Volcán Poás
Elevation gain: 424 ft, 130 m.
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Volcán Poás is the most frequently visited of the volcanoes in Costa Rica. It is close to San Jose, and has a wonderful hike through cloud forest to see two craters. It can also be done as an out-and-back to the first crater, keeping the distance and especially the elevation gain down. The trails are frequently in the clouds by noon, making it difficult to get any views of the lagoons, but if you get an early start and have some luck, you'll beat the clouds and have some amazing views.
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Much of the first half mile is wide, paved road used exclusively by hikers. In fact, it's got two lanes separated by a median, so you won't walk into someone coming down. Follow the signs to the lagoon, and the new observation decks that have recently been built. If the clouds cooperate, you'll be able to see into the crater of this active volcano. You may even be able to see a fumarole (a steam and gas vent from the volcano).
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At this point you can either return to the visitor center, or complete a loop that takes you past an older crater and lagoon. This trail gets narrower and climbs nearly all of the elevation gained. The forest feels much closer and more intimate due to the narrow path and significant reduction in fellow hikers. Keep an eye out for wildlife and unique plants that inhabit this pristine cloud forest. Continue on this path for 0.7 miles and you will come to the second lagoon. This lagoon fills a crater that last erupted in 7500 BC.
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Follow the paved trail around the ridge of the crater and back down to the parks visitor center.
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