​Exploring the Mountains in Mexico: From the Highest Peaks to the Largest Ranges​

When I came to Mexico, I was excited about the beaches and food. I thought I would spend most of my time near the sea, eating tacos and relaxing in the sun. But my love for mountains did not let me stop there too.

So, I started looking to see if Mexico had any mountains worth visiting. And what I found was surprising. Mexico is full of big and beautiful mountains that are perfect for hiking and enjoying nature.

These mountains did not just appear out of nowhere. They were formed a long time ago because of strong movements under the earth.

Mexico lies on something called the Pacific Ring of Fire, where many volcanoes and earthquakes happen. This is also where the famous Sierra Madre mountain ranges were formed. These ranges stretch across the country and shape much of Mexico’s land.

In this article, I’ll take you through some of the tallest mountains in Mexico, the most important mountain ranges, and the best places to visit if you love mountains. It is a side of Mexico many people do not know about. But once you see it, you will not forget it.

Quick Facts About Mountains in Mexico

• Mexico has more than 40 well-known mountain peaks. Three of them reach above 5,000 meters (16,400 feet) and many others stand tall over 4,000 meters.
• Pico de Orizaba, Mexico largest mountain, is also the third-highest peak in North America.
• Some of Mexico’s mountains are volcanoes, and some are still active today.
• The Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt is home to hundreds of volcanoes. It stretches across central Mexico from coast to coast.
• The Sierra Madre Oriental mountain range has deep caves. Some of them are even among the deepest in the world, like the Cave of Swallows in San Luis Potosí.
• Because of the different heights and climates, Mexico mountains support many types of nature. You can enjoy dry cactus-covered hills, thick pine forests, and even snowy peaks.
• One of Mexico’s most powerful telescopes is built on top of Sierra Negra.
• Mountain ranges in Mexico are also home to many indigenous communities. They are living in these areas for generations and still follow old traditions.

Major Mountain Ranges in Mexico

Mexico is a country with many important mountain ranges that shape its land and climate. Three major mountain systems surround much of the country: the Sierra Madre Occidental to the west, the Sierra Madre Oriental to the east, and the Sierra Madre del Sur in the south.

Sierra Madre Occidental Mountain Range

This range runs down the western side of Mexico. It is also called the backbone of the north. The land here is wild and full of canyons, and pine forests. One of the most famous spots in this range is Copper Canyon. It is even deeper than the Grand Canyon in some places. If you love train rides through mountains, this is the place to go.

Sierra Madre Oriental Mountain Range

The Sierra Madre Oriental runs along the east side of Mexico. It starts near the U.S. border and goes all the way down to central Mexico. This mountain range that surrounds Mexico and its eastern edge is full of caves, and waterfalls. It is home to many small towns, and the weather changes a lot

If you are enjoying these mountains in the city center, I would suggest to visit La Condesa. Want to know why? I have crafted a full guide on Why Condesa Mexico City.

Sierra Madre del Sur Mountain Range

Further south, you will find the Sierra Madre del Sur. These mountains are lower than the others but very green. They pass through places like Oaxaca and Guerrero. This region is known for its mix of forests and jungle. Many native communities live in these mountains. You can closely witness how they are living by keeping old traditions alive.

Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt

This range is different. It cuts across central Mexico from coast to coast. It is also called the Eje Volcánico. What makes it special is that it is full of volcanoes. Some of them are still active. This is where you will find the largest mountain in Mexico, Pico de Orizaba, and famous volcanoes like Popocatépetl.

Unique thing about this place is that this region is a wonder of nature. It is shaped by volcanic eruptions over millions of years.

Other Small but Beautiful Ranges

Besides the big ones, there are many smaller mountain areas that are just as stunning. The Chiapas Highlands, near the border with Guatemala, are full of misty forests and old Mayan villages. The Sierra de Juárez in Oaxaca is known for its quiet beauty and strong local traditions.

