A neighbor of mine is a member of Warmshowers, an international organization that connects long-distance cyclists with hosts who offer a free place to rest and clean up. The other day, he invited me to meet two young men from Cork, Ireland, who were biking from Vancouver, Canada, to Ushuaia, Argentina—a journey of 12,641 kilometers.

Some time ago, I stumbled upon a country road that might just be the most beautiful drive in the greater Guadalajara area. This 25-kilometer stretch north of the city connects Highways 23 and 54, offering stunning views of the Huaxtla Canyon. Along the way, it opens up a world of hiking, biking, picnicking, and even canyoneering opportunities.

If you’re looking for an exciting hiking destination near Guadalajara, look no further than Tequila—specifically, Tequila Volcano!

All five of Mexico’s major ecosystems converge in the state of Jalisco.  And while the beaches, volcanoes and forests may get most of the attention, the semi-arid highlands of Los Altos offer their own quiet drama—sun-drenched ruins, mysterious rock art and sweeping views that stretch for miles.

It seems the world is being smothered by microplastics. Our oceans are full of them. Fish are ingesting them. Our clothes are shedding them. And here in Mexico, the ubiquitous leaf blower stirs up clouds of plastic particles for us to breathe. A little of it enters our bodies every time we eat or drink from plastic containers.

Most trails in Mexico are undeveloped. They were made—perhaps many centuries ago—by ordinary people trying to get from one place to another.