Strap on your boots – these Santa Fe hikes are some of the best in New Mexico. Explore the area’s unique landscape with these brilliant trails.
When it comes to hikes, New Mexico is a trek-lover’s paradise. Why? Its desert landscape lends itself all-too-well to dusty paths and impressive trails.
It is going to be hot (which might be the biggest understatement, like, ever) but, equipped with enough water for multiple days and slathered in suncream, you can – and should – trek your way through the Santa Fe’s stunning environs.
Stick around and take it slow, hiking your way through Santa Fe’s distinctive landscape and the surrounding region.
Not convinced? These gorgeous Santa Fe hikes will certainly change your mind.
Best Hikes in Santa Fe
Dale Ball Trails North
Length: 4.4 Miles
Time: 1 hour and 50 minutes
Difficulty: Medium
First up: my favourite group of Santa Fe hiking trails, the Dale Ball Trails North. This network of trails sits just outside of Santa Fe and offers some great views of the city.
The main trailhead starts at the end of Upper Canyon Road, just a short drive from downtown Santa Fe. They’re well-marked and easy to follow, with occasional signs along the way to guide you.
To be honest, you could spend anything from 1 hour to all day working your way around the different trails in the system. But let’s discuss the route I took, because it was pretty impressive.
The first part of the trail is a gentle climb through a picturesque pine forest. As you make your way up, enjoy the spectacular scenery of Santa Fe and the surrounding mountains. But don’t get too comfortable — soon enough, the trail starts to get steeper and rockier, requiring more effort to navigate.
You may encounter deer, elk – and if you’re lucky, the chance to see an eagle too!
Atalaya Mountain Hiking Trail
Length: 6.2 Miles
Time: 3 hours and 40 minutes
Difficulty: Medium
Looking for hiking near Santa Fe that will leave you feeling like a mountain-climbing superhero? Look no further than the Atalaya Mountain Hiking Trail.
The trailhead sits just a few minutes outside downtown Santa Fe and is accessible year-round.
This trail is not for the faint of heart (or the weak-kneed). It’s a steep, uphill climb from start to finish. But the views at the top are worth it, I promise. The trail can be rocky in places, so be sure to wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring lots of water.
It’s important to note that the Atalaya Mountain trail is a popular destination, especially on weekends and holidays. Because of this, parking at the trailhead is limited (and always busy), so arriving early is best.
Chamisa Trail
Length: 4.5 Miles
Time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Difficulty: Medium
The Chamisa hiking trail is the epitome of Santa Fe hiking. The hike begins at the end of Hyde Park Road, just a short drive from downtown Santa Fe.
As you hike along the Chamisa trail, take in magnificent panoramas of the landscape, including towering mountains, deep valleys and lush forests. Along the way, you’ll encounter several weird and wonderful rock formations, from large boulders to high cliffs.
You may encounter slippery ice and snow hiking this trail in the colder months – so consider bringing hiking sticks for some extra stabilization. But trust me when I say that this hike has breathtaking scenery that will make you forget about your aching feet and insect bites.
La Tierra Trails Loop
Length: 10.5 Miles
Time: 4 hours
Difficulty: Hard
The La Tierra Trails Network is one of the best hikes near Santa Fe – around 10 minutes outside the city, actually. Here, the sun is hot, the path is dusty and the cacti are prickly… You’ve been warned.
Along the route you’ll encounter a variety of terrain, including rocky climbs, steep descents and sandy washes. And the trail also features several technical sections that require careful navigation, making it an excellent choice for experienced hikers looking for a challenge.
The end result is pretty spectacular; at the trail’s peak, there are rewarding outlooks of the city of Santa Fe and the Jemez Mountains. This trail is a great way to experience the natural beauty of New Mexico.
La Piedra Trail
Length: 1.6 Miles
Time: 1 hour and 40 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
The scenic La Piedra Trail is one of the best easy hikes in Santa Fe. I recommend pairing this with another of the Dale Ball trails, as this trail also starts at the Dale Ball trailhead at Sierra del Norte and Hyde Park Road.
Fancy making it even more challenging? The La Piedra Trail also connects to the Dale Ball Trail North and the Little Tesuque Creek Trail if you want to make this extend your trek.
The trail is not as technical as it is steep. Make sure to stretch those calf muscles before you start because this hike will have your legs burning. And watch out for those loose rocks.
At the top of the ridge are impressive outlooks of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The trail then descends to the creek bed, where you can cool off in the refreshing waters or return to the parking area on the loop trail.
