Maricao State Forest, State forest in western Cordillera Central mountains, Puerto Rico.
Maricao State Forest is a mountain forest in the western Cordillera Central with dense vegetation and marked hiking trails throughout its expanse. The area features observation points with views toward Mayagüez and facilities for exploring the wooded landscape.
The government of Puerto Rico established this forest in 1919 to create the first protected forest areas on the island. This founding marked the beginning of organized forest management and nature protection in Puerto Rico.
The forest is home to bird species found only in Puerto Rico and plants that thrive in these mountain conditions. Local visitors and researchers come here to observe and study these living things in their natural setting.
The forest is accessible via Route PR-120 and features trails with varying levels of difficulty. Visitors should wear sturdy footwear and bring adequate water, as the mountain slopes can be steep.
The forest floor contains special mineral soils that create conditions for rare plants found nowhere else. A rare hawk species that lives only on this island hunts in these woods.
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