At 28,000 acres, El Yunque is a very small national forest (Yosemite, by comparison, is nearly three-quarters of a million acres). As such, it is ideal for day trips. Overnight stays, in fact, are usually prohibited, so the activities and attractions inside the park are designed to be seen in one day. The drive through the park is fairly short; the public road through El Yunque ends about 5mi (8km) beyond the El Portal Tropical Forest Center. As you drive along, you will see Las Cabezas Observation Point, which offers a nice view of the park, and La Coca Falls, where one of the shorter hiking trails originates. Past Yokahú Tower, the next attraction, there is La Mina Falls. Swimming and wading are allowed in these pools, so bring a bathing suit. You may also to break for lunch here, as the waterfall is located very close to the Palo Colorado Information Center and Picnic Area. If you have forgotten to pack a picnic, the Yuquiyú Delights cafeteria at the nearby Sierra Palm Picnic Area sells hot food.

Beyond Palo Colorado, there are several hiking trails leading to Mt. Britton Lookout Tower, El Yunque Peak and Los Picachos. All of these trails are fairly short, but have steep slopes. The view from the top, however, is worth the climb.