At 2,316 metres, Pico da Caledônia is the highest point in the Nova Friburgo municipality and one of the higher peaks in the Serra do Mar. The summit is reached by a trail that starts from the district of São Gonçalo, a hike of three to five hours depending on pace and conditions. The upper reaches pass through cloud forest and open campos de altitude — high-altitude grasslands dotted with distinctive vegetation — and the view from the summit, on a clear day, extends in every direction across the serras.
The hike requires reasonable fitness and decent footwear; the trail is maintained but can be wet and rocky in places. A guide is recommended for first-time visitors. The park authority (the area sits within the APA do Macaé de Cima) may require registration before entry. Start early to be down before afternoon cloud rolls in, which it does on most days year-round.