Barranca del Cupatitzio National Park covers a deep river gorge immediately adjacent to the city of Uruapan in western Michoacán. The Cupatitzio river rushes through a canyon of dense tropical vegetation — orchids, tree ferns, and flowering plants — fed by springs that emerge from the volcanic rock with remarkable force. The park is compact (less than 1,000 hectares) but extraordinarily lush, a pocket of cloud forest and waterfalls that feels far removed from the volcanic landscapes nearby.
The main trail follows the river through the gorge, passing a series of waterfalls and swimming holes, with the most impressive cascade — the Rodilla del Diablo (Devil's Knee) — about halfway along. The walk through the park takes 2–3 hours at a relaxed pace. Entry is inexpensive; the park is well-maintained and very popular with Uruapan residents on weekends.