Across the Jorullo: Ride, Fly, and Hang High Above Puerto Vallarta
Ride the Sierra Madre, fly the Cuale, and cross the world’s longest vehicular suspension bridge.
Dust hangs in the morning light as the Sierra Madre wakes. The trail ahead narrows and leans into the hills, daring you to open the throttle. Somewhere down below, the Río Cuale hurries west, tugging clouds and birds along its corridor as if urging the day to get on with it. Your ATV growls, the forest answers with cicadas, and the mountains—never in a rush—lift you ridge by ridge toward a ribbon of steel that seems to float in the sky. This is the Jorullo run, where a single morning delivers three kinds of altitude: the grit of off-road, the clean flight of a zipline, and the airy crossing of the longest vehicular suspension bridge in the world.
Trail Wisdom
Dress for dust or mud
In the dry months, bring a bandana and sunglasses; in the rainy season, expect mud and wear quick-dry layers you don’t mind getting dirty.
Secure small items
Use a zippered pocket or small chest pouch for phone and ID—loose items can bounce out on the ATV or during zipline landings.
Hydrate early
Drink water before you ride and carry a bottle; humidity and exertion sneak up fast in the jungle canyons.
Mind the bridge etiquette
Keep steady spacing and smooth throttle on the Jorullo Bridge to minimize sway and maintain safe control.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •El Salto swimming hole below the falls—cool, clear water after the ride
- •Mirador viewpoints along the ridge for wide-angle shots of the Cuale canyon
Wildlife
Coatis, Green iguanas
Conservation Note
Stick to designated routes to limit erosion, keep speeds moderate near the river, and pack out all trash—this watershed feeds Puerto Vallarta.
Ejido El Jorullo manages this terrain and partnered with local guides to build the Jorullo Bridge in the 2010s, creating new livelihoods while preserving communal land.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Mild temps, Clear views
Challenges: Dusty trails, Strong sun
Spring brings dry conditions and dependable skies—great for stable ATV handling and crisp bridge views.
summer
Best for: Lush greenery, Refreshing swims at El Salto
Challenges: Heat and humidity, Afternoon thunderstorms, Muddy ruts
Expect sticky heat and intermittent storms; trails can be slick but the jungle is electric green and the river is full.
fall
Best for: Shoulder-season quiet, Waterfalls at good flow
Challenges: Lingering rains in early fall, Variable trail conditions
Early fall stays wet and muddy, shifting to drier, calmer days by November with cooler mornings.
winter
Best for: Best overall conditions, Low humidity
Challenges: Cooler mornings, Popular dates sell out
Cool, dry, and stable—prime time for clean rides, clear zipline air, and comfortable temps.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Closed-toe trail shoesEssential
Grippy soles help on dusty steps, slick ramps, and uneven ground at platforms and river stops.
Lightweight long-sleeve sun shirtEssential
Protects from sun and brush while staying breathable during the ride and on platforms.
Bandana or buff
Useful for filtering dust on dry days or managing sweat and humidity in summer.
Action camera with lanyard mount
A tethered mount keeps your camera secure while crossing the bridge or flying the zipline.
Common Questions
Do I need a driver’s license to operate the ATV?
Yes—drivers typically must be 18+ with a valid license. Passengers can be younger depending on the operator’s policy.
How high and long is the Jorullo Bridge?
The bridge spans approximately 470 meters (1,542 feet) and hangs about 150 meters (492 feet) above the Río Cuale.
Is the zipline suitable for first-timers?
Yes. Guides provide a safety briefing, fit your harness, and manage braking systems; you just need to follow instructions and be comfortable with heights.
What should I wear?
Closed-toe shoes, breathable layers you don’t mind getting dusty or muddy, and sunscreen. Avoid loose scarves or dangling jewelry.
Can I bring my phone or camera?
Yes, but secure it with a wrist strap or lanyard; some lines may restrict handheld devices on the cable for safety.
Will I get dirty or wet?
Count on dust in the dry season and mud during summer rains; optional swims at El Salto can get you wet, so bring a towel or change of clothes.
What to Pack
Closed-toe shoes with tread for platforms and uneven terrain; breathable long-sleeve sun layer to protect from sun and brush; bandana or buff to filter dust on dry days; compact towel and a spare shirt if you plan to swim at El Salto.
Did You Know
The Río Cuale originates in the Sierra Madre and flows through Puerto Vallarta, splitting Centro from the Zona Romántica before reaching the Bay of Banderas.
Quick Travel Tips
Confirm driver age and license requirements before booking; schedule early morning slots for cooler temps and clearer views; bring cash for souvenirs, snacks, or lockers where cards may not be accepted; leave jewelry and loose accessories at your hotel to streamline gearing up.
Local Flavor
Post-ride, refuel in Puerto Vallarta’s Zona Romántica: try birria tacos at a family-run cocina, then a cold craft beer at a local taproom near the Río Cuale island. If you have time, wander the market stalls—fresh mango with chile and lime makes a perfect recovery snack.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: PVR (Lic. Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International). Tour base: Canopy River area in Ejido El Jorullo, ~30–45 minutes from Puerto Vallarta’s center. Cell service: Spotty to none in the canyon—download confirmations offline. Permits: Included with guided tour; drivers need a valid license; weight/age limits apply to ziplines.
Sustainability Note
Riding on designated routes helps prevent erosion and protects riparian vegetation along the Río Cuale. Bring a reusable water bottle and avoid single-use plastics—everything you pack in must pack out.
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