Highest Peaks and Volcanic Giants

Many of these Big mountains of Mexico are part of the Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt. It is a long line of volcanoes that runs across the center of the country. Some peaks are covered in snow too. Most of them are great for climbing and learning about nature.

Here are the tallest mountains in Mexico:

• Pico de Orizaba – 5,636 meters (18,491 feet)
• Popocatépetl – 5,452 meters (17,883 feet)
• Iztaccíhuatl – 5,426 meters (17,802 feet)
• Nevado de Toluca – 4,680 meters (15,354 feet)
• Sierra Negra – 4,580 meters (15,026 feet)
• La Malinche – 4,461 meters (14,636 feet)
• Nevado de Colima – 4,330 meters (14,206 feet)
• Cofre de Perote – 4,282 meters (14,049 feet)
• Volcán Tacaná – 4,093 meters (13,428 feet)
• Cerro Ajusco – 3,930 meters (12,894 feet)

1: Pico de Orizaba – Highest Peak in Mexico

• Location: Veracruz and Puebla

Pico de Orizaba is not just the highest mountain in Mexico. It is also the third-highest in North America, right after Denali in Alaska and Mount Logan in Canada. Locals call it Citlaltépetl. It means “Star Mountain” in the Nahuatl language.

It is present on the border of Veracruz and Puebla and can be seen from far away on a clear day.

This mountain is actually a dormant volcano, and its cone is still covered in snow and ice. It is the only place in Mexico where you can find a glacier all year round. That is rare for a country with such a hot climate.

Pico de Orizaba is also a popular spot for serious hikers and mountain climbers. Many international climbers visit it because it offers a high-altitude challenge without needing special gear like oxygen masks.

One interesting fact is that the Great Telescope of Millimeter Wavelength, a massive radio telescope, was built near the area. The mountain is also part of the Orizaba National Park, which protects the forests and wildlife around it.

2: Popocatépetl

• Location: Puebla, Mexico State, and Morelos

Popocatépetl is hard to miss. It’s huge and always letting out smoke. Locals call it “El Popo.” It is one of the most famous volcanoes in Mexico. On a clear day, it is visible from the capital too.

This volcano is still alive. It has had many small eruptions. That is why scientists keep a close watch on it. People who live nearby are used to its smoke and sound.

Its name comes from the Nahuatl language. It means “Smoking Mountain.” The name matches what it does. Smoke rises from the top all the time.

Popocatépetl is also part of an old love story. It is said to stand beside the mountain Iztaccíhuatl, like a warrior watching over his sleeping princess.

Because it is active, climbing is not allowed. But there is a national park around it. You can go hiking, take photos, and enjoy the views from a safe distance.

3: Iztaccíhuatl

• Location: Border of Puebla and Mexico State

Iztaccíhuatl is one of the tallest mountains in Mexico. It is also called “The Sleeping Woman.” When you look at the shape of the mountain, it looks like a woman lying on her back. That is where the name comes from.

This mountain is next to Popocatépetl. The two are often linked in old Aztec stories. People say Popocatépetl was a warrior who stood guard over Iztaccíhuatl, the princess he loved. Many locals still tell this story today.

Iztaccíhuatl is not active like Popocatépetl. That means people can hike it. Many hikers and climbers come here every year. The climb is tough, but the views are beautiful. There is often snow on top, and you can see many other peaks from the trail.

The area around the mountain is part of a protected national park. You can also spot birds, pine trees, and wildflowers along the way. The cool air and quiet nature make it a great place to explore.

4: Nevado de Toluca

• Location: State of Mexico

Nevado de Toluca is a beautiful volcano, but it is not active anymore. It is the fourth-highest mountain in Mexico and is also known as Xinantécatl, a name that comes from the old Nahuatl language.

