La Mina Falls El Yunque Puerto Rico
A once-popular cascade in El Yunque, La Mina Falls offered a refreshing swim. The trail is currently closed due to hurricane damage, with tentative re...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better parking
La Mina Falls El Yunque Puerto Rico
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A once-popular cascade in El Yunque, La Mina Falls offered a refreshing swim. The trail is currently closed due to hurricane damage, with tentative reopening in late 2025.
"This is a beautiful waterfall and I think it is one of the most popular ones in Puerto Rico."
Check Trail Status First
La Mina Falls trail has been closed since 2017. Verify current access before you go!
Explore Independently
No tour needed! Trails are well-marked. Parking is the main challenge.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
La Mina Falls
El Yunque National Forest
A stunning cascade with a natural pool, once a popular swimming spot. Access is currently restricted.
El Yunque Rainforest
Northeastern Puerto Rico
Explore the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System. Discover diverse flora and fauna.
Los Picachos del Yunque
El Yunque National Forest
Scenic viewpoints offering panoramic vistas of the rainforest and surrounding areas.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Status & Access
Navigating El Yunque
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Trail Status First
La Mina Falls trail has been closed since 2017. Verify current access before you go!
Explore Independently
No tour needed! Trails are well-marked. Parking is the main challenge.
Grab a Forest Map
Visitor center maps are helpful for navigating El Yunque's accessible areas.
Be Prepared for Rain
It's a rainforest! Pack accordingly, even on sunny days.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Trail Status First
La Mina Falls trail has been closed since 2017. Verify current access before you go!
Explore Independently
No tour needed! Trails are well-marked. Parking is the main challenge.
Grab a Forest Map
Visitor center maps are helpful for navigating El Yunque's accessible areas.
Be Prepared for Rain
It's a rainforest! Pack accordingly, even on sunny days.
Respect Nature
Avoid climbing wet rocks near falls; it's dangerous.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
La Mina Falls is a highly sought-after destination, praised for its stunning beauty and refreshing waters. However, its closure since Hurricane Maria in 2017, compounded by Hurricane Fiona, means access is currently restricted, disappointing many visitors. Despite this, the surrounding El Yunque National Forest remains a must-visit for its lush rainforest and scenic views.
"Very picturesque. Stop at the Tower for great views!"
Kc Mitchell
"This is a beautiful waterfall and I think it is one of the most popular ones in Puerto Rico. Unfortunately it has been shut down since the Hurricane.
It is located at the end of the most popular trail in the El Yunque National Forest. The trail follows the course of the La Mina river, passing many tiny Cascades and tiny pools filled with cold and clear mountain water.
The trail begins at the Palo Colorado Information center located at PR 191, 12.2 KM mark. You will need special permission from the authorities to get there since it's the trail is closed down due to the hurricane."
Chamal Mediwaka
"This waterfall is in the EL Yunque National Park, a tropical rain forest in Rio Grande, Puerto Rico. El Yunque is a must see item in my view as part of any trip to Puerto Rico- its really a unique place.
Many of the trails in El Yunque are still closed because of Hurricane Maria which occurred about two years ago. However I saw many people at or near the La Mina Falls. It is right off the side of the road. Many people climb the rocks near the falls. I wouldn't recommend it as the rocks are quite wet and you can easily break an arm or injure yourself. However many of the people on our tour were doing this and were having a great time.
El Yunque and Cascada La Mina are amazingly beautiful places that everyone should get to at least once in their lifetimes."
Robert Feder
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The trail to La Mina Falls has been closed since Hurricane Maria in 2017 and is not expected to fully reopen until late 2025. While the trail is inaccessible, you can still visit other parts of El Yunque National Forest. Drive along PR 191 and explore accessible areas. Parking can be difficult, so arriving early is recommended.
Yes, El Yunque National Forest is generally open, but many trails, including the one to La Mina Falls, remain closed due to hurricane damage. Always check the official U.S. Forest Service website for the most up-to-date information on open areas and trails.
Yes, you can drive through El Yunque National Forest via PR 191. This scenic road offers access to various viewpoints and some open trails. Be aware that access to certain areas might be restricted.
Many visitors find it easy to explore El Yunque independently by driving and following marked trails. You can grab a map from the visitor center for guidance. Guided tours are available but not essential for exploring accessible areas.
Public transportation directly to El Yunque National Forest is limited. Most visitors rent a car or join organized tours. Taxis or ride-sharing services might be available from nearby towns, but can be expensive.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
El Yunque National Forest is free to enter. However, some specific areas or trails might require reservations or have limited access, especially during peak seasons. It's always best to check the official El Yunque website for any reservation requirements before your visit.
