hiking trails las cruces

Las Cruces, New Mexico, offers a diverse range of hiking trails for outdoor enthusiasts of all levels. From scenic mountain trails to tranquil river walks, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant desert city. Embark on an unforgettable hiking adventure and discover the natural beauty that Las Cruces has to offer.

Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument

Nestled on the eastern edge of Las Cruces, the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument encompasses a vast and rugged landscape of towering peaks, desert vistas, and hidden canyons. With over 496,000 acres to explore, this national monument offers a multitude of hiking trails for all skill levels.

Two popular trails within the monument are the Dripping Springs Natural Area and the Soledad Canyon Trail. The Dripping Springs Natural Area features a short and easy loop trail that leads to a series of natural springs and a seasonal waterfall. The Soledad Canyon Trail, on the other hand, is a moderate to strenuous hike that follows a scenic canyon with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting out, the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument offers an unforgettable hiking experience amidst the breathtaking beauty of the Chihuahuan Desert.

a) Dripping Springs Natural Area

Nestled within the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument, the Dripping Springs Natural Area offers a short and easy hiking trail that leads to a series of natural springs and a seasonal waterfall. This 1.5-mile loop trail is perfect for families and hikers of all skill levels.

As you follow the trail, you’ll be surrounded by a diverse array of desert plants and wildflowers. Keep an eye out for wildlife, as the area is home to a variety of birds, reptiles, and mammals. The highlight of the trail is the natural springs, which provide a refreshing respite from the desert heat. During the summer months, you may even be able to witness the seasonal waterfall.

Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a scenic picnic spot, the Dripping Springs Natural Area is a great choice for a day hike in Las Cruces. Just remember to bring plenty of water and sunscreen, as there is no shade along the trail.

b) Soledad Canyon Trail

For a more challenging hike in the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument, try the Soledad Canyon Trail. This 4.5-mile out-and-back trail offers stunning views of the desert landscape and the towering peaks of the Organ Mountains.

The trail begins at the Dripping Springs Natural Area and follows Soledad Canyon, a narrow gorge with sheer rock walls and lush vegetation. As you ascend the canyon, you’ll cross several stream crossings and climb over large boulders. The trail is well-maintained, but it can be slippery when wet, so be sure to wear appropriate footwear.

The highlight of the Soledad Canyon Trail is the viewpoint at the end of the canyon, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and desert. This is a great spot to take a break and enjoy a picnic lunch. Just be sure to pack out everything you pack in, as there are no trash cans along the trail.

The Soledad Canyon Trail is a moderately challenging hike, but it’s well worth the effort for the stunning scenery. Just be sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen, as there is no shade along the trail.

La Cueva Loop Trail

For a shorter and easier hike, try the La Cueva Loop Trail, located just a few miles from downtown Las Cruces. This 1.5-mile loop trail is perfect for a leisurely walk or run, and it’s also a great option for families with young children.

The trail begins at the La Cueva Loop Trailhead and follows a paved path through a bosque, a riparian forest with cottonwood trees and willows. As you walk along the trail, you’ll see several small caves in the sandstone cliffs, which are home to a variety of wildlife, including bats and birds.

The La Cueva Loop Trail is a great place to spot birds, and it’s also a popular spot for picnicking and fishing. There are several picnic tables and grills located along the trail, and there’s also a fishing pier on the Rio Grande River.

The La Cueva Loop Trail is a great option for a quick and easy hike, and it’s also a great way to enjoy the natural beauty of the Rio Grande Valley.

a) La Cueva Loop Trailhead

The La Cueva Loop Trailhead is located on the west side of Las Cruces, just off of I-25. To get to the trailhead, take Exit 1 and head west on Lohman Avenue. Turn left onto Sonoma Ranch Boulevard, and then right onto La Cueva Loop Road. The trailhead will be on your left, just past the La Cueva Picnic Area.

The La Cueva Loop Trailhead has a large parking lot, as well as restrooms and picnic tables. There is also a kiosk at the trailhead with information about the trail and the surrounding area.

From the trailhead, you can hike the La Cueva Loop Trail in either direction. The trail is well-marked and easy to follow, and it’s a great option for hikers of all levels.

If you’re looking for a shorter hike, you can hike the loop in a clockwise direction. This will take you past the La Cueva Caves, which are home to a variety of wildlife. If you’re looking for a longer hike, you can hike the loop in a counterclockwise direction. This will take you along the Rio Grande River, where you can enjoy scenic views of the river and the surrounding mountains.

No matter which direction you choose to hike, the La Cueva Loop Trail is a great way to enjoy the natural beauty of the Rio Grande Valley.

Mesilla Valley Bosque State Park

Mesilla Valley Bosque State Park is a 4,200-acre park located on the banks of the Rio Grande River in Las Cruces, New Mexico. The park is home to a variety of plant and animal life, including cottonwood trees, willows, and a variety of birds and mammals.

The park offers a variety of hiking trails, ranging from easy to difficult. The most popular trail is the River Trail, which is a 4-mile loop trail that follows the Rio Grande River. The trail is relatively flat and easy to walk, making it a great option for families with young children.

Other popular trails in the park include the Cottonwood Trail, the Willow Trail, and the Bosque Loop Trail. These trails are all relatively short and easy to walk, and they offer a variety of scenic views of the park.

If you’re looking for a more challenging hike, you can try the La Cueva Trail. This trail is a 6-mile loop trail that climbs to the top of La Cueva Peak. The trail is steep and rocky in some places, but it offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

No matter what your fitness level, you’re sure to find a hiking trail that you’ll enjoy at Mesilla Valley Bosque State Park.

a) River Trail

The River Trail is a 4-mile loop trail that follows the Rio Grande River in Mesilla Valley Bosque State Park. The trail is relatively flat and easy to walk, making it a great option for families with young children and hikers of all fitness levels.

The trailhead for the River Trail is located at the Mesilla Valley Bosque State Park Visitor Center. From the visitor center, follow the signs for the River Trail. The trail will take you along the riverbank, through cottonwood and willow trees, and past a variety of birds and mammals.

Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy scenic views of the river, the surrounding mountains, and the city of Las Cruces. You may also see a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and rabbits.

The River Trail is a great place to go for a hike, a bike ride, or a picnic. The trail is also open to dogs on leashes.

Here are some tips for hiking the River Trail⁚

• Wear comfortable shoes and clothing.
• Bring plenty of water, especially if you’re hiking during the summer.
• Be aware of your surroundings and watch for wildlife.
• Stay on the trail to avoid disturbing the natural environment.
• Pack out what you pack in to help keep the park clean.

Aguirre Spring Trail

The Aguirre Spring Trail is a 6.5-mile out-and-back trail located in the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument. The trail is moderately challenging, with an elevation gain of 1,200 feet. The trailhead is located at the Aguirre Spring Campground.

The Aguirre Spring Trail follows a historic wagon route through the desert landscape. Along the way, you’ll pass by towering rock formations, ancient petroglyphs, and a variety of desert plants and animals.

The trail ends at Aguirre Spring, a natural spring that provides water for wildlife and hikers. The spring is a great place to take a break and enjoy the scenery.

Here are some tips for hiking the Aguirre Spring Trail⁚

• Wear sturdy hiking shoes and clothing.
• Bring plenty of water, especially if you’re hiking during the summer.
• Be aware of your surroundings and watch for wildlife.
• Stay on the trail to avoid disturbing the natural environment.
• Pack out what you pack in to help keep the park clean.

The Aguirre Spring Trail is a great place to experience the natural beauty of the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument. The trail is challenging but rewarding, and the scenery is breathtaking.