7 Totally Kid-Friendly Hikes In New Mexico That Are 1 Mile And Under
There is nothing better than spending time outdoors with the entire family. Whether you have toddlers, children, or even teenagers, there are easy hiking trails in the Land of Enchantment just waiting to be explored. If you’re looking for a super short trail that children of any age can enjoy while being exposed to new experiences and learning opportunities, then you’ll want to check out these trails that are one mile or less! These are some of the best hikes in New Mexico!
1. Boca Negra Upper Canyon at Petroglyph National Monument, Albuquerque
This particularly short trail is one of the more popular spots at this national monument since it allows visitors to easily see the petroglyphs and the rocky landscape, plus a picnic area is located here as well. Note there are stairs on the trail, so you may need to be a little patient while helping children descend.
Ready to see what life is like for plants and animals along the Rio Grande? Pay a visit to this nature center in Albuquerque and see what kinds of beautiful sights you can see on the trail! By the way, if your kids don't mind a trail that's longer, then connect this with the River Loop Trail for a 1.2-mile hike.
Do you want to show your children that wetlands certainly do exist in New Mexico? All year, you can embark on this short hike at the wildlife refuge. The interpretive trail offers details about the area, plants, and insects found here. Plus, your children will enjoy seeing the butterflies flying all around.
Located about 45 minutes west of Grants, this short trail is fully paved and easily accessible for both wheelchairs and strollers. Along the way to see centuries of inscriptions left behind by previous generations of Indigenous peoples and settlers, you'll also pass a pool that was once a welcome oasis for travelers in the past.
Paved and short, this is perfect for families as the "trail" is a level boardwalk that shows the lovely views of the dunes but keeps your kids from touching every little thing they see. You'll get to see some great little exhibits that detail what life is like on the dunes for plants and wildlife. This is not only one of our favorite trails, but it is also one of the best hikes in New Mexico.
This short interpretive trail will take you through the forested landscape in Cloudcroft. It's not only a short trail perfect for the whole family to enjoy but if there are any members of your party who are visually impaired, the signs are also written in braille.
The graded dirt trail leads you between Pueblo Bonito and Chetro Ketl in Chaco Canyon. You'll have the opportunity to see some petroglyphs from the trail and an inexpensive trail guide from the visitor center will provide more details about each image and how they may be interpreted.
Chaco Culture National Historical Park, New Mexico, USA
How many of these easy trails in New Mexico have you had the opportunity to hike before? Are there any others you would suggest that families can enjoy together?
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The OIYS Visitor Center
Best hikes in New Mexico
March 31, 2022
Courtnie Erickson
What are the most scenic hikes in New Mexico?
The Land of Enchantment offers dozens of hiking trails with amazing payoffs. Some of these scenic hikes can be a little difficult, but there are many trails that are easy, beautiful, and unforgettable. One of our favorite easy hikes in New Mexico, which also offers breathtaking natural beauty, is Jemez Falls Trail. This hiking trail is less than one mile and takes you to the magical Jemez Falls. This is a terrific trail if you want to bring young children or you just want an enjoyable and relaxing afternoon adventure.
The Dorothy Stewart Trail is another scenic hike that you must add to your bucket list. At only 3 miles, this trail isn’t long or difficult. This trail is part of the Dale Ball Trail System near Santa Fe and is one of the more quiet trails in the area. You will not only enjoy solitude as you hike, but the views are truly remarkable.
What are some hiking trails in White Sands National Park?
White Sands National Park is truly one-of-a-kind and the trails allow you to explore much of what this park has to offer. There are only five hiking trails in the national park but each one offers something spectacular. One of the best easy hikes in White Sands National Park is the Interdune Boardwalk. This fully-accessible hiking trail is 0.4-miles long and will teach you all about the plants, wildlife, geology, and other unique features that you'll find in the park. Kids and adults alike will enjoy walking along this boardwalk.
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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.
