Take a hike in Puerto Rico

October 16, 1:13 AMCarolinas Travel ExaminerPaul McDaniel

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Hiking in Puerto Rico (Paul McDaniel)

Now that colder weather of later fall is beginning to set in, signaling that winter is looming on the horizon, it is time to start thinking about a winter vacation. Consider taking a break to a sunny, warm, tropical destination, away from the grey skies and cold weather of the winter season. A trip to a Caribbean island such as Puerto Rico offers just such and opportunity. Puerto Rico is one of the larger Caribbean islands, offering ample variety of activities for all sorts of interests. Although most people think of the beach when they think of the Caribbean, there is much more to see and do, particularly on an island the size of Puerto Rico. In particular, hiking is one popular outdoor activity on this mountainous island. Puerto Rico offers hikers the chance to climb mountains, journey through tropical rainforests and dry forests, as well as urban hike in a historic colonial center city. With this in mind, check out the article “5 Great Hikes of Puerto Rico” that I wrote for another travel website.

When people think of a Caribbean island, beautiful palm-lined beaches are typically the first scene that comes to mind. However, the Caribbean island of Puerto Rico, although containing many wonderful beaches, offers much more. Travelers interested in exploring other areas of the island, particularly in the interior, may wish to take a hike on one of the islands spectacular trails. Puerto Rico is about 40 miles wide from north to south and around 110 miles long from east to west. The island is very mountainous, with the Cordillera Central stretching from east to west. This varied topography, combined with several differing climate regions, makes for some great hiking. So the next time you head to Puerto Rico, don't forget to pack your hiking shoes!”

• El Yunque (tropical rainforest) in Caribbean National Forest
• Cerro Punta (highest point in Puerto Rico at 4,390 ft.) in Toro Negro State Forest (Bosque Estatal de Toro Negro)
• Guánica State Forest (Bosque Estatal Guánica)
• Cabo Rojo National Wildlife Refuge
• Urban Hiking in Old San Juan (Viejo San Juan)