Pedra Riscada, Lumiar: the trail to 1,425 metres

The striped cliff behind the village is a granite landmark 1,425 metres high. From the top you can see coastal towns, including Silva Jardim, according to Wikipedia.

Pedra Riscada cliff showing the vertical grooves in the rock
The vertical grooves of Pedra Riscada. Photo: TMbux / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0

Difficulty

Descubra Nova Friburgo rates the hike as upper moderate, with rock sections climbed on fixed ropes and rebar ladders. There are two water points on the way, but carry enough in the dry season.

Illustrative image: humid forest trail with a support rope on the rock
Roped forest trail. Illustrative AI-generated image

Where it starts

Access is through private land on the RJ-142, the Serramar road, about 3.5 km past central Lumiar. The forest entrance is not obvious; reports mention ribbons tied to branches as markers. Going with a guide or someone who knows the trail avoids getting lost.

Why it is striped

Geologists class the rock as granite and link the vertical lines to mineral alignment as the magma cooled. Local legend is more fun: jaguar claw marks from cats trying to climb up from Toca da Onça. Near the summit the curiosity is the Rhinoceros Rock, seen from the false summit.

Do not climb on rainy days: the roped rocks get slippery. Check the weather in Lumiar.

After the hike, a swim at Poço Verde on the same road is welcome. More hiking and forest at Macaé de Cima and in things to do in Lumiar.

Frequently asked questions

Can a beginner climb Pedra Riscada?
It is demanding: 745 m of climb and roped sections. Inexperienced hikers should go with a guide and good shoes.

Sources

Checked on October 19, 2026. Prices and opening hours change: always confirm with the official source before you travel.