What makes this mountain special is the two crater lakes at the top. These are called Lake of the Sun and Lake of the Moon:

• Larger green Lago del Sol (Sun Lake)
• Smaller Lago de la Luna (Moon Lake)

 You can hike or drive close to the crater and see both lakes. It is just 48 km (29 miles) road that leads directly to carter. It feels like stepping into another world.

The crater has a flat base with steep rocky walls that rise all around it. Some parts of the rim climb up to 500 meters. It creates a huge natural bowl.

For those who love tough hikes, there is a trail that takes you around the rim. It is long and can take 7 to 8 hours to finish. The highest point is called Pico del Fraile, and reaching it feels like a big achievement.

Even though the hike is hard, it is worth it. You will see wide views of the valley, other volcanoes, and forests below. In winter, snow covers the top that makes the place look magical. The mountain is also easy to get to, which makes it a great choice for day trips.

Related: Where to Stay in Tulum

5: Sierra Negra – 4,580 meters (15,030 feet)

• Location: Puebla

Sierra Negra is one of the highest mountains in Mexico mountains. It is present close to the famous Pico de Orizaba. It may not be as well-known as its neighbor, but it is full of surprises.

What makes Sierra Negra really special is that it is home to the world’s largest single-aperture telescope which is called, the Large Millimeter Telescope (LMT). Scientists from around the world use it to study space.

Another good point is, it is easier to access than most of the other volcanoes. Sierra Negra is easier to hike. The road goes almost all the way to the top, so people can reach high altitudes without much climbing. This makes it a great choice for beginners or those who want mountain views without a tough trail.

The views from the top are breathtaking. On clear days, you can see Pico de Orizaba right in front of you. The mountain is also part of a protected area, so the air feels clean and the land is filled with wild plants and birds.

6: La Malinche

• Location: Tlaxcala and Puebla

La Malinche is the tallest mountain in the state of Tlaxcala. It is also one of the top six highest peaks in Mexico. Many people also know it as Matlalcueitl. It means “Lady of the Blue Skirt.” This name comes from an old rain goddess in local tradition.

Later, the mountain became known as La Malinche. It is a name linked to the woman who helped Spanish explorer Hernán Cortés during the conquest of the Aztecs.

La Malinche is part of the Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt. It is an extinct volcano and now a national park. People love to come here to hike and enjoy the clean mountain air. Because it is not as difficult as some of the taller peaks, it is often the first choice for hikers who are preparing for bigger climbs like Pico de Orizaba.

The most popular trail begins at Centro Vacacional IMSS Malintzi. It is a campsite and resort area with cabins and basic services. The round-trip hike is about 12.2 kilometers (7.6 miles). It usually takes 7 to 8 hours to go up and down.

The hike starts through forests and slowly opens to bare slopes and rocky ridges. If the sky is clear, you can see Pico de Orizaba and even Popocatépetl from the summit.

There is also a quieter trail that begins in the town of San Juan Ixtenco. It is less used but gives you stunning views of the surrounding volcanoes and valleys.

7: Nevado de Colima

• Location: Jalisco and Colima border

Nevado de Colima is one of the most beautiful mountains in western Mexico. It sits next to the active Volcán de Colima which is also known as the Fire Volcano. But it is not like its neighbors.

Nevado de Colima is a quiet, inactive volcano. Its snowy peak and cool forest trails attract hikers, campers, and nature lovers all year round.

This mountain is part of Nevado de Colima National Park. It protects the forests, animals, and rivers in the area. Visitors often start their adventure from a place called La Joya. It is a common entry point for hiking.

The park also offers a popular loop trail around the mountain. It is ideal for those who do not want to reach the top but still want to enjoy the natural beauty.

Several trails are marked with different colors, but fog and clouds can appear quickly. So, it is easy to take the wrong turn if you are not careful. That is why a guide is often recommended, especially if it’s your first visit.

