Running In The Desertic Mountains Of La Huasteca Park At Monterrey Nuevo Leon.

Embarking on a trail running adventure is more than just a physical journey; it's a voyage into the heart of nature, where every step tells a story. This is a tale of two brothers, Jose and David Ramirez, who ventured into the rugged terrains of La Huasteca Park in Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, driven by the spirit of adventure and the wisdom of the sea turtle. Our unexpected journey unfolds in the windswept landscapes, where the desert meets the sky, and every trail holds a new discovery.

The Sunset is coming

The Unexpected Turn to La Huasteca Park

How did we end up at La Huasteca Park, you might wonder? The story begins on February 4th, a day that seemed less than ideal for our beloved trail running. The morning brought breaking news of extreme winds causing chaos; trees were being uprooted, transforming the landscape into a whirlwind of nature's raw power. Initially, this news seemed to spell the end for our eagerly anticipated Saturday run. As avid enthusiasts of woodland trails, the thought of missing our weekend ritual was disheartening. The woods, usually a place of serene beauty and tranquility, were now a danger zone, besieged by the fierce winds. Enormous trees, which we had always admired for their majestic presence, were now vulnerable, a stark reminder of nature's unpredictable force. Yet, it's fascinating how adversity can steer us towards new paths. The same forces of nature that wreaked havoc also sculpt and adapt the environment in awe-inspiring ways. This realization sparked an idea; if the woods were off-limits, why not explore new terrain? Thus, our disappointment was quickly replaced by a burgeoning sense of adventure. La Huasteca Park, with its rugged, desertic landscapes, presented itself as the perfect alternative. Far removed from the precarious woodlands, it offered a safe yet equally thrilling running experience. It was a reminder that sometimes, when one door closes, another opens to reveal a path less trodden but full of potential.

Chapter 1 - Road to la huasteca park

The adventure begins the moment you decide to pack your trail running gear. In my case, a Salomon ADV Skin 8 backpack was the carrier of choice, accompanied by the all-important decision of selecting the right trail running shoes. Considering the weather and terrain—will it be rocky, muddy, or a mix? —is crucial. For the rocky paths of La Huasteca, filled with their notoriously tricky stones, I opted for the Nike Zegama shoes, perfect for the challenging terrain ahead.

Attempting to purchase a ticket to my favorite mountain in Monterrey proved futile; the system was down due to weather conditions. Yet, this was the confirmation I needed: La Huasteca it was. Undeterred by the minor setback, I gathered my essentials: car keys, sport beans, and my Salomon backpack stocked with water, and set out for Chipinque, hoping for access. However, our plans were thwarted right from the start by guards turning everyone away at the entrance.

La Huasteca Park Road To La Presa Rompe Picos

"No worries," I reassured my brother, "Let's head to La Huasteca. We're prepared, regardless." So began our drive, documented in the time-lapse video at the beginning of this chapter. We navigated through the picturesque streets of San Pedro Garza Garcia, famed for being one of the most secure and affluent areas in Latin America—a place where one can run at 3 AM without a hint of worry.

Our journey took us past the dry bed of the Santa Catarina River and over the impressive Atirantado Bridge, all the way to Santa Catarina, where the gateway to La Huasteca awaited. Entering the reserve, the immediate envelopment of mountains capturing our entire field of view was nothing short of breathtaking. Despite the early morning's adverse weather, there was a surprising turnout of people, though not overwhelming.

Eager to delve deeper, we drove 15km towards La Presa Rompe Picos, scouting for a place to park. The real adventure was about to begin. Chapter 2 - Warm-up Road to the Presa Rompe Picos Big Gate

Upon arriving at La Huasteca, we found a parking spot approximately 1km away from the Presa Rompe Picos. Eager to immerse ourselves in the adventure, we immediately began to warm up our bodies, stretching thoroughly to prepare for the journey ahead. We plan to share a video detailing our full-body stretch routine soon, ensuring everyone is ready to embrace the wilderness with vigor.

A seemingly untouched path near our car sparked our curiosity, promising the allure of undiscovered trails. Venturing onto this path, we were quickly enveloped by the serene silence of nature, with only our footsteps on the rocky ground and our steady breathing accompanying us. The tranquility was a stark contrast to the bustling city life, reminding us of the sheer beauty of the wilderness as the sun began its descent.

