The park occupies a volcanic plateau that was historically used for agriculture before being converted into a recreational reserve.
It contains a dedicated downhill mountain biking circuit that frequently hosts local competitive events.
The park's altitude reaches over 3,000 meters above sea level, contributing to significant temperature drops in the evenings.
It is managed by the Empresa Pública Metropolitana de Movilidad y Obras Públicas (EPMMOP), which maintains the park's forestry and trail integrity.
Parque Metropolitano del Sur is a high-altitude urban park located on the southern outskirts of Quito, Ecuador. It spans approximately 750 hectares of rugged Andean terrain. The park is renowned for its network of trails designed specifically for mountain biking and trail running. Visitors can access multiple viewpoints that offer panoramas of the Machángara River valley and the surrounding volcanoes, including Cotopaxi and Antisana. The landscape is characterized by native vegetation and reforestation zones intended to stabilize the soil on these steep hillsides. It serves as an ecological corridor for local flora and fauna within the urban environment.
The highest northern ridge viewpoint provides an unobstructed 360-degree vista of Quito's southern skyline and the distant volcano peaks.
Bring layers, as the high-altitude sun is intense, but wind and temperature can change rapidly.
Stick to marked trails to avoid getting lost in the vast, hilly terrain.
Carry plenty of water and hydration as there are limited commercial facilities within the park boundaries.
Do not wander off-trail, as the steep canyons and loose volcanic soil can create hazardous footing.
Respect the 'leave no trace' principle, as it is a natural protected space. Keep dogs on a leash and do not disturb the local wildlife.
