There is something that draws us to mud. We found more of it while hiking at the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve. 
There are three main cloud forests in Monteverde. The most popular is the Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve.
We chose the Santa Elena Cloud Forest to avoid the crowds. There were still plenty of people there, but we only ran into a few people on our hike.
When we left our house that morning it was sunny. As we rose in elevation on the 15-minute drive over to the reserve it began to get cloudy. By the time we reached the reserve, it was raining. It was a gentle rain.
You have to pay an entrance fee, but it is reasonable and kids 7 and under are free. There are bathrooms and a gift shop and cafeteria. The cafeteria has delicious hot chocolate.
There are several different paths to choose from. We were not crazy enough to do the longest trail, Caño Negro -4.8 kilometers. Instead, we did the Encantado trail and the Del Bajo trail for a total of 6 kilometers. Wait… hmmm.
The trails are mostly well maintained. They were extremely muddy and a few places had trees blocking the path. The boys thought those were the best parts. 
Henry brought his camera and desperately wanted to take pictures of birds. We heard the birds. Both the birds and Henry did not have the patience to see or be seen. He did find a tarantula. 
It is very peaceful to walk through a cloud forest, in the rain. The lush green of the plants and trees and the sounds of the animals and rushing water of the rivers and small waterfalls are therapeutic. 
A great part of this trip so far is the time we spend outside. We all learn a lot by disconnecting from technology and engaging with nature.
We recommend exploring a cloud forest if you ever find yourself in Monteverde.
