El Yunque National Forest

Parks & Nature · Río Grande, Puerto Rico

The only tropical rainforest in the U.S. national forest system, draped over the Luquillo mountains in the island's northeast. Waterfalls such as La Coca and Juan Diego tumble beside the main forest road, and trails climb through dripping greenery to stone lookout towers with views to the coast. The El Portal visitor centre introduces the forest's ecology before you head up PR-191. Mornings are best, since parking at the popular trailheads fills early.