The 7.3-Mile Hiking Trail in New Mexico That Is a Fall Foliage Wonderland

When fall arrives, my inner child becomes so happy with the prospect of the changing leaves, the cooler weather, and playing outside after a hot summer. You can probably infer that fall is my favorite time of the year, and you would be right! But I know I'm not alone. Most people enjoy these months when it's not too hot and certainly not too cold, and trails become crowded again, especially with those seeking a leaf-peeping adventure. If you would like to trek through a fall foliage wonderland this year, plan on taking this wonderfully scenic hiking trail in New Mexico's Pecos Wilderness.

Located within the Santa Fe National Forest, the Pecos Wilderness covers 223,000 acres. As you can imagine, hiking is abundant here. The landscape is a dramatic mix of canyons, rugged mountain peaks, mesas, meadows, and forests filled with Ponderosa pine, pinyon-juniper woodland, and aspen. The aspens are what hikers come to see during autumn.

One trail you may want to take during the peak fall foliage is Mora Flats through the Pecos Wilderness. Rated as a moderate trail, Mora Flats is 7.3 miles in length with an elevation gain of approximately 1,000 feet. Now, due to the length and difficulty of this trail, you may have it all to yourself. So, if peace and quiet are what you're after, you'll certainly find it!

During peak foliage season, you'll be amazed at how colorful the landscape gets around here. With yellows and oranges dotting the landscape, you'll certainly know that it's fall. Once you tackle the Mora Flats, it may become your favorite fall hike, especially once you see the aspens in their full golden hues. It's a remarkable sight!

One thing to note is that to get to the trailhead, you will most likely need a high-clearance vehicle as the road to get there is a bit rough. You are also allowed to camp at one of the backcountry campsites along the trail if you'd like. Just remember your camping gear.

Do you plan on taking this scenic hiking trail in New Mexico for some leaf peeping this fall? What other trails do you enjoy hiking during the fall? Let us know!

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