7 Cool And Calming Hikes To Take In New Mexico To Help You Reflect On The Year Ahead
With a new year comes new possibilities. And for many, one of the best ways to reflect on those probabilities is by partaking in a hike in nature. Whether you’re new to hiking or a seasoned expert, you’ll definitely want to check out these seven trails right here in New Mexico. Each is fairly easy with gorgeous views, so you can focus more on your pending goals and less on catching your breath between strides.
Take advantage of trekking this trail while the temperatures are cool. Located a short drive from Las Cruces, this trail measures 2.7 miles overall and you will absolutely fall in love with the views here. Plus, depending on the weather, you just might spot a seasonal waterfall.
This short trail is heavily used in the summer and fall months but lessens once those freezing temperatures arrive. If you're lucky, you just might get to see the waterfall frozen over!
You won't find too many people on this trail so it's perfect for a quiet morning walk when visiting El Malpais National Monument near Grants. Lava Falls Trails measures just under one mile and seeing the remnants of ancient rivers of fire that date back about 2 million years. It kind of puts things into perspective!
Flat and picturesque, the small trails here combine into about 1.5 miles as they follow the Rio Grande, loop around marshes, and introduce you to some of New Mexico's stunning wetlands. This is an easy hike so you can easily drift into your own thoughts.
Measuring a mere 2.2 miles, this trail is great for beginners and also a popular trail. It's a little quieter in the winter months and features some beautiful snowy scenery.
If you get nervous at the idea of venturing too far from town or being too far removed from people, then you just might enjoy this 3.2-mile hike outside Red River. It features gorgeous scenery from the base of the mountain on an easy-to-follow trail.
This hike totals four miles and even with a bit of elevation gain, it's still a fairly easy hike for most people. During the winter, you may want to wear snowshoes or bring other winter hiking gear since the snow can get quite deep as you get nearer the lake. It's still an amazing sight and adventure!
Monica is a Diné (Navajo) freelance writer and photographer based in the Southwest. Born in Gallup and raised in Phoenix, she is Tódich'ii'nii (Bitter Water People) and Tsi'naajinii (Black Streak Wood People). Monica is a staff writer for Only In Your State, photo editor for The Mesa Legend, and previously a staff writer for The Navajo Post. You can reach her at monica.d.spencer@gmail.com.
