Chato Volcano Trailhead — Attraction in La Fortuna

There's technically two trails here at this location. one that loops around the property and goes through the woods and another one that goes up and back into the country's park past the do not enter sign.

This particular path that I took is good all the way to the lake at $15 for entry it seems a bit steep. however, you get access to a swimming pool, hot tub and shower, and Wi-Fi so it'll be good to hangout afterwards or if this is the last hike before you leave the area? Youu could take the hike early on relaxing the pool. take a shower and be cleaned up for your travels to your next destination.

The hike to the lake was absolutely hands down the best hike in La Fortuna!!! I like to hike with a challenge and to go off on trials that not many people are on the entire time I was by myself and it was a challenge from the beginning. the assent was grueling and muddy towards the top, but not impossible. just make sure you have plenty of water. as others have said the trail isn't necessarily groomed or paved like many of the state parks, but that's what makes this one even better you actually have to hike on this trail. There are a few areas where the grass is a little high, but you can make do if you walk in vehicle tracks as you make your way up.

Once past the do not enter sign is what the real challenge begins! If you think you are going to stay clean think again you will have to just your hands! Once near the top you have to actually climb down using ropes provide!

Turning around the downward portion is much easier just use your upper body for support and...

tldr: awesome strenuous hike, $15 to lodge is a complete rip off (but mandatory), continue past the “end,” decent to lake is steep and slippery but 10/10 worth it.

Great, adventurous hike! We set off in the pouring rain, and while there wasn’t much of a view, the lake at the end was worth it. Apparently you used to be able to circumvent the lodge and hike this trail for free—now they’ve hired a guard who stands at the hidden trailhead and makes sure you’ve paid.

$15 to the lodge for an INCREDIBLY STRENUOUS AND UNMAINTAINED trail seems absolutely preposterous. They can charge you a fee since the lodge technically owns the first 3rd or so of the hike. Complete rip off.

The hike continues past the “end” of the observation hike run by the hotel. Keep going. The trail is steep and muddy but a total blast/moderate thrill for the experienced hiker. Ropes guide your decent into the crater, and the lake at the bottom is stunning.

This hike is steep and challenging. In the rain it is slippery and you will get...

The Chato Volcano hike was an incredibly strenuous but ultimately rewarding experience. The trail was steep and challenging, pushing me to my physical limits. As I climbed higher, I felt a sense of primal connection with the environment, moving through the dense vegetation and navigating the rocky terrain. It was as if I was shedding the constraints of civilization and tapping into a more instinctive, animalistic way of being. Reaching the summit and gazing upon the emerald green crater lake was breathtaking. The sense of accomplishment was immense, and I felt a profound sense of peace and tranquility amidst the rugged beauty of the volcano. The hike was a true test of my endurance and a reminder of the power and...