High above Rio de Janeiro’s sprawling west side stands Pedra do Ponto. This majestic peak is often mistaken for its more famous neighbor Pedra Branca. Pedra do Ponto however boasts breathtaking panoramic views. Its almost 1000 meters altitude offers a superior vantage point. You can see much more than from Pedra Branca the city’s highest point.
Many trails lead to Pedra do Ponto’s summit. One popular route begins near Rua Claudino Barata. The initial climb is steep and exposed. The sun beats down mercilessly. Reaching the electricity towers provides some relief. From the Morro da Bandeira a small hill with a Brazilian flag you can already glimpse the summit in the distance. The trail continues offering stunning views of the neighborhoods between Deodoro and Campo Grande.
The trail then intersects with the Transcarioca route. Turning right leads you towards Pedra do Ponto. This section is mostly grassland with little shade. A rock shelter provides a welcome rest stop. From here you can admire the western Rio neighborhoods including the Gericinó massif and Serra do Mendanha. The final stretch rewards you with beautiful rock formations and rare trees offering respite from the sun.
After roughly two kilometers from the open grassland the summit is reached. The effort is worth it. The views from Pedra do Ponto’s summit are incredible. You see a large part of the park a stretch of Barra da Tijuca’s coastline and the end of Restinga da Marambaia. You can also see numerous neighborhoods including Jacarepaguá Realengo Padre Miguel Bangu Campo Grande and Pedra de Guaratiba. Major mountains are visible too. These include Pico da Pedra Branca Pedra do Quilombo Pedra Grande and Morro do Lameirão. Pico da Tijuca and Pedra da Gávea are visible as well. On clear days even Guanabara Bay and the distant silhouette of Dedo de Deus in the Serra dos Órgãos are visible.
This climb to Pedra do Ponto is a true adventure. It represents a personal milestone for many hikers like the author of one account. For him it marked his 500th hike a return to a place of childhood memories. The memory is made even sweeter by the stunning views and the sense of accomplishment at reaching the summit of this magnificent peak. The experience is worth the effort.