Costa Rica Arenal 1968 Lookout and Trails

This photo was taken at Arenal 1968 Mirador y Senderos (Lookout and Hiking Trails). Arenal 1968 is a privately owned nature preserve. It is located near the base of Arenal Volcano, just a bit East of the popular town La Fortuna.

The park has an absolutely wonderful lookout area with a small cafe and bar. During my visit the volcano was completely engulfed in clouds (Arenal Volcano is East of the lookout area). However the view West is a nice shot of Lake Arenal and the surrounding terrain.

Arenal Volcano is the main attraction. So I'm hopeful someone can upload a photo of Arenal when the weather is more clear.

Nature preserve is super easy to find if you're staying in one of the towns around Arenal. Just follow highway 142 and turn on Calle Real el Castillo. It will be on your left ~1.2km down the road. If you reach Arenal Volcano National Park you have gone too far.

One final note - I would *EXTREMELY HIGHLY* recommend to visit the Arenal 1968 park instead of Arenal Volcano National Park. The national park is not very nice at all (total waste of time / money in my opinion). However Arenal 1968 Park is exceptionally well maintained, nice bathrooms, beautiful lookout areas, and a cafe / bar as I mentioned above. The hiking trails are fun and not too difficult for the average family.