New Mexico is home to some of the most gorgeous, incredible hikes you’ll ever get to experience. Fortunately, you don’t have to hike several miles, climb steep mountains, or trek in the heat of the summer to enjoy the breathtaking views that the Land of Enchantment has to offer. We’ve put together a list of easy, short, and beautiful trails from all over the state that you need to explore this spring. Here are the seven of the best hikes in New Mexico.

1. Black Canyon Trail, Near Santa Fe
S Chavez/AllTrails
S Chavez/AllTrails
Santa Fe National Forest, New Mexico 87532, USA
AllTrails
When in the northern part of the Land of Enchantment, spend an afternoon on the 1.6-mile Black Canyon Loop Trail. You will walk through some gorgeous forest areas and you can enjoy some pretty spectacular views. Plus, if you want some peace and quiet, this is the hike for you.
2. Deadman Canyon Loop Trail, Near Sunspot
Ashley Penrod/AllTrails
Jorge Carrillo/AllTrails
Sunspot, NM 88349, USA
AllTrails
Keep your eyes open for wildlife as you explore the Deadman Canyon Loop Trail. Along this 2.9-mile trail near Cathey Peak, you will explore all types of terrain such as large, gorgeous meadows. This is a flat trail with little elevation gain, making it ideal for all hikers. This is certainly one of the most scenic hikes in New Mexico.
3. Tecolote Trail, Near Sandia Park
Ramesh Gopal/AllTrails
C Dale/AllTrails
Cibola National Forest, New Mexico 87825, USA
AllTrails
If you want to enjoy some incredible views and see many wildflower species, Tecolote Trail must be on your bucket list this spring. This 2.5-mile out-and-back trail is easy to climb. All hikers will find something they love on this short and easy trail in the Land of Enchantment. Take your time looking at the many wildflowers along the trail and capture some stunning images at the multiple scenic points as you climb.
4. Sandia Cave Trail, Near Placitas
Kevin Condit/AllTrails

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Wes Lynch/AllTrails
Sandia Cave, Placitas, NM 87043, USA
AllTrails
The Sandia Cave Trail is a 1.1-mile out-and-back trail that is not only easy and beautiful, but it takes you to some extraordinary sights. Climb the metal staircase at the end of the trail to the remarkable cave and spend some time exploring. The Sandia Cave Trail is the perfect spring hike for the entire family and it is one of the best hikes in New Mexico.
5. Sitting Bull Falls Trail, Near Whites City
Phillip Purpera/AllTrails
Arlo Hemphill/AllTrails
Sitting Bull Falls, New Mexico 88220, USA
AllTrails
If you are looking for a fast, easy hike with a gorgeous waterfall, Sitting Bull Falls Trail is a must this spring. This is a 0.7-mile out-and-back hike that the entire family will enjoy. This is a pretty popular climb so be prepared to see others as you trek. While the trail is fairly flat and easy to climb, the end is worth every minute and every step. At the end of the hike, you will come to the base of Sitting Bull Falls. Bring some water shoes and spend some time in the water before heading home. You can learn more about this scenic hike in New Mexico in this feature article.
6. La Ventana Arch, Near Grants
Amy Wilkins/AllTrails
Erika Gabauer/AllTrails
El Malpais, New Mexico 87020, USA
AllTrails
If you are looking for an easy hike in New Mexico that offers a picture-worthy finish and that you can complete in less than an hour, La Ventana Arch Trail is ideal. This 0.4-mile out-and-back trail will take you to the beautiful and stunning La Ventana Arch. A portion of the trail is paved, making it easy for those with mobility impairments and kids to enjoy the remarkable view. For more information on this beautiful hike, check out this article.
7. Crater Rim Trail, Capulin Volcano National Monument
Sarah Penshorn/AllTrails
David Gray/AllTrails
Capulin Volcano National Monument, New Mexico 88418, USA
AllTrails
Located at Capulin Volcano National Monument is the Crater Rim Trail. This 1.1-mile loop trail takes you around the rim of a volcanic crater. While this trail is fairly short, come prepared as there are several steep inclines you must climb. Also, there is a fee per vehicle to enter the Capulin Volcano National Monument.

Spring is the perfect time to get outdoors, enjoy some warm sunshine, and move your body. Are there any hikes you would add to this list? What do you think are the best hikes in New Mexico? Let us know in the comments!

For more easy trails in the Land of Enchantment, here are 12 incredible hikes that are under 5 miles.

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More to Explore

Best Hikes In New Mexico

Courtnie Erickson | March 18, 2022

What are some easy hikes in New Mexico that I should tackle in the spring?

There are many easy and kid-friendly hikes around New Mexico that are perfect any time of the year, but particularly during the spring months. One of our favorite spring hikes in the Land of Enchantment is the Sandia Man Cave Trail. This hiking trail is only half a mile long but features gorgeous views of the Sandia Mountains. You can also climb the metal staircase to the cave for a little more adventure.

We also highly recommend the Jemez Falls Trail. In fact, this is one of the best hikes in New Mexico. This is a short and easy trail, and it won’t take you very long to reach the falls. However, once you do, you’ll be glad you made the effort. Take some time to climb and explore around the falls or if you’re willing to brave some chilly water, you may consider wading in the small pool at the top.

When in the southern part of the state and searching for “hiking trails near me,” we recommend adding the Interdune Boardwalk Trail to your bucket list. This hiking trail is found at White Sands National Park. This is a boardwalk hike that is short but gives you incredible views of the sand, sunsets, and even some wildlife. This is not only one of the best hikes in White Sands National Park but also in the entire state.

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