| Some theorize this out-of-place ecosystem
is the remnant of a volcanic island that long ago
collided
with the mainland. Encompassing a spectacular range
of rolling hills, peaks and gorges formed from some
of the oldest rocks in Central American, the Reserve
covers nearly 300 square miles of unpaved roads and
nature trails. The karst limestone terrain is especially
suited for Hiking, Biking, Horseback-Riding and Caves.
RIO ON POOLS is
a continuous series of pools formed by large granite
boulders. Many of the pools are connected by small
waterfalls. The smooth surface of the boulders make
natural water slides and a great place for a swim or
a hike.
RIO FRIO CAVE is
located less than a mile from the Pine Forest Headquarters
in Augustine. Stepping-stones lead inside the
most easily accessible of Belize's river caves.
Everything is big in this cave! The two 65-foot arched
entryways
leave you in awe. Huge stalactites hang from the massive
cathedral-like vault, which is part of a cave system
the Maya used to bury their dead. Room size
boulders are strewn throughout the cave and a
stream flows through, forming pools with cascading
falls.
Openings at both
ends make flashlights unnecessary for viewing the
cave's formations during daylight hours. There
is a beach area with a foot bridge for crossing the
stream and getting to the other side, which leads to
the exit opening.
It is a quarter mile through
to
the other side, another equally impressive opening.
(Do bring a flashlight to watch your footing as you
walk through to the other end and to explore other
caves in the area). At the exit opening, look for
a well-maintained nature trail, one of which leads
to a nearby cave, Cuevas Gemelas. A second trail leads
back to the parking lot.
Laughing Jaw and
several other caves are also
located nearby. The trails are marked; and you can
explore them on your own, or with your guide.
HIDDEN VALLEY FALLS ,
also known as Thousand-Foot Falls, is a routine stop
on many tours. It is believed to be the highest waterfall
in Central America and is actually over 1,500 ft.
to
the bottom. A viewing platform overlooks the falls.
There is a short scenic trail around the escarpment
for taking in the valley view.
BIG ROC FALLS is
somewhat off the beaten path. You'll need a guide
or
good directions. Here you can contemplate nature, hike
downstream or go swimming at the falls.
Note: Even with its recent bout with the
Southern Pine Beetle, the attractions of Mountain Pine
Ridge are still very beautiful and a lot of fun to
visit.
Mountain Pine Ridge - Day
Tours
Include Rio Frio Cave, Rio On Pool, 1,000
Foot Falls and Big
Rock Falls. Other tour options include a visit to nearby Barton
Creek Cave.
Mountain biking
and horseback riding are great ways to explore hard-to-reach areas. The road
beyond the Mountain Pine Ridge Reserve continues
south and on to Caracol,
located in the Chiquibul Forest Reserve. Caracol is the
largest Maya Archeological site in Belize.
Along the Way .... |
