As one of the top hiking destinations in the Southwest, Santa Fe supplies hundreds of incredible treks to choose from that cater to all skill levels! One trail that always seems to come up in local hiking guidebooks and conversations is the Atalaya Mountain Trail, one of our area’s most popular choices for a memorable day hike.
Read on to learn how to make the most of our adventure down the Atalaya Mountain Trail or request your FREE copy of our Chimayo Vacation Guide for a full list of even more local trails and outdoor activities in our area.
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Overview of the Atalaya Mountain Trail
Stretching approximately 5.8-miles through the mountains of Santa Fe, the Atalaya Mountain Trail is one of the most frequently traveled hiking trails in the region. Not only does it provide lovely aspen forest scenery with a mountain overlook finale, but the relatively easy terrain makes it ideal for an easy hike or family excursion.
The Journey
Your hike on the Atalaya Mountain Trail begins at a trailhead from a parking lot in St. John’s College. From here, you’ll follow the singletrack path through the lush forests of Santa Fe and up towards the summit of the mountain.
Along the way, you’ll encounter several spots that contour around steep hillsides and reveal great views overlooking the city. As you get closer to the summit, keep in mind that the climbs get just a bit steeper. This creates a fun challenge that will require you to use both your mind and body.
Once you reach the top of the mountain, have your cameras ready! The sweeping mountain views will have you scooping your jaw up from the ground. Plus, the sense of accomplishment you’ll feel is one of the best parts of conquering the Atalaya Mountain Trail.
Rest your feet and treat yourself to the awe-inspiring views before making your way back down the mountain and towards the parking lot.
Don’t Forget to Check Out These Nearby Hiking Trails
If hiking the mountain trails of Santa Fe is on your bucket list, then you definitely won’t want to skip these awesome treks that are also popular choices with our guests.
Chamisa Trail
Surrounded by beautiful aspen vistas, meadows, and mountain streams, the Chamisa Trail is another favorite among Santa Fe locals and visitors. The 4.5-mile journey gains slight elevations that may prove to be a challenge to some beginners, but we guarantee it is well worth it!
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.
Aspen Vista Trail
Located in the Santa Fe National Forest, the Aspen Vista Trail surprises its travelers with views of striking waterfalls, wildflower fields, and towering mountains.
The trail is 11.6-miles, making it one of the longest adventures in our area. If you want to spend a full day in the New Mexico wilderness, this is the trail for you!
Your Next New Mexico Adventure Awaits at Casa Escondida
When you travel 35 minutes north of Santa Fe, you’ll discover our enchanting countryside bed and breakfast, Casa Escondida.
Meaning “hidden house,” our peaceful abode lives up to its name by providing a tranquil and relaxing setting for our guests to unwind. Our guests are also spoiled with inviting guest rooms adorned with authentic Southwestern decor and antiques, pet-friendly accommodations, a delicious gourmet breakfast served each morning, and a variety of tempting vacation packages and specials.
For the ultimate hiking getaway, you’ll definitely want to check out our New Mexico High Country Hiking Package! This exclusive special includes everything you’ll need for a full day on the local trails including the use of a daypack, a New Mexico hiking guide, trails snacks for two, and much more.
Check our availability today and book your favorite room at Casa Escondida! We can’t wait to welcome you to Chimayo soon.
