The Pista Cláudio Coutinho is a flat, paved walking and jogging path that runs from Praia Vermelha around the seaward base of the Morro da Urca, hugging the rocks where the Atlantic breaks against the foot of Sugarloaf. It is an easy, scenic stroll — popular with Urca residents at dawn and dusk — with Atlantic forest on one side, open sea on the other, and troops of tiny marmosets often visible in the trees.
About halfway along, a marked trailhead branches off for the steeper hike up the Morro da Urca, a free alternative to the first stage of the cable car. Even if you only walk the paved section and turn back, it is one of the most beautiful short walks in the city.