The Ultimate Bucket List For Anyone In New Mexico Who Loves Waterfall Hikes
Hiking is an incredible pastime in the Land of Enchantment and it’s not hard to see why. Our hiking trails are some of the best ways to see all of the beautiful scenery New Mexico has to offer, and they often hold many hidden natural oases. This is the ultimate guide for anyone who loves a hike with the sound of rushing water in the background. These waterfall hikes have the ultimate payoff and have some of the best nature views in all of New Mexico. Plus, each waterfall is incredibly unique. Let’s check the best hikes in New Mexico off your bucket list because they’re absolutely gorgeous.
Per the name, this hike to Bridal Veil Falls is full of grand views. This loop trail in the Lincoln National Forest isn't short by any means at over seven miles long, but it's not too difficult if you can keep going. When you reach the end, you'll find the beautiful 45-foot-tall waterfall that is Bridal Veil Falls.
Bridal Veil Falls, 10-20358, Alamogordo, NM 88310, USA
This out-and-back trail near Taos Ski Valley in the Carson National Forest isn't as difficult as the nearby Wheeler Peak, but at 3.7 miles, it's not too easy either. The altitude is quite high, so be prepared if you're not used to the change in air quality. The beautiful waterfall is on the far end of the lake, so make sure to cross over and see it for yourself. This waterfall hike is surrounded by some of the most amazing scenery in New Mexico.
Williams Lake Trail, Taos Ski Valley, NM 87525, USA
At just under a mile long, this easy hike won't take too much time, but there's so much to see. This hike is perfect for the whole family, and the kids will be fascinated by the surrounding forests and rock formations. Once you get to the end, you'll find incredible views of Jemez Falls. The serene water falls down upon the rocks, offering a relaxing atmosphere. This is one of the best hikes in New Mexico and one of our favorite waterfall hiking trails in the Lake of Enchantment.
Also within the astounding Carson National Forest, this hike has the ultimate payoff but also has little payoffs along the way. At over 10-miles long, this moderate hike leads to a hidden lake, but upon the trail are many creeks and waterfalls. This hike is lengthy and you'll gain over 2,000 feet in elevation, but the beautiful scenery and sounds of rushing water make it so worth the trek. You can learn more about the Lost Lake Trail on the AllTrails website.
Editor's note: As of April 2022, the Rio En Medio Falls Trail is closed due to fire damage and we will not be updating information on this hiking trail. However, make sure to check out the other waterfall hikes on our list!
This waterfall hike is hiding in Santa Fe River State Park and is perfect any day. This is a quick, easy hike at 4-miles long, but the waterfall that you'll cross over is so relaxing and beautiful. You may want to get there early as there is limited parking at the trailhead.
Most New Mexicans know about the hot springs in the Santa Fe National Forest, but did you know that there are beautiful waterfalls along the hike to them? The trail is just over three miles long and the sound of rushing water will relax you the whole way. Once you get to the end, you’ll find beautiful natural pools to take a dip in.
This easy canyon hike near Las Cruces is absolutely beautiful and leads to a natural waterfall. After the rain, this waterfall is roaring with life and offers an incredible view. At only three miles long, this hike is perfect for people of all abilities and the stone rock with rushing streams is a one-of-a-kind sight. Watch out for mule deer as they inhabit the canyon.
Soledad Canyon Road, Soledad Canyon Rd, Las Cruces, NM, USA
This tiny hike is actually atop the gorgeous Sitting Bulls Falls. Many come to the falls to swim in the natural pool beneath, but if you climb up high, you'll find a short half-mile trail with some incredible vantage points.
At the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, inside the Pueblo of Nambe, you'll find the astounding Nambe Falls. Inside, there is a lower trail and upper trail to choose from, and both are only a quarter-mile long. The upper trail offers expansive views on rocky terrain, while the lower trail has you wading through the small pools. No matter what you choose, the sight of the falls are amazing.
Nambe Falls, New Mexico 87506, USA
Have you been on any of these amazing waterfall hikes in New Mexico? Which is your favorite? Let us know in the comments! And 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 15, 2022
Courtnie Erickson
What are some of the best scenic hikes in New Mexico?
It is almost impossible to narrow down the list of the best scenic hikes in New Mexico. Everywhere you go in the Land of Enchantment, you will be greeted with inspiring and jaw-dropping beauty. However, if we had to choose some of the most beautiful scenic hikes in the state, the Jemez Falls Trail would be at the top of the list. This waterfall hike is less than one mile and will take you through some beautiful terrain. Once you reach the falls, give yourself plenty of time to wade in the water and just sit back and admire the falls.
When searching for kid-friendly hikes around New Mexico, head to White Sands National Park. Here, you will find the Interdune Boardwalk Trail. This easy and accessible hiking trail in New Mexico will take you around a small section of the park, allowing you to see some of the gorgeous sand dunes. Try to time your hike just right so you can capture a gorgeous sunrise or sunset as you hike.
If you don’t know where to start when searching for some of the best hiking trails in New Mexico, that’s not a problem! We have created this list of 12 scenic hikes, one for every month of the year. This will give you a great starting point to help you tackle some of the best hiking trails in the Land of Enchantment. So, grab your hiking boots, and let’s get going!
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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.
