Features:
The splendor of the Monteverde Cloud Forest and its abundant flora and fauna are another top destination for nature-loving visitors to Costa Rica. Most travelers will find a home base in the nearby town of Santa Elena, though there are accommodations in the park. Our recommended running options in the Santa Elena/Monteverde area:
Main Road (620), which runs for 5.6 km (3.5 miles) from from Santa Elena to the park entrance, is suitable for running. There is only a sidewalk for about 1.6 km at the top of the road, but if you go early in the morning before bus tours to the park begin, the road sees very little traffic. Most drivers are accustomed to pedestrians on this road. Shorter option: runners can turn around near the Lecheria (Cheese Factory). Longer option: continue on to the park’s many trails. MAP
Trail running options in Monteverde Reserve are plentiful — these are some of the best maintained trails in Costa Rica, with very few obstacles. One great option is the El Camino (The Road) trail, a wide, flat 2 km pathway. Note: Set hours/admission. TRAIL INFO
Curi-Cancha Cloud Forest Reserve. There are some nice trails in this area, about halfway between Santa Elena and the Monteverde reserve. TRAIL INFO
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