Heads Up: La Mesa Ecopark's Phase 3 Mini Forest Trail Is Now Open

(SPOT.ph) La Mesa Ecopark is known as one of the Metro's last lungs, as it is one of our few green spaces. Earlier in the year, we saw parts of the 33-hectare park resume operations and reopen to the public after its stewardship was transferred to the Manila Water Foundation.

Although many were delighted at the prospect of a new park, only a small portion of the park was initially opened. But now, as a last-minute treat before the holidays, La Mesa Ecopark has announced the opening of a mini forest trail as part of Phase 3 of their development. Check out what this means for outdoor enthusiasts around the Metro. 

Also read: Activities To Do in the Reopened La Mesa Ecopark

Here's what we know about this new area in La Mesa Ecopark:

The Mini Forest Trail is a 1.5-kilometer loop within the La Mesa Ecopark. This trail is home to many rare bird species, such as the Rough-crested Malkoha, the Many-lined Sun Skink, the endemic Philippine Eagle Owl, and other animals, much to the delight of birdwatchers and nature aficionados everywhere.

Aside from looking at the surrounding flora and fauna, this trail is also a good place to exercise and enjoy the outdoors without leaving Metro Manila. Nature treks and (mindful) trail biking are also allowed in this area.

But before you head to the La Mesa Ecopark with all your hiking and trekking gear, La Mesa Ecopark clarifies that this mini forest trail is different from the massive network of 40- to 60-kilometer trails at the La Mesa Nature Reserve that used to be open to the public.

"This mini-forest is still within the La Mesa Ecopark. The La Mesa Nature Reserve is currently under MWSS," says La Mesa Ecopark in the comment section of their Facebook announcement. The page goes on to state that they would not be able to provide more details about the great La Mesa Nature Reserve as this is outside their current mandate.

"Safety is one of the reasons [why other trails within the park are still closed]. We need to clear the area, maintain the facilities, and rehabilitate the eco-park," adds La Mesa Ecopark in response to questions as to why other portions of the Ecopark are not yet available to the public.

Sure, 1.5 kilometers may not necessarily be a lot for expert trail runners and hikers, but for beginners and those with young kids, this seems like the perfect spot to dip your toes wet in the joys of the great outdoors.

How to visit La Mesa Ecopark

La Mesa Ecopark welcomes visitors from Tuesday to Sunday, 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. 

Guests looking to explore the mini forest trail in Phase 3 will be charged a P50 fee. This can be paid at the registration booth at the entrance. 

Additionally, a minimal entrance fee to the La Mesa Ecopark will be collected upon arrival. But if you're from Quezon City, this fee is waived. Simply present a valid ID with your QC address, and you're all set.

For more information, visit La Mesa Ecopark's Facebook page. 

Also read: 
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Update, August 6, 2026: La Mesa Eco Park has updated their registration procedures for entering the park. The article has been updated to reflect this development.