DESIERTO DE LOS LEONES TRAIL - 15K
Runner on the ground - CITLA
“The Holy Desert of Our Lady Carmen of the mountains of Santa Fe”
The former convent “Desert of the Lions” located about 2960 meters above sea level, is where we will begin our visit, let’s learn about the history of this magnificent seventeenth century building.
The convent had a single door with a sign on top where you could read a message from Pope Clement VIII, prohibiting women from entering, under penalty of being excommunicated, since it was a place of peace and renunciation for the monks who lived there.
After touring the Convent, the adventure begins, 15 km of trail along trails where we’ll discover some of the chapels used by the monks for spiritual retreats.
The chapels also had a small garden in which the monks grew some of their food, because once inside the chapel, they could not leave or receive food from the convent.
Although it seems hard to believe, this was a place with wild cats, jaguars, wolves and coyotes, so, imagine the sounds at night in such a secluded place.
“The Desert of the Lions” was at first, a forest reserve in order to protect the existing springs that provided water to the city. And then it became the first National Park in the country
After our tour we will enjoy a lunch with typical local food and a delicious coffee.
Do not miss this adventure in this wonderful place, just 30 minutes from Mexico City.
Claire –
Do not miss the chance to immerse yourself in the deep peace of the forest. I loved every moment of this beautiful run in the clean fresh air of the mountains.
Citla is kind, attentive and very experienced. I am not a trail runner but I felt very comfortable. The altitude adds a challenge but you can go at your own pace and walk breaks are when you really hear the birdsong in the deep peace of this magical place.
Don’t hesitate! It was the best thing I ever did in Mexico. I enjoyed Citla’s company so much and a hearty Mexican breakfast in the trees was the perfect way to refuel.
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Chris –
Citla took us on an amazing trail run. She was incredibly helpful and communicative in the days leading up to the run. She was great company on a scenic run in one of the national park within Mexico City. I highly recommend a guided run with Citla!
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