Table of Contents:
- Introduction
- History
- The Four Dinamos
- How to Get There
- Things to Do
- Best Hiking Trails
- Tips
- Where to Eat
- Wildlife
- Curious Facts and Urban Legends
- Conclusion
- Informative Video
Introduction
Los Dinamos is a beautiful place in Mexico City. Many people love to go to this place to walk, hike, and enjoy nature. This beautiful place is special because it has green trees, clean rivers, fresh air, and old history. Los Dinamos is called a hidden hiking paradise because not everyone knows about it. But when you go there, you feel very happy and relaxed.
This national park has four big areas called the Four Dinamos. Each Dinamo has something nice to see and do. You can walk on trails, have a picnic, ride a bike, or watch birds. Some people like to go alone to think and relax. Other people bring their family and friends to have some fun.
In this article, you will learn about this mysterious yet peaceful place, its history, how to get there, the things you can do, the best hiking trails, tips to have a good visit, where to eat, what animals live there, and some strange and scary stories about this interesting yet kind of spooky place.
Let’s start this journey to discover the most beautiful and famous hidden hiking paradise of Mexico City.
History of Los Dinamos
This natural place has a long history. Many years ago, people built machines here. These machines were called dynamos, which make electricity. “Dynamo” means a machine that makes power.
In the past, there was a big textile factory near the river. The river helped turn the wheels of the machines and the workers used the river water to make the machines work. The machines made cloth and other things. Today, the old buildings are not used for factories. But you can still see some ruins which are part of the history of Los Dinamos.
Many people do not know that this place was an important spot for work. The factories were very active in the 19th and 20th centuries. Later, the factories closed and nature started to take back the land. Trees and plants grew again. Now, Los Dinamos is a natural park and a place where people go to be close to nature.
When you walk in the forest, you can think about the people who worked here many years ago. You can also see old walls and stones. This makes Los Dinamos a place with history and beauty.
The Four Dinamos
Los Dinamos has four sections. Each section is called a Dinamo. They are named the First Dinamo, Second Dinamo, Third Dinamo, and Fourth Dinamo.
First Dinamo:
The First Dinamo is easy to reach. Many people come here because it is near the entrance. It has picnic tables, playgrounds for children, and small shops. You can buy food, drinks, and souvenirs. This area is good if you want to relax and have lunch with your family.
Second Dinamo:
The Second Dinamo is bigger. Here, you will find more trails to walk. There is a river that passes through this Dinamo. You can hear the sound of water. It is very peaceful. Some people come here to fish. Others just sit and watch the river.
Third Dinamo:
The Third Dinamo is a little more wild. The trees are taller, and there are more rocks. People who like adventure enjoy this Dinamo. You can see waterfalls and big cliffs. This is a good place to take photos.
Fourth Dinamo:
The Fourth Dinamo is the most far away. It is also the most natural. If you want to feel like you are deep in the forest, you should go to the Fourth Dinamo. Many hiking trails start here. Some people camp in this area. Each Dinamo has something special. When you visit this place, you can explore all four Dinamos in one day if you want. But many people like to spend more time in each Dinamo.
How to Get to Los Dinamos
It is located in the Magdalena Contreras area of Mexico City. It is not too far from the city center. Here are some ways to get there:
By Car:
If you have a car, you can drive to this destination. There is a parking area near the entrance. You can use GPS and write “Los Dinamos” to find the location. It takes about 30–45 minutes from downtown Mexico City, depending on traffic.
By Taxi or Rideshare:
You can also take a taxi or use apps like Uber or Didi. Just tell the driver to take you to Los Dinamos (first, second, third or fourth Dinamo). This is easy, but sometimes traffic is heavy.
By Public Bus:
If you want to use public transport, you can take a bus. From the metro station Miguel Ángel de Quevedo, there are buses that go to Los Dinamos. It takes longer, maybe one hour, but it is cheap.
By Bike:
Some people like to ride a bike to this place. This is for strong cyclists because the road goes up and has many turns. When you get to Los Dinamos, you will see the main entrance. There is a gate and some signs. You can also get a map. This will help you find the Four Dinamos and the hiking trails.
Things to Do in Los Dinamos
Los Dinamos is not only for hiking. There are many fun things you can do:
- Hiking: There are many trails for all levels.
- Picnics: There are tables and open spaces to eat.
- Cycling: You can ride a mountain bike on special trails.
- Horse Riding: People rent horses to ride in the forest.
- Camping: In some areas, you can camp overnight.
- Fishing: You can fish in the river in some spots.
- Photography: There are many beautiful places to take photos.
- Bird Watching: Many birds live in Los Dinamos. Bring binoculars.
- Meditate: Enjoy a moment of peace of mind.
- You can get in the water: In the river, you can dip your toes and relax with nature for a while.
- Climbing: Some cliffs are good for climbing with a guide. When you go to Los Dinamos, you can do one thing or many things. It is a place for adventure and also for rest.
