This 6-Mile Trail in New Mexico’s Santa Fe National Forest Is Worth the Climb

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, there are beautiful hiking trails in New Mexico for all levels. If you’re looking for a challenging hike with a great payoff, the Atalaya Mountain Trail in the Santa Fe National Forest never disappoints. It’s just over six miles long and ascends nearly 1,800 feet to the top of a mountain, where you’ll enjoy 360-degree views of the surrounding landscape. 

Challenging hikes don’t necessarily have to be long. There’s a big grey area between a moderate hike and a multi-day backpacking trip, and the Atalaya Mountain Trail is proof of that. Spanning roughly six miles, this rewarding adventure typically takes most people about four hours to complete. That means if you start early enough, you’ll still have most of your day left after you’re finished. 

Situated near downtown Santa Fe, the trail is an ideal destination for visitors who want to enjoy the local scenery without having to drive too far. Even though it isn’t a remote hike, the summit is high enough that you can’t hear any road noise. It’s the best of both worlds: a convenient location that feels like another planet. 

The trail forks off into a steeper and easier route. Both lead to the summit, leaving the choice up to you whether you want to tone down the difficulty a bit. Even the easier route has steep areas, so you'll get a nice challenge either way. As soon as you step onto the trail, you'll leave the world behind and enter a dense forest filled with native desert plants and wildlife. Keep an eye out for flowering cacti in the late spring and early summer; their colorful blooms are stunning.

The trail stays flat just long enough for you to get your bearings before beginning a rapid ascent. Along the way, you'll be treated to gorgeous views of the towering hillsides covered in lush greenery. Then, when you finally reach the top, there are no words to describe the sweeping vistas of the mountains and Santa Fe. Take a moment to sit and admire the beautiful scene before starting your return hike.

You can hike the Atalaya Mountain Trail any time of year. The best time to go really depends on what you’re looking for. Spring and summer tend to be the busiest seasons because visibility at the summit is at its best. That being said, get an early start and bring plenty of water if you plan on visiting during the warmer months. Fall and winter have their own allure, even if you can’t see as far into the distance. The vibrant autumn leaves are stunning, and during the winter, snow transforms the landscape into a winter wonderland. Winter hiking is a bit more technical, though, so it may not be the best choice for beginners.

Parking for the Atalaya Mountain Trail is located at St. John’s College; the entrance and trailhead are clearly marked. Visit AllTrails for more information about the Atalaya Mountain Trail, including current trail conditions. 

Have you ever hiked this challenging, yet rewarding, trail? What other hiking trails in New Mexico are difficult but worth the effort? Let us know by filling out this nomination form. We'd love to hear from you.

Feeling inspired? Try planning your own trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.