Posted in New Mexico Nature August 03, 2020 by

Nestled In The Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Lake Katherine Has Some Of The Clearest Water In New Mexico

New Mexico has no shortage of hiking trails. Whether you are looking for a quick trek to pass a lazy afternoon or a grueling backpacking trip, you can find it all in this enchanting landscape. If the latter option sounds like an adventure right up your alley, you’ll want to make the trek to Lake Katherine.

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Tucked away in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains of northern New Mexico, Lake Katherine is a true hidden gem.
Clay Junell/Flickr
Crystal clear waters easily mirror the sky while the mountain and pines encircle the lake.
Sitting at an elevation of 11,745 feet, the lake is considered one of the highest in the state.
Sarah Richter/Flickr
Depending on your location, you just might find yourself standing right at the point where the tree line ends.
The lake is accessible only by a grueling 15-mile hike via Winsor Trail.
Shane Lamb/AllTrails
The trail is well-defined yet demanding.
Euni S./AllTrails
The trail is steep, the elevation can feel daunting, and switchbacks near the lake can be intimidating to novice hikers. For that reason, you may want to consider upping your game on leg day in the weeks before this hike.
Your arrival at Lake Katherine, however, makes the trek entirely worth it.
Sarah Richter/Flickr
Enjoy the glassy waters and the refreshing scent of the pines surrounding the lake.
While it is possible to complete this trail in a day, that doesn't leave much time to enjoy the scenery and crisp mountain air before making it back to your vehicle before sundown.
Shane Lamb/AllTrails
For this particular hike, we suggest planning an overnight backpacking trip so you have time to rest, enjoy the lake, and a night under the stars.
Lake Katherine is located in the Santa Fe National Forest via the Winsor Trail #254.
Google Maps
You can find details about the trail and lake by visiting AllTrails.

Website: AllTrails

Be sure to follow the Leave No Trace principles to help preserve the wilderness for future generations. Keep in mind that camping sites and campfires must be located at least 200 feet from the lake.

Looking for a hike that is just a little less daunting? Round up the kiddos and head to Two Rivers Park in Ruidoso for an easy hike. Read more in Two Rivers Park In Ruidoso, New Mexico Is the Perfect Spot For An Effortless Hike And Picnic.

Address: Lake Katherine, New Mexico 87506, USA