Related: Roma Norte, Mexico City Travel Guide

8: Ajusco – 3,930 meters (12,894 feet)

• Location: Mexico City, south side

Ajusco is one of the tallest mountains near Mexico City. It is also a volcano, though it is not active anymore. Many locals visit it for weekend hikes or day trips. It is part of the Cumbres del Ajusco National Park, which protects its forests and wildlife.

The area is full of pine and fir trees. In winter, the top sometimes gets snow. It is rare for Mexico City. Hiking to the summit is not very hard and that makes it popular for beginners. The trails are marked, and the most used one starts from La Cima. It takes around 3 to 4 hours to reach the top, depending on your speed.

From the peak, you can see the city below and sometimes even other volcanoes like Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl. The air is fresh and cool, a big change from the heat and traffic of the city. You can also spot wild animals like hawks, rabbits, and sometimes even coyotes.

Related: Do not only enjoy mountain beauty, have some local Mexican food on the way. Do you know what to try? Check my guide on the best Mexico food.

Mountain Towns Worth Visiting (and Eating In)

I thought climbing mountains would be the highlight of this trip. But then I reached the towns hiding beneath them. That is where the real surprise waited. Each one felt like a secret. Most of the towns were quiet with local vibes. 

Here are some of the best mountain towns in Mexico that I explored for a short period of time. Here is what I did there. 

Tlachichuca: It was my first stop before heading to Mexico largest mountain, Pico de Orizaba. The streets were still when I arrived. No big signs or tourist buzz. There was just the scent of fresh bread drifting out of a tiny panadería. A local man selling fruit pointed to the snowy peak and said, “That one watches over us.” I bought a guava and kept walking.

Amecameca: The volcano felt closer here. Popocatépetl stood in the distance. It was calm but powerful. I followed the locals to a small eatery where they served warm barbacoa wrapped in fresh tortillas. There was no menu, just what they had that day. And that was enough.

Malinalco: A beautiful town tucked into the green hills. It looked like something out of a storybook. I found trout on the table, caught just hours before, and a quiet café run by a mother and son. They had a wall of handwoven fabrics and a view of the mountains that made lunch stretch into hours.

These places were not built for show or tourists. They just exist, like the peaks above them. They were old and full of quiet charm. Above all, these places are the safest places in Mexico.

Fun Facts About Mexico’s Mountains

1. You can ski on a volcano in Mexico.
   Nevado de Toluca is one of the few volcanoes in the world where you will find a ski lift. It is not always snowy, but when conditions are right, locals head there with skis and snowboards. It is just a few hours from Mexico City, which makes it a popular winter day trip.
2. Altitude changes the way food grows—and tastes.
   Corn, cacao, and even coffee taste different when grown in the mountains. The cooler air slows down ripening, which often leads to richer flavors. That is why high-altitude cacao from Chiapas and Oaxaca is prized by chocolate makers.
3. Mountains were once seen as gods.
   In pre-Hispanic times, people believed that mountains were sacred. Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl were not just volcanoes but lovers. It was believed that God turned them into stone. Many Indigenous groups still make offerings to the peaks, especially during planting season.
4. Some peaks hold ancient secrets.
   Another unique thing about mountains in Mexico is that you will find ancient temples carved into cliffs. Like the one in Malinalco. These places were in use by Aztec warriors and priests for rituals. It is only reachable by steep trails.
5. You can stand in a crater.
   Nevado de Toluca has a massive crater with two lakes inside. It feels like standing on another planet. And yes, you can hike right into it.

So, Which Peak is Calling You?

Not every trip needs a beach towel and flip-flops. Sometimes, all you need is a good pair of boots and a trail that disappears into the clouds.

Mountains in Mexico are not just tall, but are full of stories. Some smoke, sleep, and hide sacred lakes or craters inside. Each one feels different when you stand at its base, staring up.

So… which one caught your eye and which mountain you are planning to visit? Share me in comments. Want to enjoy more in Mexico? Sign up and I will send you detailed guides based on my personal experience straight to your inbox.

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