A new path

However, our exploration led us to realize we had unwittingly trespassed onto private property. With respect for the land and its owners, we retraced our steps back to the starting point.

Back on the main road, we blended into the flow of outdoor enthusiasts. The area, known for its wide paths conducive to running and cycling, is a favorite among marathoners seeking the refreshing air and tranquility of La Huasteca Park. Here, I urge fellow adventurers: eschew headphones and immerse yourself in the natural ambiance. The sounds of the wind, wildlife, and even the distant rustle of fellow explorers enhance the experience, not to mention ensuring safety when sharing paths with cyclists, dirt bikers, or vehicles.

Finally, we reached the imposing gate of La Presa Rompe Picos. The sight never ceases to amaze me; the towering walls hold countless stories, etched into the stone by time itself. Each visit reveals new details, adding layers to the narrative of these majestic mountains.

Chapter 3 - Running Beyond the Gate at Presa Rompe Picos

Crossing the gate of presa rompe picos.

Crossing the threshold of the Presa Rompe Picos gate, we ventured into a captivating expanse unlike any other. The first leg of our journey took us through an enchanting field, brimming with wild herbs that whispered under the soft caress of the evening breeze. The air, infused with the earthy scent of the herbs, felt like a natural remedy for the soul.

As we progressed, the trail opened up to reveal a panoramic view that took our breath away. Before us lay a sprawling garden of mountains, each peak standing tall against the horizon. The sunset painted the sky in surreal shades, transforming the scene into a living canvas, with colors so vibrant they seemed from another world.

The sunset at rompe picos

Our adventure led us to the discovery of a new trail. Though less conducive to running, with its uneven terrain and hidden challenges, it offered an unexpected thrill. The rugged path twisted and turned, each step a dance between nature and our determination.

Eventually, we found our way back to the main path, just in time to immerse ourselves in the final act of the day's light show. The sunset, now deeper in hue, spread across the sky, casting long shadows and bathing the landscape in a warm, golden glow.

But the journey did not end as daylight faded; instead, it transitioned into a nocturnal spectacle. As we retraced our steps towards the gate, we were greeted by an aerial ballet of bats, emerging from their hidden roosts to grace the evening sky. Their silent flights added a layer of mystique to our twilight adventure.

Upon reaching the gate of Presa Rompe Picos once more, we were enveloped by a sky now jeweled with stars. The orange remnants of the sunset lingered on the horizon, providing a serene backdrop to the sparkling celestial display above. It was a moment of profound beauty and tranquility, a fitting end to an unforgettable run through nature's splendor.

The Journey Continues

As the stars shone above Presa Rompe Picos, reflecting the infinite possibilities of nature's vast tapestry, our adventure drew to a serene close. Yet, the end of this journey marks the beginning of countless others. Each trail run, every encounter with the wild, is a chapter in the grand book of our explorations, a testament to the beauty and mystery of the natural world.

This adventure, like all others, is not just about the paths traversed or the landscapes unveiled. It's about the stories we live, the moments we capture, and the wisdom we glean from the earth beneath our feet and the sky above our heads. It's about sharing those experiences, inspiring others, and creating a community that values the profound simplicity and intricate complexities of our planet.

I invite you to continue this journey with me beyond the trails and the sunsets. Join our community at Sea Turtle Wisdom, a space dedicated to those who carry the spirit of adventure in their hearts and the love for nature in their souls. Here, we delve deeper into the narratives of the natural world, offering insights, stories, and the shared wisdom of the wanderers of the wild.

But the adventure doesn't stop with words alone. Witness the beauty, the thrill, and the tranquility of our expeditions by subscribing to the Sea Turtle Wisdom YouTube Channel. Here, visuals breathe life into stories, and the landscapes speak for themselves. From the silent whispers of the forests to the roaring chants of the oceans, our videos are a gateway to experiences that words can only begin to describe.

Your subscription not only supports our journey but also connects you to a community that cherishes the environment and seeks to protect the wonders that make our planet uniquely beautiful. Together, we can inspire, learn, and contribute to a world that values and preserves its natural heritage.

Thank you for being a part of this adventure. Let's continue to explore, to dream, and to discover. For every trail leads to knowledge, every horizon promises a new story, and every step brings us closer to the wisdom of the sea turtle.