The best walks and hikes in Taos County

If you're aiming for the top of New Mexico, the Wheeler Peak via Williams Lake Trail is a popular and direct route. This moderate 4.6-mile (7.3 km) hike involves a substantial 2846 feet (867 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 2 hours and 52 minutes. You'll journey through lush forests, past the picturesque Williams Lake, and then ascend above the tree line into rocky, exposed terrain with scree fields and switchbacks, culminating in panoramic views from the Wheeler Peak Summit.

Planning your visit requires an early start, especially during summer, to avoid afternoon thunderstorms common in the mountains. Acclimatization to the high altitude is important due to the rapid elevation gain. The trail is well-marked, but be aware that horses are not allowed on the narrow, uneven sections of the Wheeler Peak portion.

This trail is notable as the shortest and most popular way to reach Wheeler Peak, the highest point in New Mexico at 13,161 feet. The hike to Williams Lake itself is a rewarding destination, even if you don't continue to the summit. Keep an eye out for wildlife, such as bighorn sheep, and enjoy the abundant wildflowers in season.

The La Junta and River Trail Loop takes you deep into the dramatic landscapes of the Rio Grande del Norte National Monument, offering a unique perspective on New Mexico's high desert. You'll descend into an 800-foot deep canyon, navigating steep sections and switchbacks through ancient piñon and juniper forests. The standout feature is La Junta Point, where you can witness the stunning confluence of the reddish-brown Rio Grande and the greener Red River, with the Sangre de Cristo Mountains forming a majestic backdrop.

Planning your visit requires a key consideration: the La Junta Trail, a core part of this loop, has been closed since 2018 due to unsafe conditions like erosion. While the full loop isn't currently possible, you can still access the river confluence via alternate routes such as the Little Arsenic or Big Arsenic Trails. The La Junta Point overlook itself is fully accessible, including for wheelchairs, making it a rewarding destination for everyone.

This moderate hike covers 8.1 miles (13.1 km) with 1680 feet (512 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 4 hours and 12 minutes. The terrain can be technically challenging in places, requiring sure-footedness. Keep an eye out for local wildlife like mule deer or bighorn sheep among the ancient trees, adding to the natural allure of this historically significant area.

The Rift Valley Loop Trails offer a captivating hiking experience through the unique landscape above the Rio Grande Gorge. You'll traverse a mix of gentle ascents and rolling hills, with sparse vegetation like piñon pines and junipers giving way to panoramic vistas of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Keep an eye out for the dramatic views into the gorge itself, a truly memorable sight on this easy 3.9-mile (6.3 km) route.

Planning your visit to these popular trails is straightforward, with parking available at trailheads such as The Upper Slide Trail. Since the 1 hour and 40 minute hike has little shade, it's wise to bring ample water and sun protection, especially if you're tackling the 220 feet (67 metres) of elevation gain during the warmer months. Spring and early summer are ideal for experiencing the vibrant wildflowers.

These trails are situated within the geologically significant Rio Grande Rift, offering a dramatic backdrop rarely seen elsewhere. Beyond the stunning Rift Valley Loop viewpoints, the area holds historical importance with evidence of ancient Puebloan presence and is home to diverse wildlife like mule deer and red-tailed hawks. It's a multi-use area, welcoming hikers, mountain bikers, and trail runners alike.

The Platinum Trail and Summit Trail offers a classic mountain hiking experience, leading you steadily upwards to panoramic views. As you ascend, expect a well-maintained path, often a true singletrack, that provides a continuous but manageable climb. The highlight is reaching the Red Mountain Ski Area Summit, where you'll be treated to expansive vistas of the surrounding New Mexico landscape, making the effort entirely worthwhile.

This moderate 6.0-mile (9.6 km) hike, with its 1816 feet (553 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 3 hours and 1 minutes. While specific trailhead parking information isn't available, trails like this often start from ski resort areas. Always check for seasonal access, as conditions can vary, and plan to carry enough water for the sustained climb.

This route is ideal for hikers seeking a good workout with a clear objective: a summit with a view. It's a great way to experience the higher elevations of Red River, New Mexico, offering a taste of the region's rugged beauty. The trail's design, often praised for its construction, ensures a pleasant journey for those ready for a steady uphill trek.

The South Boundary Trail to First Peak offers a quick, high-reward escape into the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, immersing you in the natural beauty of the Carson National Forest. You'll hike through serene conifer forests and impressive stands of aspen, with the terrain shifting between singletrack and some rocky, loose sections. The highlight is a memorable overlook near the El Nogal descent, providing sweeping views of the Taos area, making it a quintessential alpine experience for a relatively short outing. This easy hiking route is perfect for those seeking impressive vistas without a strenuous climb.

Access the trail from the El Nogal Trailhead, which is a popular starting point for this segment of the South Boundary Trail. While the route is generally accessible, be aware that it's a multi-use path, so you might share the trail with mountain bikers and horseback riders. For the most spectacular visual experience, consider visiting in autumn when the aspens ignite with vibrant yellow and gold foliage, though the trail is beautiful throughout the hiking season.

This specific 1.8-mile (2.9 km) segment to First Peak, with its 926 feet (282 metres) of elevation gain and estimated 1 hour and 1 minute duration, is considered easy, making it a great option for beginners or families. It's part of the much longer South Boundary Trail, which is renowned as an IMBA Epic mountain bike trail, highlighting its significance in the region. This particular section offers a taste of that grandeur in a manageable package.