El Yunque National Forest is typically open daily from sunrise to sunset. However, specific facilities like visitor centers or certain roads may have different operating hours. Check the official El Yunque website for the most current information.
There is no entrance fee for El Yunque National Forest itself. However, the trail to La Mina Falls has been closed since 2017 due to hurricane damage and is not currently accessible for hiking or swimming.
Yes, guided tours for El Yunque National Forest are available and can enhance your experience by providing insights into the rainforest's ecology and history. However, many visitors find it easy and rewarding to explore independently.
Due to ongoing recovery efforts from hurricanes, some trails and areas within El Yunque National Forest may have restricted access. It's crucial to check the official El Yunque website for any alerts or closures before your visit.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Swimming at La Mina Falls was a popular activity, but the trail has been closed since 2017 due to hurricane damage. Access to the falls and its pool is currently restricted.
While La Mina Falls trail is closed, other trails like Juan Diego Creek, Mount Britton Tower, and Yokahú Tower offer beautiful rainforest experiences. Always check which trails are currently open and safe for hiking. +1
Wear comfortable, lightweight clothing and sturdy, closed-toe hiking shoes. Bring a rain jacket or poncho, as rain is frequent in the rainforest. Insect repellent is also a good idea.
El Yunque offers stunning scenery, including other waterfalls, scenic drives like PR 191, observation towers (Mount Britton, Yokahú), and diverse plant and animal life. Los Picachos del Yunque provides great views. +1
El Yunque is generally safe, but visitors should exercise caution. Stick to marked trails, be aware of slippery surfaces, especially near water, and heed all posted signs and warnings.
📸 📸 Photography
Iconic spots include the views from Yokahú Tower and Mount Britton Tower, scenic overlooks along PR 191, and the lush rainforest vegetation. Even with La Mina Falls closed, the surrounding forest offers incredible photographic opportunities.
Absolutely! El Yunque is a photographer's paradise. Capture the vibrant greenery, misty mountains, and any accessible waterfalls or scenic vistas. Remember to be respectful of the environment.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive rainforest. A waterproof camera or a good phone case is advisable due to the humidity and potential for rain. A tripod can be useful for low-light conditions.
Drone usage is generally restricted in U.S. National Forests, including El Yunque, to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. Always check the official El Yunque National Forest regulations regarding drone operation before your visit.
Early morning or late afternoon often provides the best light, with softer shadows and a more atmospheric feel. However, the misty, diffused light of a rainy day can also create dramatic and unique photographic opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack plenty of snacks and water, and be prepared for rain with ponchos. The drive along PR 191 offers numerous pull-offs for scenic views and short walks. Emphasize the importance of staying on marked paths and supervising children closely, especially near any water features.
🚶♀️ Hikers & Nature Enthusiasts
Be prepared for humid conditions and frequent rain showers. Sturdy hiking boots are essential due to potentially slippery surfaces. Always check the official El Yunque website for the most current trail status and any safety advisories before your hike.
📸 Photographers
Capture the unique light filtering through the dense canopy, the textures of moss-covered trees, and the panoramic vistas. A wide-angle lens is recommended to encompass the grandeur of the rainforest. Be sure to protect your gear from the humidity and potential rain.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Impact of Hurricanes on El Yunque
More recently, Hurricane Fiona in 2022 further hindered recovery efforts. While the forest service is working diligently on repairs and restoration, the process is slow and ongoing. The tentative reopening date for La Mina Falls is late 2025, highlighting the long-term effects of these powerful storms.
Despite these closures, El Yunque remains a resilient and beautiful place. Visitors can still explore accessible areas, appreciating the ongoing regrowth and the forest's enduring natural splendor. The community remains hopeful for a full recovery and the reopening of all its cherished natural wonders.
Exploring El Yunque Independently
To make the most of an independent visit, it's recommended to arrive early in the morning to secure parking and enjoy the trails with fewer people. Grabbing a map from the visitor center can be helpful for planning your route, though not strictly necessary if you're comfortable with self-guided exploration.
While La Mina Falls trail is closed, there are still numerous scenic drives, viewpoints like Yokahú Tower, and other accessible hiking paths to discover. Embracing the adventure and exploring at your own pace allows for a personalized experience of this unique tropical rainforest.
The Significance of La Mina Falls
Its popularity meant it was often crowded, but the experience was widely considered worth the effort. The falls represented a quintessential Puerto Rican natural wonder, drawing visitors from around the globe. The closure following Hurricane Maria has left a significant void for both locals and tourists.
While the physical access to La Mina Falls is currently restricted, its memory and importance persist. The ongoing efforts to restore the trail underscore its value as a natural treasure. Many hope for its eventual reopening, allowing future generations to experience its beauty once more.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit