The summit provides panoramic views of the island, from the green mountains surrounding Curral das Freiras to the Ribeira Grande and São Jorge valleys.

[citation needed] North of the peak, a shelter, renovated in 2019, offers essential amenities such as running water, restrooms, and meal services for hikers.

[2] Pico Ruivo is accessible through a network of marked trails, all of which traverse Natura 2000 areas and unique ecosystems like the Central Mountain Massif and Laurel forest.

The final segment includes a steep climb to Pico Ruivo's shelter, with the option to continue toward Achada do Teixeira via the "Standing Man" (Homem em pé) rock formation (PR1.2).

The route traverses two distinct ecosystems: the herbaceous and shrubby vegetation of the Central Mountain Massif and the lush Laurel forest, renowned for its water retention and biodiversity.

[6] Currently closed (as of November 2024, likely due to fire damage)[8] this trail stretches westward from Pico Ruivo's shelter to Encumeada, covering 11.2 kilometres (7 mi).