Mount Britton Tower – El Yunque National Forest loop from El Yunque National Forest
Mount Britton Tower – El Yunque National Forest loop from El Yunque National Forest
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Mount Britton Tower – El Yunque National Forest loop from El Yunque National Forest
03:47
10.3km
470m
Hiking
Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: March 20, 2026
Tips
Includes a segment that may be dangerous
A part of this route comprises technical, difficult, or hazardous terrain. Specialist equipment and prior experience may be required.
After 2.89 km for 461 m
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
3.10 km
Los Picachos Observation Tower
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
4.26 km
Shelter at the Intersection of El Yunque Trail and Mt. Britton Spur
Highlight • Rest Area
Tip by
4.93 km
Valley View
Highlight • Viewpoint
4.93 km
Mount Britton Tower
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
6.52 km
El Yunque Rock
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
6.56 km
El Yunque Communications Tower
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
8.20 km
El Yunque Rainforest
Highlight • Forest
Tip by
8.86 km
El Yunque National Forest
Highlight • Forest
10.3 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
5.03 km
3.12 km
1.21 km
505 m
445 m
Surfaces
4.11 km
4.04 km
1.21 km
576 m
373 m
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Elevation
Highest point (1,020 m)
Lowest point (660 m)
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Weather
Powered by Foreca
Today
Friday 12 June
31°C
23°C
11 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 11.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a challenging and rewarding hike in El Yunque National Forest, the Mount Britton Tower – El Yunque National Forest loop from El Yunque National Forest is a fantastic choice. This difficult 6.4-mile (10.3 km) hiking route features a significant 1532 feet (467 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 3 hours and 46 minutes to complete. It's perfect for hikers seeking a strenuous workout with incredible panoramic Mount Britton Tower views, especially if you're prepared for varied El Yunque National Forest trail conditions.
What to expect on Mount Britton Tower – El Yunque National Forest loop from El Yunque National Forest
The trail quickly ascends through the vibrant Sierra Palm forest, where you'll notice unique trees with buttress roots clinging to the soil. The path itself is often paved or well-maintained stone, but be aware it can be narrow and slippery, particularly after rain. As you climb, you'll cross two rushing mountain streams before entering the misty Cloud Forest, a constantly changing environment rich with beautiful flowers and dense tropical vegetation. The highlight is undoubtedly the historic Mount Britton Tower, offering captivating views of the forest canopy, the Atlantic Ocean, and the Caribbean Sea on clear days, making the Mount Britton Tower trail elevation gain difficulty well worth the effort.
Planning your visit
This loop connects several paths, including Forest Service Road 10, which is closed to public vehicle traffic. While the trail is generally considered moderate for its out-and-back section, this full loop is difficult and requires good fitness. Wear sturdy shoes with good tread due to potentially slippery conditions, and be prepared for frequent rainfall in this rainforest environment. There are multiple rest shelters along the way if you need a break.
Trail details
- Distance: 6.4 miles (10.3 km)
- Elevation gain: 1532 feet (467 metres)
- Difficulty: difficult
- Estimated time: 3 hours and 46 minutes
Comments
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