Know Before You Go
Hours of Operation
Please Note: Occasionally the forest is closed for weather or safety reasons. Monitor any special alerts or our social media for up-to-date information on forest status.
- Open Daily (closed on Christmas Day only)
- The Forest: 8am – 5:00pm (the Gate at La Coca Falls closes at 5:00pm promptly)
- El Portal Visitor Center is open from 9a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Supervisor’s Office: Currently closed but available remotely via phone 787- 888- 1880. Monday – Friday 8:00 am – 11:30 am; 12:30 pm – 4:30pm – Closed on weekends and federal holidays
Entrance Fees
Reservation Tickets for El Yunque (191 N)
An entry ticket will be required when visiting the main recreation area (starting at La Coca Falls Rd 191 - km. 8.1) Tickets must be reserved in advance through Recreation.gov
More Information HERE.
Special Alerts and Notices
Hurricane Maria Recovery: Repairs to Forest roads, recreational facilities and trails continue along with efforts to stabilize landslides damaged throughout the Forest. Access to trails and sites will vary as road work, debris removal, and facility repairs continue within and on the way to El Yunque National Forest. Visitors can expect traffic delays and temporary closures to facilitate ongoing recovery work. While efforts have been taken to provide for safe travel and recreation use of areas, be mindful that recovery efforts both within and outside the Forest will continue for several years.
Flash Flooding: Always consult the National Weather Service forecast before visiting a national forest. Remember, flash floods develop so rapidly that you may not get a warning. Any time a warning is issued, climb to safety immediately. Do not remain in a low-lying area. It develops rapidly and can strike with little or no warning. Flash floods can occur between hills, near small streams or in any low area. More Info HERE.
Transportation: It is recommend that you secure your own vehicle or a guided tour to have the best experience during your visit. We are experiencing issues with groups being brought to the forest and getting dropped off at the Visitor's Center or in the forest where there is no cell phone signal to arrange for return transportation.
Important Preparation for El Yunque:
You may want to bring a towel, raincoat, and biodegradable bug spray and sunscreen.
Wear good shoes with traction: it is a rainforest and it is wet and mossy. Wet surfaces can be a hazard and even more so if it's on a slope.
Swimming: There are several locations for water play. Always be aware, alert and cautious for signs of flash flooding.
Plan your time: Estimate time for walking a trail against the gate closure at 5pm.
Stay Hydrated: When it's hot and humid, your risk of dehydration and heat illness increases. That's because when the air is humid, sweat can't evaporate and cool you as quickly as it normally does, and this can lead to an increased body temperature and the need for more fluids.
Dogs: Dogs are allowed in the National Forest, but they must be leashed at all times.