9 Laid Back Hikes In New Mexico With Amazing Views You’ll Need A Camera For
Hiking in the Land of Enchantment is definitely plentiful, but it can be tough to choose where to hike if you want to take it easy. Our outrageous mountains offer some of the most incredible photo-ops in the state, but not everyone has that kind of stamina. These are some of the best hikes in New Mexico, and they also offer some of the most surreal views without taking too much energy out of you. So no need to search for “stunning hiking trails near me.” This article has you covered. Instead, lace up your hiking boots, and pack your camera, because you’ll want to capture these outstanding views to keep.
This incredible trail is located near Capulin and offers breathtaking views of the Capulin National Monument which includes an extinct volcano. This 1.1-mile loop trail is paved and as easy as it gets, and lets you circle the rim of the inactive volcano, offering a truly one-of-a-kind hiking experience without taking hardly any effort. From the top, you can see Colorado, Oklahoma, and Texas! Although the trail is steep at times, it is one of the most kid-friendly hikes around New Mexico. So start planning your visit by reading more about Crater Rim Trail.
At just three miles long, you won’t get too tired as you embark on this loop hike in Santa Fe with incredible views. The trail is marked so that you'll never get lost. This hike will have you feeling way out in the wilderness, despite still being in the city. Throughout the trail you’ll find jaw dropping views that go on for miles and miles, and the best part is it won’t even wear you out. You’ll find the Dorothy Stewart Trail inside the Santa Fe National Forest. It's one of the best easy hikes in New Mexico, so check out the Dorothy Stewart Trail today.
Dorothy Stewart Trailhead, 960002829, Santa Fe, NM 87501, USA
No New Mexico hiking list would be complete without a trip to the White Sands National Monument. This surreal 1.8-mile loop trail will have you hiking through the sands for a truly amazing experience. The views are 360, but the short hike won’t take too much energy. This trail is clearly marked, so don’t worry about getting turned around. This stunning area is one of the most scenic trails in New Mexico, so learn more about the White Sands Backcountry Trail and plan your next visit.
This incredible trail located in the Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness and will make you feel like you’re on another planet. This hike is a bit off the beaten path, but at only 5.5-miles long and very little elevation, you can take in all of the surreal photo-ops of New Mexico’s badlands. It's truly one of the best hikes in New Mexico. So start planning your visit by reading more about the Bisti Badlands Trail.
Bisti / De-Na-Zin Wilderness Area, County Road 7297, Bloomfield, NM 87413, USA
This little trail up in the Lincoln National Forest is a 2.5-mile hidden gem of a hike. With the expansive forest views and White Sands in the distance, you’ll want to take this hike over and over again. This trail is beautiful all year, but make note that there can be snow in the winter months. Read more about the Osha Trail, then pencil in your next visit.
Osha Trail Road, Osha Trail Rd, Cloudcroft, NM 88317, USA
This fun and quick hike within the Petroglyph National Monument lets you trek in, around, and on top of volcanoes as you take in the amazing views around you. This 3.1-mile loop is a great boost for beginners to get their hike on while having amazing views of Albuquerque as it’s just outside of the city. Get more information about The Volcanoes Trail, and see if it's the right hike for you!
Volcanoes Trail, Volcanoes Trl, Albuquerque, NM, USA
This easy hike in the Santa Fe National Forest leads to a hot springs to dip in any time of year. At only four miles long, this hike won't take too much out of you while offering incredible views of rock formations and mountains along the way. Surrounded by the rushing water of nearby streams and falls, you'll find two natural hot springs to dip in at the end. Make sure to bring your swimming gear! Wow, this is definitely one of the best hikes in New Mexico. So start plan your visit by reading more about the McCauley Hot Springs Trail.
This 3.3-mile loop near Las Cruces is home to unrivaled beauty, and you’ll love every step you take. Along this easy canyon trail you’ll find waterfall, a historic structure, rock formations, and canyon views are second to none. Check out more on the Soledad Canyon Loop Trail, and then grab your hiking gear and give it a go.
Soledad Canyon Loop trailhead, Las Cruces, NM 88011, USA
At only half a mile long, this trail is as easy as it gets with the most incredible payoffs. You won’t be worn out when you reach the top of the world and take in the breathtaking views of the Sandia Mountains. In fact, you may even have energy for some cave exploring. You can find Sandia Man Cave off SR 165 in Las Huertas Canyon near Placitas, NM. Learn more about Sandia Man Cave Trail, and then check it out.
Las Huertas, Placitas, NM 87043, USA
These are truly some of the best hikes in New Mexico. What other beautiful and laid back hikes would you add to the list? We’d love to hear about where you go hiking in the comments!
Don’t forget to share photos from your hiking adventures with us in our New Mexico Nature Lovers Facebook group, or tag us on Instagram by tagging #onlyinnewmexico for a chance to be featured!
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The OIYS Visitor Center
best hikes in New Mexico
April 22, 2022
Jessica Bohl
What are some kid-friendly hikes around New Mexico?
New Mexico overflows with scenic, and sometimes, challenging hikes. But for those of you with kids, don’t despair. There are many kid-friendly hikes around New Mexico that would be perfect for you and your family. The Butterfly Trail at Bitter Lake National Wildlife Refuge in Roswell is one of those perfect family hikes. It is super short – only .25 miles and takes you through wetlands. The interpretative trail makes the hike a truly educational experience as your kids will learn about the area and its plants and wildlife. And bonus, there are a lot of butterflies!
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E Jamar is a published writer based in Milwaukee, WI. Despite being a Midwesterner at heart, you can often find them trekking throughout the states and discovering new hidden gems. When they're not traveling, you can find them discussing disability issues, cuddling their pug puppy, and checking out new local spots.
