San Miguel de Allende continues to reveal landscapes and ancient memories that remain unknown to many. Proof of this was the recent hiking trip in the community of Juan Xidó Cabras, where more than 100 people—adults of all ages, visitors, and locals—ventured into an environment where nature and history coexist silently, waiting to be discovered.
The group began their journey with a simple objective: to walk. But as they progressed, the experience transformed into something deeper.
Native birds, vibrant scrubland, the marks of time etched into the rocks, and a sense of camaraderie led them to a key point on the trail: the cave paintings, created more than 15 centuries ago by the area’s ancient inhabitants.
For many, it was an unexpected discovery. Nearly 80 hikers confessed to never having heard of this site, despite living in San Miguel.
“There are people from here, but we didn’t know them,” said Gabriel Parada, a member of the organizing team. His reflection, shared at the end of the hike, summarized the collective sentiment: to know is to respect, and to respect is to protect.
Organization and safety were essential to the day’s success. Personnel from the Department of Environment and Sustainability, Red Cross volunteers, firefighters, paramedics, and patrols from the Municipal Police accompanied the group, fostering trust among the participants.
Two people with physical disabilities successfully completed the ascent and descent, becoming an example of enthusiasm and determination for the entire group.
In addition to the visual discovery of the cave paintings, the trail allowed for a deeper connection with nature: observing birds in their habitat, recognizing local flora, and understanding the historical value of a site that existed long before the city we know today.
Activities like this not only promote community and physical activity, but also help to recover the region’s history, appreciate its hidden corners, and foster responsible tourism in rural areas.
Juan Xidó Cabras, discreet yet powerful in its legacy, is emerging as one of those places that deserves to be both told and preserved.
San Miguel de Allende still holds secrets, and some are only revealed when you walk toward them.
Source: oem
