Cerro Pelado is an amazing intermediate hiking experience located near the town of Tilarán, which is just off the southwestern shore of Lake Arenal and about a 1.5 hours drive west of La Fortuna and Monteverde. It’s a stunning hiking destination to stop by when making your way from Monteverde or La Fortuna towards the Nicoya Peninsula or South Pacific Coast of Costa Rica.
The Cerro Pelado peak is an extinct volcano that reaches about 600 meters above sea level. It is the point where the winds from the Pacific Coast and Caribbean coasts meet, making for a bare, mountainous hike with spectacular views of the surrounding area.
The first part of the hike is a steep climb about 1km straight to the Cerro Pelado peak and is the most difficult part of the climb. After this there are a few trails branching off, with the main one being about ~1.5kms along the hills that will take you to the “Gorilla Peak” for the most amazing views of the region. There is also a trail to the left of the Cerro Pelado peak which will take you about 800m to a small creek and natural pool, which is a nice way to cool off after an intense uphill hike.
It is highly recommended to start by about 4am or 3pm to experience the sunrise/sunset during this hike. Make sure you have all the proper hiking gear including good shoes, flashlight/headlamps, snacks, and plenty of water. Be prepared for it to be pretty windy and chilly at the top (especially during the dry season months of December-March), so bring proper clothes to protect from the wind and stay warm.
You will be able to park your car at the parking lot for ₡3000, and they have access to sanitary services including bathrooms, showers and potable water so you even have the option to camp the night before making the climb to watch the sunrise.
