Two Countries, One Range
The Sierra Madres extend from the U.S. border into Mexico. The mountains are comprised of three sub-ranges: the Sierra Madre Occidental, the Sierra Madre Oriental and the Sierra Madre del Sur.
Big Mountains
Reaching a height of 18,700 feet in Citlaltépetl, the Sierra Madres include some of the highest peaks in the northern hemisphere. Average elevations of the range are around 5,000 feet in the northern portion and around 10,000 feet in the south.
Volcanoes
Cordillera de Anáhuac is a region of the range that has volcanic remains and activity. The tallest peak, Citlaltépetl, is found in this section and is a volcanic remnant.
Hiking
The opportunities for hiking in the Sierra Madres are vast and varied. There are trails from Jalisco's capital, Guadalajara, to the beaches on the coast. Hiking trails go through systems from chaparral to sub-alpine and snow-covered peaks of the alpine.
Flora and Fauna
Depending on elevation, forests comprised of pines, firs and oaks can be found in the Sierra Madres. Black bears are plentiful, and wildcats such as jaguars and mountain lions are scarce but still in existence.
About The Author
A former Alaskan of 20 years, Eric Coufal now resides in California. He has written for publications including "Outside" and "Backpacker" and has written a book on life in small-town Alaska, "North by Southeast." Coufal attended Syracuse University and was a professional mountain guide and backcountry expedition leader for 18 years. He worked in Russia, Iceland, Greece, Turkey, Belize and much of Alaska.
