Easy hikes and walks in Santa Fe National Forest
4.5
(149)
2,276
hikers
132
hikes
Easy hiking trails in Santa Fe National Forest traverse a diverse landscape spanning 1.6 million acres in northern New Mexico. The region features elevations from 5,000 to 13,000 feet, encompassing dense ponderosa pine forests, juniper groves, and expansive meadows. Hikers can explore areas characterized by the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, river headwaters, and volcanic formations. This varied terrain provides a wide range of natural features for outdoor exploration.
Best easy hiking trails in Santa Fe National Forest
- The most popularβ¦
Last updated: May 28, 2026
5.0
(6)
69
hikers
5.91km
01:48
190m
240m
Embark on the Borrego, Windsor, and Bear Wallow Trail Loop for an easy hiking experience through a vibrant forest landscape. As you navigate the rolling elevations, you will pass throughβ¦
4
hikers
2.99km
00:54
40m
190m
East Fork Trail 137 offers a gentle hike through the Santa Fe National Forest, perfect for a quick escape into nature. You will follow the East Fork Jemez River, windingβ¦
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3
hikers
1.23km
00:23
50m
10m
Embark on the San Antonio Hot Springs Trail, an easy 0.8-mile (1.2 km) hike that leads you to natural, terraced pools. You will gain 176 feet (54 metres) in elevationβ¦
2
hikers
557m
00:11
30m
10m
Embark on an easy hike down to the soothing Spence Hot Springs. The trail, just 0.3 miles (0.6 km) long, descends gently through high desert scenery, offering glimpses of theβ¦
1
hikers
4.41km
01:26
70m
410m
The Atalaya Trail (170) offers an easy hike covering 2.7 miles (4.4 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 226 feet (69 metres). You can expect to complete this routeβ¦
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Other adventures in Santa Fe National Forest
Tips from the Community
San Antonio Hot Springs has natural hot water coming out of several sources of the hillsides. There are a few soaking pools made of primitive rock circles, each with a different temperature. There is a shorter trail that is only 0.7 miles out and back from Lake Forest Drive, but the road to get there can be closed in the winter.
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San Antonio Hot Springs has natural hot water coming out of several sources of the hillsides. There are a few soaking pools made of primitive rock circles, each with a different temperature. There is a shorter trail that is only 0.7 miles out and back from Lake Forest Drive, but the road to get there can be closed in the winter. Running the San Antonio Creek Trail is a great alternative and a nice way to see the beauty of the local forests.
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The East Fork Trail offers some nice views of tent rocks. These rock formations are cone-shaped and made by ancient volcanic eruptions.
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San Antonio Hot Springs has natural hot water coming out of several sources of the hillsides. There are a few soaking pools made of primitive rock circles, each with a different temperature. There is a shorter trail that is only 0.7 miles out and back from Lake Forest Drive, but the road to get there can be closed in the winter. Hiking the San Antonio Creek Trail is a great alternative and a nice way to see the beauty of the local forests.
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Hot or warm springs near Jemez Falls. There are several here with the top being the largest and warmest pool. As you go down they get smaller but also more natural and deeper. Definitely recommend, especially during the week when you can swim here for hours without meeting another person.
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With 9,121 feet, Atalaya Mountain is one of the highest peaks around the city of Santa Fe. It is part of the Sangre de Cristo Range. Up here, you will be treated with a stunning view towards Santa Fe, Sun Mountain, Picacho Peak and Thompson Peak.
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Spence Hot Spring is a half mile hike from a small 7 car parking area 5 miles north of Jemez Ranger District Office. The trail includes some rocks and is often muddy/slippery. The popular spring includes a small pool that accomodates about 10 people. The spring maintains a constant 95 F temperature in the tiny cave, about 88F and 84F in the upper and lower pools outside. No glass containers, camping or campfires are permitted along the trail and at the spring. Nudity will occasionally be cited by rangers. Please be considerate of the hot spring and surrounding area. The water quality is not monitored so there are possible health hazards. Avoid getting water in the nose to minimize a risk of potentially fatal parasitic amoeba called Naegleria Fowleri, common in warm springs. http://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/santafe/recreation/recarea?recid=75826&actid=50 http://www.backpacker.com/trips/new-mexico/santa-fe/albuquerque-nm-spence-hot-springs/#bp=0/img1 http://www.jemezsprings.org/hotsprings.html
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Spence Hot Spring is a half mile hike from a small 7 car parking area 5 miles north of Jemez Ranger District Office. The trail is often muddy/slippery. The popular spring includes a small pool that accommodates about 10 people. The spring maintains a constant 95 F temperature in the tiny cave, about 88F and 84F in the upper and lower pools outside. No glass containers, camping or campfires are permitted along the trail and at the spring. Nudity will occasionally be cited by rangers. Please be considerate of the hot spring and surrounding area. The water quality is not monitored so there are possible health hazards. Avoid getting water in the nose to minimize a risk of potentially fatal parasitic amoeba called Naegleria Fowleri, common in warm springs. http://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/santafe/recreation/recarea?recid=75826&actid=50 http://www.backpacker.com/trips/new-mexico/santa-fe/albuquerque-nm-spence-hot-springs/#bp=0/img1 http://www.jemezsprings.org/hotsprings.html
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are available in Santa Fe National Forest?
