How to get by car to Cerro de Punta in the Cordillera Central?
Cerro de Punta is a mountain peak at an elevation of 1.331m (4,366ft) above the sea level, located on the border between the municipalities of Jayuya and Ponce in Puerto Rico.
Is the road to Cerro de Punta in the Cordillera Central challenging?
Tucked away in the Cordillera Central, in the western portion of the Reserva Forestal Toro Negro, the road to the summit, also known as Cerro Punta or Cerro Puntita, is genuinely challenging. It’s a steep, one-lane road in really bad shape, with drop-offs on the side and full of potholes and loose gravel. It’s definitely not a “Sunday drive.” There are also no pull-outs, so if you happen to encounter a vehicle coming the other way, you would be forced to back down an extremely steep grade around blind corners.
How long is the road to Cerro de Punta?
Set high in the mountainous central region of the country, the road that steeply ascends to the summit, the highest peak in Puerto Rico, features a slippery slope both ascending and descending. It's mostly concrete, and a 4x4 vehicle is required. Use your discretion when deciding to drive it. If it is rainy, it could be quite treacherous. Starting from Highway 143 (the Ruta Panorámica), the road to the summit is 1.0 km (0.62 miles) long. Over this distance, the elevation gain is 167 meters, and the average gradient is 16.7%.
Is the drive to Cerro de Punta in the Cordillera Central worth it?
The peak is crowned with numerous antennas, offering what is reputed to be the most stunning panoramic view across Puerto Rico. In optimal weather conditions, one can behold virtually the entire island, stretching as far as San Juan, a distance exceeding 75 miles (120 km). Adjacent to the summit, there are several towers dedicated to radio and television transmission and re-transmission. An observation platform is also situated at the peak for visitors to enjoy the breathtaking scenery.
Pic&video: Edgar Ortiz