Cumbres del Ajusco National Park

Cumbres del Ajusco Overview

Cumbres del Ajusco National Park, known as Parque Nacional Cumbres del Ajusco in Spanish, is located in central Mexico within the southern region of Mexico City.

Covering approximately 44.9 square miles (116.4 square kilometers), this park protects a significant portion of the Ajusco mountain range. The park’s most prominent feature is Cerro Ajusco, a volcanic peak rising to an elevation of about 12,894 feet (3,930 meters), making it the highest point in Mexico City.

The rugged terrain includes steep slopes, deep ravines, and dense pine-oak forests that are characteristic of the Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt. The vegetation primarily consists of high-altitude coniferous forests, including species such as Montezuma pine, sacred fir, and various oak trees, which provide a lush, green canopy. Alpine meadows and shrubs are also found in the park’s higher elevations, adding to its biodiversity.

The park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including several mammal species such as white-tailed deer, bobcats, ringtails, and gray foxes. More elusive predators like pumas and coyotes also inhabit the park, although sightings are rare.

The birdlife is abundant, featuring species like the red-tailed hawk, peregrine falcon, and several varieties of hummingbirds and woodpeckers. The park’s varied elevations and ecosystems provide a crucial habitat for many migratory and resident bird species, making it an important area for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts.

Visitors to Cumbres del Ajusco National Park often explore its network of trails, with hiking being the most popular activity. The ascent to Cerro Ajusco is particularly well-traveled, offering panoramic views of Mexico City and beyond.

Mountain biking is another common way to explore the park, with designated routes weaving through the forested slopes. During the winter months, occasional snowfall attracts visitors eager to experience a rare snowy landscape so close to the city. Additionally, camping and picnicking are popular among locals, providing an opportunity to escape the urban environment and immerse in nature.

Conservation efforts within the park have faced significant challenges, including illegal logging, land encroachment, and urban expansion. However, local authorities and environmental organizations have implemented reforestation programs and monitoring initiatives to mitigate these threats.

Community engagement and environmental education programs aim to increase awareness and encourage sustainable tourism practices. Despite these challenges, the park remains a vital green space for both biodiversity conservation and public recreation, offering a natural refuge within the vast metropolitan area of Mexico City.

Park Map

Cumbres del Ajusco National Park Highlights

Wildlife

Cumbres del Ajusco National Park, located in the highlands of southern Mexico City, is a rugged and mountainous region covered in pine and oak forests. Due to its high elevation and varied terrain, the park supports a rich diversity of wildlife, including large mammals, reptiles, and amphibians adapted to cooler climates.

Mexican Gray Wolf (Canis lupus baileyi)
Once native to the area, this rare subspecies of gray wolf is the focus of conservation efforts. Although rarely seen in the wild, its historical presence highlights the ecological importance of the park.

Cougar (Puma concolor)
A powerful and elusive predator, the cougar stalks through the dense forests and rocky terrain, preying on deer and small mammals.

Coyote (Canis latrans)
An adaptable species, the coyote thrives in the park’s varied landscapes, hunting rabbits, rodents, and birds while also scavenging when necessary.

White-tailed Deer (Odocoileus virginianus)
One of the most commonly spotted large mammals, the white-tailed deer is a key herbivore in the park, grazing on leaves, grasses, and shrubs.

Ring-tailed Cat (Bassariscus astutus)
A small, nocturnal carnivore, the ring-tailed cat is a skilled climber and is often found in the park’s rocky areas, hunting insects, rodents, and small birds.

Collared Peccary (Pecari tajacu)
This pig-like mammal forages in groups through the park’s forests, searching for roots, fruits, and small invertebrates.

Rock Squirrel (Otospermophilus variegatus)
A common sight on rocky outcrops and forest floors, the rock squirrel collects seeds and berries, playing a role in seed dispersal.

Mexican Pine Snake (Pituophis deppei)
This large, non-venomous constrictor helps control rodent populations and is often seen in forested and rocky areas.

Black-tailed Rattlesnake (Crotalus molossus)
A venomous but reclusive species, the black-tailed rattlesnake blends into the rocky terrain and preys on small mammals and reptiles.

Ajolote del Altiplano (Ambystoma altamirani)
A rare and unique salamander found in high-altitude streams, the ajolote del Altiplano serves as an important indicator of water quality in the park.

Birds

The high-altitude pine-oak forests and open meadows of Cumbres del Ajusco National Park provide a habitat for a variety of bird species, including raptors, songbirds, and woodpeckers.

Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos)
One of Mexico’s most iconic birds, the golden eagle soars over the park’s rugged cliffs, hunting for small mammals and birds.

Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus)
This fast-flying raptor nests on high cliffs and hunts smaller birds in mid-air using rapid dives.

Mexican Spotted Owl (Strix occidentalis lucida)
A rare and elusive nocturnal bird, the Mexican spotted owl prefers dense pine forests and preys on small mammals and birds.

Steller’s Jay (Cyanocitta stelleri)
This intelligent and striking blue-and-black bird is commonly seen in the park’s forests, scavenging for food and mimicking other birds’ calls.

Acorn Woodpecker (Melanerpes formicivorus)
A social bird known for its habit of storing acorns in tree trunks, the acorn woodpecker is a common sight in the park’s pine forests.

Red Warbler (Cardellina rubra)
A bright red songbird often found in high-altitude forests, the red warbler flits through the trees in search of insects.

Mountain Trogon (Trogon mexicanus)
With its green back, red belly, and long tail, the mountain trogon is a beautiful species found in the park’s dense forests.

Broad-winged Hawk (Buteo platypterus)
A migratory raptor that visits the park during seasonal migrations, the broad-winged hawk preys on small mammals, reptiles, and birds.

White-eared Hummingbird (Basilinna leucotis)
A small but striking hummingbird with a white stripe behind its eyes, this species is commonly seen feeding on nectar from the park’s flowers.

Gray Silky-flycatcher (Ptiliogonys cinereus)
A soft-gray bird with a long tail, the gray silky-flycatcher is often found in flocks feeding on berries and insects.