Italianos Canyon Trail #59

Area Status: Open
a trail through a grove of trees with bright green leaves
Italianos Trail. USDA Forest Service Photo.

The Italianos trail is 3.5 miles long. The trail is open for the following uses: Hiking, Horseback Riding and Snowshoeing.

Access:

Trail begins 3 miles east from the Upper Cuchilla Campground, located on NM State Highway 150 on the way to Taos Ski Valley.  Parking is available at the trailhead located at the end of short access road.

Attractions and Considerations:

Mixed conifers characterize this 3.5 mile trail located on the south facing slope of the Rio Hondo Canyon.  Like most trails in this area, Italianos Trail follows the canyon bottom most of the time, gaining 2,800 feet in elevation.  For this reason avalanche hazard during the winter and early spring is a special consideration.  Water is available along the entire length of the canyon but should be properly treated before consumption.  For short trips, take a supply of water from home or other domestic source.  Day hiking, backpacking, horse riding as well as back country camping is permitted along the entire length of the trail, If you pack it in, please pack it out.  Motorized vehicle use is not allowed.  This trail provides access to Lobo Peak, Flag Mountain and Gold Hill.

Map of Italianos Canyon Trail #59

At a Glance

Current Conditions: Work in progress. Piles from thinning are visible along the trail. Learn more about the project and the Wildfire Crisis Strategy's Enchanted Circle Landscape.
Information Center: For more information contact:  Questa Ranger District.

Activities

Day Hiking

Difficulty Level: Difficult

Backpacking

Horse Riding

Difficulty Level: Difficult

Recreation Areas

Recreation Activities

Featured Events

Location

 
  Area/Length : 
3.5 miles

  Elevation : 
8,700 feet - 11,400 feet