nestled in the heart of the Sierra Gorda Biosphere, Puente de Dios ("Bridge of God") is a must-see destination for nature lovers and adventurers alike. This stunning natural formation is part of the El Clasico tour offered by El Camino Viejo Adventures and offers visitors a breathtaking journey through cascading waterfalls, crystal-clear pools, and lush canyon scenery. For those seeking to immerse themselves in the beauty of Querétaro’s wild landscapes, Puente de Dios is an unforgettable experience.

Nestled within the enchanting landscapes of the Sierra Gorda Biosphere Reserve, the Mirador Cuatro Palos offers one of the most breathtaking views in all of Mexico. Located in the municipality of Pinal de Amoles, Querétaro, this natural marvel invites travelers and nature enthusiasts alike to experience the serene beauty of rolling clouds, rugged mountains, and the sprawling semi-desert below.

At El Camino Viejo Adventures, we believe that every step you take in this rugged paradise should be a journey, an adventure into the heart of nature's challenges and rewards. So, without further ado, let me introduce you to our adrenaline-pumping lineup of hikes for the upcoming year!

I'm Derek Larson, a retired US Army scout with a passion for exploration that has taken me from the sands of Iraq and Afghanistan to the picturesque landscapes of the Sierra Gorda in Mexico. It's been quite a journey, and today, I'm thrilled to share with you the next chapter in my life.