HIKE EL IMPOSIBLE NATIONAL PARK

Tour overview

Actual walking time: ~ 6h
Distance: ~ 20 Km
Ascent – Descent: 779 – 756 m / 2555 – 2480 ft
Elevation at start: 244 m / 800 ft
Top elevation: 1000 m / 3280 ft
See more details here

Welcome to El Imposible National Park, the largest and most diverse protected area in El Salvador. This incredible park is teeming with life, housing thousands of species, including unique flora, migratory birds, and serving as the source of eight rivers that sustain the vibrant mangroves below.

Let’s take a step back in time and hear a captivating story from the early 20th century. Picture this: Sacks filled with green coffee beans were transported on the backs of mules from the Northern farms to the port of Acajutla on the Pacific. However, there was a daunting gorge nestled between two steep hills that interrupted their journey. To overcome this obstacle, the porters ingeniously constructed bridges using trees, allowing the mules to cross. Unfortunately, accidents were common, with both animals and people occasionally slipping and falling into the depths below. This treacherous crossing became known as “Paso El Imposible” (or “the impossible crossing”…) until, in May 1968, a masonry bridge was finally built, forever marking the end of the impossible.
Today, the old mule path offers an extraordinary off-the-beaten-track hiking experience through the tropical forest, alongside fresh water streams, and with stunning miradores (viewpoints) that overlook the rugged terrain. Our hike begins at the official park access on the outskirts of the San Francisco Menéndez district, situated at an elevation of 245 meters above sea level. Throughout our 20-kilometer round trip, we’ll reach a top elevation of nearly 1000 meters. Get ready for an unforgettable journey of discovery!

The environment surrounding us is characterized by a humid submontane and sub-tropical premontane forest, showcasing the beauty of nature at its finest. The terrain is rugged, with dramatic drops and numerous rivers flowing through the gorges. As we traverse the trail, you’ll find ample shade provided by the lush vegetation. Be prepared for some steep sections as we descend and ascend, adding an exciting challenge to our adventure.

To make your experience even more tailored to your preferences, we offer mix-and-match options. If you’re looking for a shorter but steep hike, you can choose the El Mulo and Madrecacao route, which will take you to Los Enganches, covering a distance of 6.6 kilometers (4.1 miles).

Are you ready to embark on this incredible journey? Let’s explore El Imposible National Park together, immersing ourselves in the beauty of nature, rich history, and breathtaking vistas. Lace up your hiking boots, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready to make unforgettable memories in this remarkable natural treasure.