Mount Britton Trail and Tower – El Yunque

Mount Britton Trail and Tower is a demanding, but rewarding hike. It is located at the highest access point just a short distance off to the right of where PR 191 dead ends. Take a look at our map below for a more detailed understanding of where it is. The map and pictures should also give you a better view of where to park as well as the route the hiking trail takes.

Parking for the Mount Britton Trail is congested with space only available along the sides of the road. As you pack up your car and get ready to hike make sure to double check that you brought some water and depending on the conditions, rain gear. If you are extremely lucky and it is clear at this high elevation get ready for the most amazing view of your life when you reach Mount Britton Tower.

The trail is paved and well maintained, but that does not necessarily mean it is easy. The trail starts off weaving back and forth while sharply ascending through the Sierra Palm forest towards the peak. The Palm Trees along the route are awesome, with interesting root bases. Along the trail there are a few shelters in case the weather changes on you. As you start to get close, the narrow concrete walkway will connect to the El Yunque National Forest Service Road. Once you are on the service road pay close attention for the Mt. Britton Trail Sign and Wildlife Viewing Area Sign. You will take a sharp right at those signs and head up a straight walkway to the tower. Again, if the weather is clear you are in for a treat and hopefully remembered a camera to get some great pictures from the top of Mt. Britton Tower.

The Tower, Trail and area was named afters Nathaniel Britton, a botanist that worked this region in the 1920s. The tower itself was constructed in the 1930s. Today it is a great hiking destination for those willing to put forth the effort to reach the peak.

*A note from the National Forest Website is that you should close windows, lock doors, and place valuables in your trunk.

 

GPS Coordinates : 18.298484, -65.790982

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