3 Airbnbs Near New Mexico’s Most Epic Waterfalls

With spring approaching, there's no better time than now to plan an epic waterfall hike in New Mexico. Are you ready to dust off your hiking boots and embark on a waterfall-chasing adventure? And if you'd like to turn your hiking trip into an overnight getaway surrounded by nature, I listed a few suggestions on Airbnbs near waterfall trails in New Mexico.

Epic Waterfall Trails in New Mexico

It may surprise you that New Mexico is home to many remarkable waterfalls, and you may be pleasantly surprised when you discover some of the state's most stunning cascades! Curious? Here are three relatively epic, yet easy, waterfall hikes to consider:

1. Jemez Falls Trail - Jemez Springs, NM

To get to the 70-foot Jemez Falls in Jemez Springs, New Mexico, you only need to trek a short distance. The Jemez Falls Trail is a mere 0.8 miles long and rated as easy on AllTrails. The trailhead, which starts at the campground, winds through the pine trees, providing much-needed shade on warm, sunny days.

When you arrive at the end of the trail, an overlook gives way to the views and sounds of the fall's rushing waters. At the top, feel free to dip your toes into the small pond. Due to the short, easy nature of this trail, it's perfectly kid-friendly, and you can even bring your dog as long as it remains leashed.

2. Sitting Bull Falls Trail - Carlsbad, NM

The trail to Sitting Bull Falls through the Lincoln National Forest is short at 0.8 miles but rated moderate due to its 239-foot elevation gain. Located at Sitting Bull Falls Recreation Area, there is a fee to enter; however, you'll have access to a picnic area with tables and grills, and there's even an ADA-accessible trail to an overlook with views of the falls. Sitting Bull Falls is an impressive set of 150-foot cascades with water falling into a pool below. This is one of the most family-friendly waterfall hikes in New Mexico, so bring the kids and dogs along.

3. Upper Frioles Falls Trail - Los Alamos, NM

Located within Bandelier National Monument, Falls Trail is a moderate 2.7-mile, out-and-back trek with an elevation gain of 311 feet. You'll start the journey near the visitor's center and ascend nearly 400 feet to Upper Frijoles Falls. This stunning 80-foot cascade is tucked between the towering walls of Frijoles Canyon. Between the waterfall and the views, this is one New Mexico waterfall hike to remember! And don't forget to explore some of the other trails of Bandelier National Monument.

Please note that there is a fee to enter Bandelier National Monument, or you can use your National Parks Pass. Find more details on the National Park Service website.

The Best Airbnbs Near These Hikes

While day trips are always a great way to enjoy these hikes with a waterfall payoff, why not take an overnight getaway instead? After all, it's a convenient way to visit these cascades more than once. Here are the best Airbnbs located close to these waterfall hiking trails:

1. Cozy Forest Escape - Jemez Springs, NM

• Closest waterfall: Jemez Falls
• Outstanding amenities: Hot tub, fireplace, washer and dryer, and fire pit.

Retreat to the Ponderosa pine forest by booking the Cozy Forest Escape with the Valles Caldera National Preserve in its backyard. Located on 1.5 acres, this home offers a private, serene escape into nature. It's also close to numerous natural attractions, including Fenton Lake for fishing and Jemez Falls for waterfall chasing, as well as hiking trails.

Featuring modern amenities, this two-bedroom, two-bathroom home can accommodate up to six guests. The open-concept kitchen and living room area is the social gathering spot of the house, but if you'd like some time to yourself, head outside to the deck to take in the pine forest views. There's also a hot tub for a relaxing soak after a day of exploring Jemez Springs and all it has to offer.

2. Tiny Home on the Range - Carlsbad, NM

• Closest waterfall: Sitting Bull Falls
• Outstanding amenities: A/C, washer and dryer, and covered patio.

For views of both desert and mountains, make your home base the Tiny Home on the Range for a few nights. Located just a few miles from Carlsbad Caverns National Park and Black River Recreation Area, staying here puts you close to some of the state's most adventurous areas. To get to the property, you'll need to drive 1.5 miles down a dirt road, so make sure you have a vehicle that can handle it. Once you arrive at the studio set on an idyllic farm property, you'll fall in love with the views of El Capitan, Guadalupe Peak, and Carlsbad Caverns National Park. Not only are the views abundant, but the wildlife is as well.

This studio home, set on 35 acres of open land, features one queen bed and one queen-sized pullout couch, accommodating four guests. You can walk around the property and meet the resident free-range farm animals, including cows, chickens, and pigs. If you'd like, you can arrange with the owners ahead of time to stock the kitchen with free-range eggs from the farm and homemade bread.

3. Stylish 3-Bedroom Home - Los Alamos, NM

• Closest waterfall: Upper Frioles Falls
• Outstanding amenities: Deck with a grill, local art murals, keyless entry, and a designated workspace.

For those who appreciate both nature and art, this one's for you! Close to downtown Los Alamos, a golf course, the Santa Fe National Forest and its hiking trails, and Ashley Pond, the central location of this stylish Airbnb puts you within striking distance of both city and nature. Bandelier National Monument, home to Upper Frijoles Falls, is approximately 16 miles away.

Featuring three bedrooms, including one with a king bed and one with a queen, and two bathrooms, up to eight guests can stay here. The spacious, family-friendly home offers a bright, airy feel and some color, with two stunning art murals by local artists. You won't regret making this highly rated Guest Favorite Airbnb your home away from home when visiting Los Alamos and Upper Frijoles Falls at Bandelier National Park.

Are you ready to book your stay-and-hike getaway in New Mexico? For more nature-inspired trips around the state, try using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.