New Mexico is a great place to hike, and there are many wonderful hiking destinations to explore. Hiking in New Mexico provides opportunities to explore a variety of landscapes, from the rugged mountains to the beautiful deserts.
There are many wonderful hiking destinations in New Mexico, USA, so hikers of all levels can find a trail that is right for them. It is a great way to see some of the most incredible and beautiful scenery that New Mexico has to offer. However, make sure to apply sunscreens and bring plenty of water, as it can get hot in New Mexico, even at high altitudes.
Best Wonderful Hiking Destinations in New Mexico, USA
Looking for the best hiking in New Mexico? We’ve covered the top trails, hiking, trips, backpacking, camping, and more in New Mexico, USA.
Hike at Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument
If you’re looking for an enjoyable yet challenging hike in the Northern New Mexico area, look no further than the Tent Rocks National Monument. This 3-mile hike takes you through incredible desert hoodoos and beautiful slot canyons with minimal elevation gain, making it perfect for hikers of all levels.
In addition to this, the rocks at Tent Rocks are cone-shaped because of the erosion that happened after a volcanic explosion millions of years ago. Note that this is a day-use only site and the gate closes at different times depending on the season.
Trampas Lakes in Carson National Forest
This hike is one of the best in New Mexico and is not hiked as often as other trails. You can see amazing views of two alpine lakes and if you keep going, you can get an incredible 360 view of Santa Fe National Park, Carson National Park, and more.
There are many wonderful hiking destinations in New Mexico, USA but this hike is one of the best. It is located in Carson National Forest, and there are many options for camping nearby.
The best part of this area is that you can climb to the ridge line surrounding the peaks, which is about 1200 feet. From there, to the north, you can see Wheeler Peak, and to the south, you can scramble Truchas Peak.
Carlsbad Caverns
The Carlsbad Caverns are a stunning example of what nature can do with time. It is a beautiful hike and gives a truly unique experience.
If you’re looking for an adventure that’s out of the ordinary, plan a trip to Carlsbad Caverns National Park. The park can be accessed by a seven-mile scenic road that starts and ends in Whites City. Once you arrive at the ranger station, you can purchase tickets to tour the caves.
There are two ways to enter the cave. The first is through the natural entrance, which leads to a mile-long, steep slope. The second is to take the elevator located inside the ranger station in the middle of the park straight down into the big room.
Hike to Wheeler Peak and Williams Lake
Williams lake is a great place to rest and refuel before taking on the peak. You can either hike 4 miles to the alpine lake or 7 miles round trip to the peak. It’s hard to go wrong with either option, but if you’re up for it, bagging Wheeler Peak is definitely worth it.
Towards Williams Lake, the trail parallels the Lake Fork of the Rio Hondo and gradually ascends through forests for two miles. Take some time to enjoy the beauty of the surrounding Sangre de Cristo mountain range and this stunning high alpine lake at Williams Lake. And, take advantage of this opportunity to dip your feet in the water and enjoy a picnic.
Lake Katherine in the Pecos Wilderness
Visit an alpine lake in the Pecos Wilderness near Santa Fe, New Mexico, for an overnight trip. It could be a day hike, but it’s best if you have some time to take it all in.
This trail is very popular and well-marked, so you’re unlikely to find much solitude here, especially on weekends. This trail is best to visit from June to October.
The starting point for the trail is the parking lot at Ski Santa Fe. The trail takes you up to Lake Katherine, which is at an elevation of 11,700 feet, from the 10,250-foot level. And, those who are feeling ambitious can hike Santa Fe Baldy from the saddle. Please note that camping is prohibited within 200 feet of the lake, and forest rangers monitor it. So, if your camp is too close, they’ll make you move it.
Hike to Alcove House
In Bandelier National Monument, climb four wooden ladders to reach the incredible historical site of the Ancestral Pueblo people.
To begin your hike, head out on the Main Loop Trail from the Visitor’s Center. Hiking the loop can be done either by crossing the river across from the Visitor’s Center or by heading out straight behind it. After visiting the Visitor’s Center, enjoy a tasty local meal and beer at Pajarito Brewpub and Grill in Los Alamos.
San Antonio Hot Springs
Located on the mountainside, this hot spring offers an incredible view while you soak in crystal clear water.
There is a short hike from the parking area along Forest Service Road 376 to these hot springs.
Enjoy some peace and relaxation while you soak in the fresh hot spring. It is a frequently visited spot, so please practice Leave No Trace principles while you are out there. You can even take the extra step of picking up litter and trash you see.
