La Muela translates to The Molar, and once you get near the top of this hike you’ll be able to see where that name comes from. The route starts in Xela, and if you want to walk up the highway you can do that, but the bus will save you a kilometer of possibly dangerous roadside walking. Once on the trail up the hill, you’ll pass through beautiful fields and forests before reaching the volcanic rock fields that make up La Muela and the areas around it. The views from the top are great, and there are also further peaks that you can go to if you have a lot of time and are feeling adventerous.

1. From Parque Central, walk two blocks south, then two blocks east to get to the gas station where buses leave town.
2. Take a bus for Almolonga or Zunil. Tell the Ayudante that you want to go to La Muela. (Try to) pay only 1 Quetzal.
3. Follow the road up the hill.
4. Turn right at this dirt track.
5. Reach the soccer field! Take a break if you want.
6. Now the hike gets fun. Climb up the volcanic rockfield until you get to the top.