Located in the Greater Lagro area of Quezon City, La Mesa Ecopark is a 33-hectare urban oasis and the last ecological frontier of Metro Manila, where conservation and recreation coexist in perfect harmony, providing urban residents a rejuvenating retreat into nature and along with a variety of outdoor activities.
As one of the last green lungs of Metro Manila and a gateway to the city’s biodiversity, the park promises an experience that blends scenic relaxation, environmental education, and immersive adventure activities, all set amidst its picturesque trails, diverse flora, and fauna.
The Ecopark’s natural beauty is its main draw, serving as a sanctuary aimed at fostering biodiversity preservation, watershed conservation, forest protection, and climate action.
Visitors can breathe in the fresh air and enjoy cooler temperatures, while embarking on nature walks along shaded trails that meander through lush forests filled with native trees like mahogany, acacia, and bamboo. They can also observe over 220 documented species, which include 135 plants, 53 birds, 22 reptiles and amphibians, and seven mammals. Notable highlights feature endemic species like the Scale-feathered Malkoha and rarer sightings like the Lesser Dog-faced Fruit Bat and Many-lined Sun Skink.
The park is a living laboratory, hosting a diverse array of flora and fauna, making it an ideal location for:
- Birdwatching: The park and its surrounding watershed serve as an important stopover and breeding ground for numerous migratory bird species. Nature enthusiasts can engage in guided birdwatching tours, coordinated with local bird clubs, to spot Luzon-endemic species.
- Nature Walks and Jogging: Scenic paths and running trails offer a peaceful environment for exercise and relaxation away from the urban bustle.
- Picnicking: A variety of picnic tables, huts, and open spaces are available for families and groups to bond amidst nature, with food stalls conveniently located on-site.
For those in search of adventure, the Ecopark presents a variety of activities aimed at boosting adrenaline levels:
- Biking: Mountain biking is a favorite here, with trails suited for various skill levels.
- Water Activities: A boating lagoon is available for paddle-boating and recreational fishing (please note that fishing is currently undergoing renovations).
- Adventure Zone: The park features a dedicated area that offers a myriad of activities such as wall climbing, rappelling, paintball, and archery tag, ensuring fun and fitness for all ages.
- Swimming: A swimming pool complex is available for a refreshing dip (though some facilities may be temporarily closed for renovation).
Beyond recreation, La Mesa Ecopark serves a vital environmental role, with its lush forests contributing to oxygen production, enhancing air quality, and protecting the La Mesa Watershed, a key source of drinking water for the metropolitan area. The revenue generated from the park is reinvested into the continuous preservation and protection of the entire La Mesa Watershed.
Educational facilities aimed at promoting environmental awareness and conservation initiatives, such as the Save La Mesa Watershed Project, offer visitors the chance to learn about the significance of conserving natural resources.
A visit to La Mesa Ecopark is not just a leisurely outing but also an opportunity to engage in environmental stewardship. Each step through the park reinforces the fragile balance between humans and nature, while emphasizing awareness of the ecological importance of forests in supporting biodiversity and addressing climate change.
In essence, La Mesa Ecopark serves as a much-needed refuge from the hectic pace of the metro, allowing visitors to break free from the urban chaos and take a moment to relax, discover, and reconnect with nature.
This Ecopark presents an urban escape that educates, entertains, and inspires every visitor to simply immerse with the lush greenery, ideal for anyone looking for a peaceful getaway, an active day of trail riding, or simply a rejuvenating breath of fresh air.