The Parque Nacional Barranca del Cupatitzio sits at the western edge of Uruapan's city centre and is extraordinary by any standard, let alone for an urban park. The Cupatitzio River emerges from underground springs here, surfacing through a tumble of mossy volcanic rock amid dense tropical vegetation — tree ferns, orchids, and palms — that feels almost absurdly lush given that you can walk here from the main plaza.
Paths wind through the park alongside the river, passing cascades, pools, and viewpoints into the gorge. There is also a working trout farm that has operated in the park since colonial times and still produces fish for local restaurants. Entry costs are minimal, and the park is busy with Uruapan families at weekends — which tells you something about how genuinely good it is. Allow at least two hours to walk the main trail properly.