5 Trails Where You Can Enjoy A Quiet, Remote Hike In New Mexico
In the mood for a bit of solitude? There are few remedies better for relieving stress than heading out into nature, where you can focus on just you, the sounds of birds, and watching trees gently swaying in the breeze. If you’re looking for a trail that’s off the beaten path and can almost certainly guarantee a quiet retreat into nature, then you’ll plan a trek along one of these five hiking trails in New Mexico.
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Located out in the remote Pecos Wilderness, you'll see some incredible views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains on this trail. Begin at the Iron Gate Campground near Cowles and trek nearly five miles along a narrow trail. Keep in mind the first part of this trail is a little steep and there is not much shade for a majority of the trail.
Trail length: 9.8 miles
Trail information: AllTrails
Located just west of the Agua Piedra Campground near Tres Ritos, this trail is steep but has lovely views with very few visitors. Depending on the season, you may find the lake a little on the drier side but you'll still have a first-class view of the mountains and wildflowers all around.
Trail length: 4.1 miles
Trail information: AllTrails
3. Little Cherry Creek Trail (Gila National Forest)
Gila National Forest is known for its remote, wild landscape, so it's an ideal location to find some peace and quiet. This particular trail sits a little ways off State Route 15 and follows Little Cherry Creek, which runs seasonally. If you happen to catch the creek during its dry season, don't worry — there are still plenty of beautiful views of the forest and rock formations along the way.
Trail length: 7.9 miles
Trail information: AllTrails
4. The Narrows via Fillmore Canyon Trail (Organ Mountains)
Looking for a quieter alternative to the popular Dripping Springs Trail? This trail sits just a few minutes north of Dripping Springs and has views that are just as spectacular. Start at the La Cueva Picnic Area and be prepared for a hike that is almost entirely uphill. However, you will enjoy seeing and appreciating the rugged Organ Mountains up-close.
Trail length: 4.9 miles
Trail information: AllTrails
5. Valley of Dreams Loop (A-Shi-Sle-Pah Wilderness)
If you want to almost practically guarantee finding yourself the sole human for miles, then head out to the A-Shi-Sle-Pah Wilderness. The badlands here are a bit challenging to find but the otherworldly rock formations found here make the trek absolutely worth the effort. This trail leads you to some of the most impressive hoodoos in the area, so make sure to pack your camera along with plenty of water.
Trail length: 3.7 miles
Trail information: AllTrails
Have you had a chance to hike on one of these picturesque trails? Be sure to let us know about your experience and if you have another trail you love to hike for a little peace and quiet.
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.
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