This 2.5-Mile Trail in New Mexico Leads to a Hidden Cave

Hiking trails can certainly lead you to extraordinary destinations. From majestic waterfalls to historic sites, and from hikes across bridges to cave trails, you will find many extraordinary hiking trails throughout this great state. And if you are especially interested in taking a hike to a cave, well, you're in luck. This particular cave trail may, in fact, be the best hike near Las Cruces, New Mexico.

This cave is even more intriguing because it was reportedly the legendary hideout for a major figure of the 19th-century Southwest: Geronimo, a renowned leader of the Apache people. What is now known as Geronimo's Cave is located in the Robledo Mountains Wilderness Area in the southeast corner of the state, near Las Cruces, New Mexico, and the trail that leads to it is one of our favorite hikes in the Land of Enchantment.

To get there, you'll take a 2.5-mile out-and-back trail that's rough in spots and gains a little less than 500 feet in elevation along its route. This earns it a moderately challenging rating from AllTrails. The trail leading to the cave covers some rugged terrain with loose rocks, so it's best to come prepared with the right hiking gear for this trail and its desert environment.

The hike to the cave is also exposed to the elements, with little to no shade for most of the distance. Do yourself a favor and wear a sun hat and sunscreen—and bring plenty of water. It can also get very windy here during certain times of the year, so keep that in mind as well. When you finally arrive at the cave, prepare to be in awe!

Legend has it that Geronimo and his band were being pursued by U.S. soldiers and eluded them by hiding in a cave and escaping through a hidden second entrance. This is believed to be "Geronimo's Cave," hence the moniker.

You can even go inside and explore the cave, but you'll want to have a fully charged headlamp or a strong flashlight with you—your phone won't cut it. Go ahead and explore—this is such a fascinating natural, historical, and, most likely, legendary wonder. Ready to keep exploring? You should also check out more of our picks for the best hikes in New Mexico to plan your next hiking adventures.