About the Hike:  Santo Domingo Tomaltepec is a very ancient agricultural village located on the north side of the Tlacolula valley. From time immemorial the native population has grown corn, beans and fruit there, as they do still today. There is a dependable supply of fresh water that flows in a stream from a nearby mountain valley, and is used to irrigate local crops. Two dams upstream from the village catch and store water for the dry season. The upper reservoir is the larger and more picturesque of the two, and is popular with local fishermen. Our hike will start from the upper lake and proceed out and back along a dirt road, which gradually withers to a narrow footpath going higher into the mountain valley. As we progress, it will be necessary to ford the stream that feeds the reservoirs. Because the creek winds back and forth, the trail crosses it several times going in each direction. Consider bringing flip-flops to ford the stream and a walking stick. After the hike we will go to Tule to admire the gigantic and ancient cedar tree in the churchyard and then dine at any of several restaurants or food stands.

Type/Rating: Countryside / Easy to Moderate

Distance: 10 km.

Elevation change: + 81 m/ 69 m.

Additional fee: Entrance fee up to $100 pesos

Meal: Dine at any of several restaurants or food vendors in Tule

Time Frame: 8:00 am - 1:30 pm. (ending time is approximate)

Meeting & Return Point: Calle de Los Libres, between Zarate and San Martin, directly behind the Gran Fiesta Americana Hotel. See map on the hiking introduction page