About the Hike: The renowned painter, Rodolfo Morales, restored and decorated a number of churches in the area, including the one in Santa Ana Zegache, which we will visit on this hike. We arrive in San Martin Tilcajete around 10AM where we will stop in at the workshop of Jacobo and Maria Angeles to see the young people get painted and decorated for the Mardi Gras festival, and we'll then watch the 11AM parade through town. You will have time to wander through town, where you will find hundreds of fantastically imagined and brightly painted wooden figures for sale in art shops and markets. The carving of alebrijes is a cottage industry here, and supports many families (and not a few towns). Older clothes should be worn as there is a chance of getting paint or motor oil on you during the parade.

Driving Time: 60 minutes

Type/Difficulty: Countryside / Easy - It is imperative that hikers bring a hat or umbrella and water.

Hike Type: Point to Point

Starting elevation: 4826 feet/ 1470 meters

Distance: 3.3 miles / 5.3 KM

Elevation Change: +101 ft / -85 ft

Additional Fee: Admission/ Guide n/a

Meal: Street vendor fare or restaurant lunch in San Martin Tilcajete

Time frame: 8:00 - 4:00 pm.

Meeting Point: Calle de Los Libres, between Zarate and San Martin, directly behind the Grand Fiesta Americana Hotel. See map on the hiking introduction page.