Best Hiking Trails in Los Dinamos
This magical and enormous forest is famous for hiking. There are many trails you can try. Here are some of the best ones:
- Trail to the Fourth Dinamo:
This is a long trail. You walk from the First Dinamo to the Fourth Dinamo. It takes about 2 hours one way. You will see rivers, bridges, and big trees. - Waterfall Trail:
This trail goes to a big waterfall in the Third Dinamo. The water falls from a tall rock. It is very nice to see. The trail is not too hard. - River Trail:
This is an easy trail. It goes along the river. You can walk and hear the sound of water. Many people like this trail because it is relaxing. - Cliff Trail:
This trail goes up to a high cliff. From the top, you can see all of Los Dinamos. Be careful because it is steep. - Secret Path:
Some people say there is a secret path between the Third and Fourth Dinamo. It is not on the map. But locals know about it. If you like adventure, you can look for it. When you hike in this forest, always wear good shoes. Bring water and snacks. And do not leave trash.
Tips for Visitors
Here are some tips to have a good day in this hiking paradise:
- Come early: In the morning, there are fewer people.
- Wear comfy clothes: Prepare your best shoes good for walking.
- Bring a jacket: Sometimes it gets cold.
- Take cash: In some shops do not take cards.
- Watch your things: Keep your phone and bag safe.
- Respect nature: Do not cut plants or feed animals. Also, if you are coming with your dog, pick up the trash.
- Don’t forget your water: Stay hydrated while you walk.
- Tell someone: If you hike alone, tell a friend.
- Check the time: It gets dark early in winter.
- Use sunscreen: The sun is strong even in the forest.
- Bring your best and sporty attitude: These tips will help you enjoy Los Dinamos safely.
Where to Eat in Los Dinamos
When you feel hungry, there are places to eat in this natural gem. Near the First Dinamo, you will see small restaurants where locals sell tacos, quesadillas, grilled meat, and drinks. You can sit at a table and eat fresh food. Some people bring their own food. There are many picnic areas with tables and chairs. If you do this, please clean up after. Also, if you want something special, look for a restaurant called “Los Dinamos El Mirador.” It has a view of the forest and they serve hot meals and drinks like atole and cafe de olla. There are also people who sell snacks like corn, tamales, and sweets.
Wildlife in Los Dinamos
Los Dinamos has many animals. When you walk in Los Dinamos, look around. You may see:
- Squirrels climbing trees
- Many birds singing
- Butterflies flying
- Small lizards on rocks
- Rabbits hiding in grass
- At night, some animals come out like foxes. But they are shy.
- Los Dinamos is also home to insects and plants. There are pine trees, flowers, and mushrooms.
- When you see animals, do not touch them. They are wild and need to stay free.
Curious Facts and Urban Legends of Los Dinamos
Los Dinamos is beautiful. But it also has strange stories. Some people say Los Dinamos has secrets. Here are some creepy legends:
- The Crying Woman:
People say they hear a woman crying near the river at night. Some think it is La Llorona, a ghost looking for her children. - The Shadow Man:
Hikers have told stories about a black shadow moving between trees. They say it follows them but disappears if you look back. - The Lost Miner:
A long time ago, a miner got lost in the caves near Los Dinamos. His spirit still walks the trails. Sometimes you hear steps but see no one. In fact, you can spot many secret and spooky caves around the forest. Do you dare to enter one? - The Hidden Tunnel:
Some say there is a tunnel that goes under Los Dinamos. It leads to a secret room. No one knows where the entrance is. - The Whispering Wind:
At night, the wind makes sounds like whispers. People think the forest is talking. These stories make Los Dinamos more mysterious. If you like scary tales, ask locals to tell you more.
More stories…
If you’ve followed some of my previous posts on this blog, you may have noticed that I’m a big fan of horror. I have heard many legends and stories about this place. Being a little far away from the most bustling part of Mexico City, this forest hides some bizarre things. For example, I have heard about sects or cults that come here to perform rituals and sacrifices. In fact, at the entrance of the place, you can find different signs that ask “not to throw waste from rituals into the river or damage nature with this kind of garbage”.
It is very true that the energy, the vibe and the atmosphere, as you go further and further away from the beaten path, feels heavier and darker. Plus when it gets dark, you can feel that something is not right. Imagine how much energy there is in these huge forests. Who knows if there are people who actually cast spells or do other things at night here. What is certain, is that this place is also perfect for lovers of mystery and hidden gems of Mexico that many visitors from other countries have never even heard of. What do you say? Shall we go on a Halloween hiking trip here? Will be waiting your answer in the comment section below!
Conclusion
Los Dinamos is a treasure in Mexico City. It has four Dinamos, each with beauty. You can hike, eat, rest, and feel happy in Los Dinamos. When you go to Los Dinamos, you walk in history, you see nature, you feel peace. And maybe, you hear a secret story in the trees, or even you can find a hidden treasure. Now you know where this natural paradise is located in Mexico City, how to get there, what to do, what to eat and more.
Besides, you already know that there are too many legends and mysteries surrounding the forest. If you want to make a trip different from the typical itineraries when you travel to Mexico City, you can come to this magical hidden place. Apart from Chapultepec forest, this is another great lung of fresh air and nature in this chaotic city. Enjoy the gifts that Mother Nature gives you when you visit Mexico.
Los Dinamos waits for you! Come and find this hidden hiking paradise. Bring your friends or come alone, just remember to respect this special place. Los Dinamos will give you good memories, and maybe, a little adventure too. Tell us in the comment section if you ever plan to visit this place. Happy hiking adventurer!