Parque del Este, Urban park in San Rafael district, Costa Rica
Parque del Este is a large urban park covering about 24 hectares of wooded land, making it the third largest in the San Jose metropolitan area. The grounds include basketball courts, soccer fields, and several trails that wind through hilly terrain.
The land was originally a coffee processing center called Beneficio Escalante during the 1970s before being converted into a public park in the early 1980s. This shift from industrial use to green space reflected changing needs in the growing metropolitan area.
Children play in miniature houses scattered throughout the grounds, and families gather on weekends to enjoy outdoor time together. These spaces have become part of how local residents spend their free time and connect with neighbors.
The park is best explored on foot using the various trails available, which range in difficulty. Wear comfortable hiking shoes and plan for a moderate pace to explore the hilly landscape.
The park sits at 1,350 meters (4,429 feet) above sea level, creating a cooler climate than lower parts of the city. Its location along the Torres River basin and its mix of native and non-native trees create a distinct natural setting.
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