Hiking Jorullo Bridge and Sierra Madre Occidental

Hiking Jorullo Bridge and Sierra Madre Occidental in Puerto Vallarta may not be the most popular tour for visitors, but it should be. The epic views of jungle foliage, challenging climbs and rewarding waterfall swims are a picture of quintessential Mexican adventure tourism.

The hike is a workout for sure, but an accessible one. At an eight-kilometer loop (or nearly five miles), hikers begin with a trek across the highest and widest suspension bridge in the world (don’t be scared, it sustains the weight of several four-wheelers at a time with little movement) and some of the most motivating views a hike can offer. Take in the incredibly thick, green foliage of the mountains while zip lines whiz by in the distance.

Grab a drink at the bar (yes, there is a bar at the beginning of the hike) and begin your two-hour expedition. Be sure to bring water, bug spray, sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat. Wear a swimsuit under your hiking clothes and bring water shoes — there will be a swimming break under the waterfall at the middle of the hike.

Head up the mountain, learning about different indigenous trees and animals, and keep an eye out for roaming cows. Once you get to the waterfall, you’ll definitely have worked up enough of a sweat to want to jump in and stay in. Bask in the refreshing, rushing water and work up the nerve to get out, get dressed and hit the trail again, just another 20–30 minutes or so.

Once back at the start, enjoy your hard-earned tequila tasting and guacamole before hitting the road on to your next adventure — or shower. If hiking isn’t your thing, Canopy River has a lot more to offer.