Ruta de la Sal Colima Volcanic Circuit
Ancient salt route through active volcanic hellscape
This pre-Columbian salt trading route winds through the volatile landscape between Volcán de Fuego and Nevado de Colima, where Nahua traders once hauled precious salt from coastal lagoons to highland markets. The 47-kilometer circuit follows remnants of cobblestone paths and mule trails carved into hardened lava flows, with the most challenging section being the Barranca de Beltrán crossing where sharp volcanic rock can shred tires in minutes. At Paso de la Muerte, drivers navigate between steaming fumaroles while Volcán de Fuego looms overhead, occasionally belching ash clouds that coat windshields in minutes.
This is expert-level terrain requiring full skid plates, heavy-duty tires, and recovery gear. The volcanic rock sections demand precise tire placement and slow speeds, while altitude changes from 1,200 to 3,400 meters test both driver and vehicle. Best attempted during dry season (November-April) when ash deposits are firm, though even then, sudden weather changes can turn the route treacherous. Carry extra water, spare tires, and emergency supplies — cellular service is nonexistent and the nearest fuel is hours away. Those who complete it earn bragging rights and some of Mexico’s most dramatic volcanic scenery.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Expert |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Technical 4x4 |
| Surface | Rock |
| Features | High Altitude, Historic, Remote, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 29 mi / 47 km |
| Duration | 1-2 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 11155 ft |
| Best season | November-April |
| Minimum vehicle | Modified 4WD with skid plates |
| Nearest town | Comala, Colima |
| Land manager | Parque Nacional Nevado de Colima |
| Permit required | Yes |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | No |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Tacoma or 4Runner run this trail?
No. This trail demands a modified 4WD with high clearance, skid plates, and aired-down aggressive tires minimum. Lava rock sections will destroy an unprotected undercarriage, and the steep volcanic terrain at altitude punishes anything less than a purpose-built rig.
Is the trail open year-round?
November through April is the reliable window. The rainy season (May–October) turns portions into a muddy mess and volcanic ash deposits become dangerously slick. Snow is possible at the 11,000+ ft summit sections during winter cold snaps, so check conditions before committing.
Do you need a permit to run this trail?
Yes. The route passes through Parque Nacional Nevado de Colima and a permit is required. Coordinate with the park administration in advance — enforcement and access points can shift depending on volcanic activity alerts issued by CENAPRED.
What's the hardest section and what should I actually expect?
The upper lava rock fields approaching the volcanic circuit are the crux — jagged, irregular basalt with zero line forgiveness and exposure on both sides. Expect slow going, frequent spotting, and real risk of a puncture or worse if you push speed. This isn't hard because of elevation alone; the rock will end your day fast.
How far is the nearest gas station and is there water on the trail?
Comala is your last reliable fuel stop before the trailhead — fill completely, because 29 miles of technical terrain burns fuel hard, especially at altitude with low gearing. There's no reliable potable water on the route, so carry everything you need for the full 1-2 day run.
Trail track
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