The incredible views, challenging terrain and abundant wildlife make this trail one of the best.
Picacho Peak Hike, Sante Fe
Length: 3.8 Miles
Time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Difficulty: Medium
Picacho Peak Trail is one of the most popular Santa Fe hikes. And for good reason. It forms part of the Dale Ball system and is incredibly easy to navigate.
The trail starts near Santa Fe Canyon Preserve in a wooded area. You should also come prepared to encounter some slippery ice and muddy conditions when hiking in the cooler months.
At the summit, incredible vistas of the surrounding mountains will make you forget all about the blisters on your feet. The peak is also home to various wildlife, including birds of prey and desert bighorn sheep – bring your camera along to try your hands at wildlife photography.
With stunning scenery, unique geological formations, and abundant wildlife, this trail offers a rewarding hiking experience that will leave you breathless.
Tsankawi Ruins Hike
Length: 1.6 Miles
Time: 1 hour
Difficulty: Medium
Hiking the Tsankawi Ruins Hike is like stepping into a time machine and popping back to the days of the Ancestral Puebloans. But instead of a cosy time travel machine, you’re trekking up steep, rocky terrain that will make you feel like you’re in an episode of Survivor.
As you explore the ruins, you’ll see examples of the unique architecture and building techniques used by the Puebloans. This includes kivas, circular ceremonial rooms and cliff dwellings built into the rock. Make sure to have plenty of water and sunscreen, as there is very little shade for shelter.
The Tsankawi Ruins Hike is a fascinating and rewarding trek experience for those interested in the history and culture of the Puebloan people. The ancient ruins and the stunning New Mexican landscape are worth the blisters and sore muscles.
Aspen Vista Trails
Length: 6.1 Miles
Time: 2 hours and 40 minutes
Difficulty: Medium
Hidden away in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, the Aspen Vista Trail is one of the most popular hikes in Santa Fe. Throughout the route, there are several small streams and creeks, adding to the scenic beauty of the trail.
You’ll find the trailhead is at the end of Hyde Park Road, just a short drive from downtown Santa Fe. Your hike starts in a dense forest, with tall trees providing plenty of shade. As you climb higher, the trees begin to thin out, and you’ll see the Aspen trees that give the trail its name.
It’s important to note that the Aspen Vista Trail has a high altitude, so you should drink plenty of water and take frequent breaks if needed.
At the top, you’ll find a picnic area and restroom facilities. This is a great place to stop for a break, refuel with a snack and enjoy the beautiful scenery and fresh air.
Dorothy Stewart Trail
Length: 1.9 Miles
Time: 1-hour
Difficulty: Easy
When it comes to historically fascinating hiking trails, Santa Fe has no shortage. And hiking the Dorothy Stewart trail in Santa Fe is like a choose-your-own-adventure book.
Dorothy Stewart, a renowned artist and author who lived in Santa Fe and championed Native American art and culture, lends her name to the trail.
As you hike the Dorothy Stewart trail, you’ll encounter a variety of terrain, including steep inclines, rocky outcroppings and narrow ridges. This loop trail takes you around the mountain’s summit, offering truly picturesque landscapes.
At the height of the trail, you can also choose to continue on the Dorothy Stewart Trail or take one of the many other paths that branch off from this point. But I say you should continue on.
The real reason I love this trail so much? The trek passes by several historical landmarks, including an old stagecoach stop and the remains of a prehistoric Native American pueblo.
Best Santa Fe Hikes: Practical Tips
Check the weather. Before heading out on the hiking trails in Santa Fe, check the weather forecast and plan accordingly. Bring appropriate clothing and gear for the conditions, including rain gear, layers, and waterproof hiking trainers.
Bring plenty of water and snacks: Hiking in the high altitude of Santa Fe can be challenging and dehydrating. Be sure to bring a water bottle with plenty of water, and pack enough snacks to keep your energy levels up throughout your hike.
Follow “Leave No Trace” principles. This means collecting all your trash, staying on designated trails, and respecting wildlife and plant life.
You should come prepared with your best travel backpack, sturdy hiking shoes and warm clothing, as the temperatures in the desert can vary significantly throughout the day.
There is a possibility of encountering bears, so be sure to keep an eye out for signs like tracks, scat, and claw marks. Make noise to alert bears of your presence, and keep a reasonable distance if you encounter one.
Sante Fe Hiking Trails: Map
Santa Fe Hikes: Read More Santa Fe Guides
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