Chipinque La M Hike: Private Tour with Local Guide & Snacks

Summary

Private hike to La M summit in Chipinque Park with guide

You’ll hike through pine forests up to La M’s summit in Chipinque Park with a local guide from Monterrey. Expect city views, wildlife sightings (if you’re lucky), snacks and drinks at the top, plus shared photos after your day. It’s a sweaty climb but there’s real joy in reaching that wide-open summit — something you’ll remember long after heading home.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll be honest — we almost missed the entrance to Chipinque Ecological Park because I was too busy gawking at the city waking up behind us. Our guide, Rodrigo, just grinned and said it happens all the time; apparently Monterrey’s skyline is a distraction even for locals. It was early but already warm, and the air smelled like pine needles and something sweet I couldn’t place — maybe wildflowers? We strapped on our helmets (never worn one for hiking before) and set off toward La M, which Rodrigo called “the mountain everyone in San Pedro knows by heart.”

The first part of the trail felt easy enough — birds everywhere, flashes of blue and yellow darting through the trees. Rodrigo pointed out some coati tracks in the mud (I’d never heard of them before), and told us about how sometimes you can spot deer or even bears if you’re lucky. I kept hoping for a bear but secretly relieved we didn’t see one. The climb got steeper after a while, especially at this rocky bit called el chorreadero. My legs were burning but there was this weird satisfaction in it — like you’re earning every view.

At the top of La M, it’s just…wide open. You get Monterrey spread out on one side, all haze and city noise far below, then turn around and there’s nothing but green folds of Sierra Madre Oriental rolling away forever. Rodrigo handed out cold sodas and some salty snacks (I think I ate half the bag without realizing). We sat on a rock ledge for a while not saying much — just listening to wind in the trees and someone’s distant laughter echoing up from another group below. I still think about that silence sometimes.

On the way down my shoes slipped once on loose gravel — nothing dramatic but enough for Rodrigo to joke that I’d “earned my stripes.” He took photos for us along the way (which he sent later), so I didn’t have to worry about fumbling with my phone every five minutes. By the time we reached the bottom again, my shirt was soaked through but I felt lighter somehow. Maybe it was just being outside that long or maybe something about those mountains sticks with you longer than you expect.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Hiking to La M Summit

• Hike through forest with panoramic views
• Ascend challenging chorreadero and summit
• Enjoy drinks and snacks at end

Top questions

How hard is the hike to La M in Chipinque?

The hike is moderately challenging with some steep sections near the summit; good physical fitness is recommended.

Is this a private hiking tour?

Yes, this is a private hiking experience led by a local guide.

Are snacks or drinks included on this tour?

Yes, snacks and both soft drinks and alcoholic beverages are included during your hike.

What safety measures are provided?

The tour includes safety equipment such as mountain helmets and adventure accident insurance.

Can children join this hike?

This tour is not recommended for children under 12 years old.

Will I get photos from my hike?

Yes, all photos taken during your tour will be shared with you afterward.

Is hotel pickup included?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; public transportation options are available nearby.

Are there wildlife sightings on this route?

You may see animals like deer, coatis, wild boars, colorful birds, or even bears if lucky.

Can people with disabilities join?

The tour can be facilitated for people with disabilities if notified in advance and possible for their needs.

What’s included

Your day includes guidance from a local expert throughout Chipinque Ecological Park, use of mountain helmets for safety, adventure accident insurance coverage, plenty of snacks along with both soft drinks and alcoholic beverages at rest stops, plus all photos taken during your private hiking experience will be shared afterward.