Contact Info
- Phone:
- 575-587-2255
Basics
- Length:
- 6.3 miles
- Difficulty:
- Easy,
Intermediate - Time:
- 2 - 3 hours
- Trailhead Elevation:
- 8150 feet
- Usage:
- Moderate to Heavy
- Season:
- Year Round
Description
Trails 1, 2, and 3 are excellent beginner trails with gentle slopes and open ponderosa pine stands and meadows. There is only a 300 foot elevation gradient from start to finish. Trails 1 and 2 are groomed and tracked periodically. Trail 4, 5, and 6 are intermediate trails with slightly steeper slopes and longer distances.
Trail 7 has a more gentle nature although it is approximately one mile longer. It is rated as more difficult. Near the head of Amole Canyon there are apporximately 200 yards of 20% grade. Recommended direction of travel for both the Upper and Lower Loops is up Amole Canyon. There are signs at intersections and blue diamonds designate the courses. For the adventurous, there are many unmarked logging roads in the area. Please don't travel alone. There is no patrol.
Trail 8 is rated as most difficult due to the 1/4 mile of 20% grade. This portion is narrow and not recommended unless one has mastered steep, narrow courses.
In the summer months trail can be used for hiking, and mountain biking. Trail is used in the winter for cross country skiing and snowshoeing.
Tour Companies
Outspire Hiking and Snowshoeing
- Santa Fe Area
- Snowshoeing, Hiking
- 505-660-0394
From alpine to desert, Outspire guides enrich your experience by giving context to your hike. So that your destination is not only what you see, but a sense of where the area fits in New Mexico's history, geology and natural world. Our hiking guides are experienced, enthusiastic, and motivated to share the joy of being outside! Day hikes and winter snowshoe outings are planned to suit your interests and fitness.Helpful Links
Tour Companies
Outspire Hiking and Snowshoeing
- Santa Fe Area
- Snowshoeing, Hiking
- 505-660-0394
Details
Length:
Difficulty:
Intermediate
Time:
Trailhead Elevation:
Usage:
Season:
Useful Map(s):
Map + Directions
Basic Directions
From Taos, follow State Highway 518 approximately 15 miles south of the junction of State Highway 68 and 518, approximately 2 miles past the U.S. Hill Vista (on the left). Parking is available on the left side (east) of the highway (Forest Road 703 entrance).
From the Camino Real Ranger Station take State Highway 75 north through Vadito for 5 miles to the junction of Sate Highway 518 and proceed 1.5 miles to the Amole Canyon Road, Forest Road 703. Parking lot on the right side of the highway.
