Did you know that Santa Fe is one of the top destinations in the Southwest for hiking?
Outdoor adventurers flock to Santa Fe just to lace on their hiking shoes and discover what the natural landscape of our breathtaking region has to offer. If you’re one of these visitors, you’re in luck!
There is a nearly neverending list of Santa Fe hiking trails, each one unique in its own way! Whether you’re a beginner in search of a fun and easy outdoor activity or an avid hiker eager to take on your next challenge, here are just a handful of the area’s most popular hiking trails that you should try during your next visit.
Don’t forget to request your FREE copy of our Chimayo Vacation Guide to find even more local hiking trails and outdoor activities to fill your New Mexico itinerary.
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10 of the Best Santa Fe Hiking Trails
1. Atalaya Mountain Trail (Easy)
Atalaya Mountain Trail in Santa Fe is a 6 mile out and back trail that leads you through the lovely aspen forests. The journey ends on a mountaintop that boasts a stunning mountain view.
It is considered an easy hike and exemplary for families on an afternoon excursion. Dogs are also welcome on the trail as long as they are kept on a leash.
2. Canyon Trail at Tent Rocks (Easy)
If you’d like to see the famous Tent Rocks while wandering through a labyrinth-like slot canyon, then the Canyon Trail is for you! At only 1.2-miles long, you’ll be able to take your time admiring the ancient cone-shaped rock formations and local flora and fauna.
3. Chamisa Trail (Moderate)
The Chamisa Trail in Santa Fe is a moderate-level hike through the mountains of Santa Fe. The best months to embark down the trail are April-October when the weather is typically warm and beautiful.
Although it is primarily a hiking destination, mountain bikers can also get their fix on the trail.
4. La Tierra Trails (Moderate)
Developed in 2008, the La Tierra Trails in Santa Fe makeup 10.5-miles of untouched Southwestern beauty. These trails are also popular among mountain bikers for its highly-maintained terrain, large rollers, and jumps.
Hikers will be delighted by the jaw-dropping mountain views and serene setting that the trail provides. It’s one of our favorites for a relaxing day hike!
5. Aspen Vista Trail (Moderate)
The Aspen Vista Trail in Santa Fe is a lightly-trafficked route through the Santa Fe National Forest. It is rated as a moderate trail, meaning it may become difficult for beginners. Many explorers are attracted to this trail for its length and plethora of natural features including wildflower fields, a river, waterfall, and lake.
6. Dale Ball Trails
The Dale Ball Trails are the way to go if you and your loved ones want to spend most of the day exploring. Consisting of nearly 23-miles of hiking and mountain biking trails, you’ll embark on an unforgettable trek through some of Santa Fe’s most striking regions.
These trails are considered to be moderate and may not be the best choice for beginners. If you’re up to the challenge, however, we believe this adventure is ideal for Santa Fe hiking.
7. La Piedra Trail (Moderate)
The La Piedra Trail in Santa Fe is connected to the Dale Ball system and makes its way into the Santa Fe National Forest.
The trail also stretches approximately 1.3-miles, making for a quick yet exciting trip. This steep trek provides over 30 switchbacks for mountain bikers and plenty of natural beauty for hikers to enjoy.
8. Winsor Trail (Difficult)
Known as one of the jewels of the National Park system, Winsor Trail is a challenging yet rewarding journey. The 13-mile trail winds its way through stunning pine forests, alpine meadows, and along meandering streams.
It’s a relaxing and scenic trek through nature that everyone needs to experience at least once!
9. Nambe Lake Trail (Difficult)
Nambe Lake Trail in Santa Fe is a moderately-trafficked out and back route that meanders 6.4-miles to a small lake in the nearby wilderness. The journey begins in the Santa Fe Ski Area parking lot and will lead you through beautiful aspen and pine forests accented with views of Mount Baldy.
After a brief uphill climb, you’ll come across Nambe Lake, a small and shallow body of water that offers picturesque views of the surrounding mountains.
10. Kitchen Mesa Trail (Difficult)
While the Kitchen Mesa Trail may be the furthest from Santa Fe on this list, you’ll soon understand why we just had to include it on this list!
The trail is located in Ghost Ranch, which is approximately just over an hour from Santa Fe. However, the journey is an absolute must! Not only will you see plenty of stunning Southwest scenery, but you’ll also have the chance to scour beside a cliff and view a magnificent canyon.
Hikers who have taken this trail before claim it starts out fairly easy but then becomes strenuous as you climb into the canyon, so be sure you bring plenty of energy and water!
Explore New Mexico With Our High Country Hiking Package
We want our guests to experience what makes Santa Fe hiking unlike anywhere else in the world! That’s why we’re more than happy to offer our New Mexico High Country Hiking Package!
This vacation special is the perfect addition to any stay at Casa Escondida and includes
- Use of 1 daypack
- Use of 1 pair of trekking poles
- 2 bottled waters
- New Mexico Hiking Guide
- Use of 1 pair of binoculars
- Trail snacks for two
- Lip balm and sunblock
- First aid kit
It’s everything you’ll need and more for a memorable hiking getaway to Santa Fe. Call us today at 505-351-4805 to reserve your stay and don’t forget to mention the New Mexico High Country Hiking Package!
Welcome to Your Home-Away-From-Home in Northern New Mexico
At Casa Escondida Bed and Breakfast, our guests have the ability to enjoy a serene and tranquil countryside setting without sacrificing convenience to some of Northern New Mexico’s best cities and towns!
During your stay, you’ll be spoiled with warm hospitality, your choice of accommodation in one of our nine inviting guest rooms, and a delicious hot breakfast served each morning of your stay.
We also provide a wide array of vacation packages and specials that make it even easier for you to enjoy the vacation that you want! From romantic escapes to epic family vacations, you’ll hardly find a better place to stay than Casa Escondida.
Check our availability and book your next getaway with us today! We look forward to seeing you in Chimayo soon.
