Barranca del Cupatitzio National Park, National park in Uruapan, Mexico
The Cupatitzio emerges from underground springs to form a deep ravine filled with waterfalls and streams across 471 hectares of lush forest. Walking paths and fountains occupy about 19 hectares, while the remaining land is kept wild for nature conservation.
The protected area was established in 1938 when the federal government purchased land from the Hurtado family to create a public recreation space. This action transformed the ravine into one of Mexico's early conservation efforts.
The Purépecha name translates to 'river that sings', a reference to the constant murmur you hear throughout the ravine from flowing water and cascades.
The park is walkable with marked trails throughout, though some paths become wet and slippery from water spray. Sturdy footwear is recommended for navigating the damp areas safely.
The Devil's Knee spring marks the exact source of the river in a distinctive three-meter-deep pool surrounded by unusual rock shapes. Few visitors realize they can reach this hidden origin point and observe where the entire ravine begins.
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