Geological heritage values of Sierra la Primavera: proposal of geotourism

Abstract

The geological value of the Sierra La Primavera (slp), adjacent to Guadalajara’s Metropolitan Area, Jalisco, has remained ignored for many years. However, in the past few decades, —ever since the 19th century—, the thermal waters, —being a geohydrothermal element—, and the forest, have gained attention for recreational activities. Taking as a reference the study coordinated by González, Valdivia and Gómez in 2018, —Volcanic Geodiversity and geological heritage of Sierra La Primavera (Geodiversidad volcánica y geopatrimonio en la Sierra La Primavera)—, it has been possible to identify, document and evaluate the geodiversity and its potential to be considered heritage, focusing on those that can be considered important for geoturism practices, which are an important resource for local development. This geodiversity is the result of a 140-thousand-year volcano-lacustrine evolution that has determined the actual landscape and its worth for activities such as health resorts, picnic, camping, cycling, trekking, horseback riding, ecotourism, as well as interpretative and rural tourism.