This Easy Hike Proves That New Mexico Is Home To Unrivaled Beauty

One of the best ways to experience New Mexico's natural beauty is by getting out there and hiking around in it! Here's an easy trail that includes a waterfall, a historic structure and some unparalleled beauty.

The Soledad Canyon Loop Trail is located near Las Cruces.

You'll find the trailhead by traveling on University Avenue until you reach Soledad Canyon Road. Follow the road until the pavement ends, then you'll see the parking lot.

This trail is well-marked and suitable for most hikers.

The total elevation climb is only 524 feet over the 3.3-mile loop.

The scenery along the trail is spectacular.

You'll enjoy some incredible views, interesting desert plants and cool rock formations along the way.

Depending on the time of year. the canyon may be lush and green.

For some especially pretty scenery, hike in the spring months, when everything is green.

Take time to stop and enjoy the smallest bits of beauty here.

You'll definitely want to bring your camera along on this hike, and allow plenty of time to catch some great shots.

About halfway down the trail, you'll come to a fork. Keep going straight in order to see the rock house and waterfall.

The remnants of this rock house are interesting and worth checking out.

This hike includes a unique blend of natural beauty and signs of human habitation.

After you pass the rock house, you'll come to the waterfall.

During winter and spring months, the waterfall typically has plenty of water; during the hot, summer months it may be completely dry.

Complete your hike by returning to the fork in the trail and finishing the loop.

As always, make sure that you have plenty of water with you. The trail is mostly flat, but the gravel can be loose, so wear a pair of sturdy shoes or hiking boots.

Have you hiked the Soledad Canyon Loop trail? Tell us about your experience! When you're ready for another hike, check out this hike that leads you to a magnificent archaeological treasure.