Santa Fe National Forest offers a wide range of hiking opportunities, with over 45 easy trails specifically designed for less strenuous exploration. In total, the forest features more than 130 routes across various difficulty levels.
What kind of terrain can I expect on easy hikes in Santa Fe National Forest?
Easy hikes in Santa Fe National Forest typically traverse diverse landscapes, including dense ponderosa pine forests, juniper groves, and expansive meadows. You'll find trails along river headwaters and through areas characterized by the majestic Sangre de Cristo Mountains, offering varied scenery without extreme elevation changes.
Are there any easy loop trails in Santa Fe National Forest?
Yes, there are easy loop trails available. A popular option is the Borrego (150), Windsor (254) and Bear Wallow (182) Trail Loop, which is about 3.7 miles long and offers a gentle ascent through varied forest scenery.
Can I find trails that lead to hot springs in the forest?
Absolutely. The forest is home to several natural hot springs. You can take the San Antonio Hot Springs Trail, a short 0.8-mile path leading through forested areas directly to the natural hot springs. Another option is the Spence Hot Springs Trail, a very short route to the popular Spence Hot Springs.
Are there any easy trails with waterfalls or riverside views?
Yes, for riverside views, consider the East Fork Trail 137. This easy 1.9-mile path follows the East Fork of the Jemez River, providing picturesque riverside scenery. For waterfalls, the Rio En Medio Trail leads to a picturesque waterfall and verdant canyon, and you can find Jemez Falls and Pecos Falls within the forest.
What do other hikers say about the easy trails in Santa Fe National Forest?
The easy trails in Santa Fe National Forest are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 60 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse natural features, the peaceful forest environment, and the accessibility of these routes for a relaxing outdoor experience.
What are some notable natural attractions or landmarks I can see on easy hikes?
Beyond the trails themselves, you can explore several natural attractions. These include the popular Spence Hot Springs and San Antonio Hot Springs. Other unique geological formations like Los Alamos Natural Arch and Saint Peter's Dome are also worth exploring.
Are there any easy trails near the city of Santa Fe?
Yes, the Atalaya Trail (170) offers an easy section near Santa Fe, providing scenic views of the surrounding landscapes. The Chamisa Trail Loop is also a good option near the city, winding through ponderosa pine forests and meadows.
When is the best time of year to visit Santa Fe National Forest for easy hikes?
The Santa Fe National Forest offers year-round access to its extensive trail system. Spring and fall are particularly pleasant for easy hikes, with wildflowers blooming in spring and golden aspens gracing the high country in the fall. Summer provides warm weather, while winter offers opportunities for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing on some trails, though conditions should always be checked.
Are there any historical sites or cultural attractions accessible via easy trails?
The forest contains thousands of cultural and archaeological sites. While not always directly on easy hiking trails, portions of historic routes like the Santa Fe Trail and Old Spanish Trail cross the forest. You can also find ancient petroglyphs at La Cieneguilla and explore ancient Puebloan culture at Tsankawi Prehistoric Sites, which are generally accessible.
What kind of wildlife might I see on an easy hike in Santa Fe National Forest?
The diverse habitats within the forest support a variety of wildlife. On an easy hike, you might spot mule deer, elk, and various bird species. While less common, black bears and bighorn sheep also inhabit the area, enhancing the natural experience.
Are there any specific trails known for their scenic views?
Many trails offer scenic views, especially those that provide glimpses of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. The Atalaya Trail (170), even its easier sections, can offer panoramic views. The CaΓ±ones Creek National Recreation Trail is also known for spectacular views of CaΓ±ones Canyon cliffs.
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