Santa Fe
 

Recreation

Rising from deserts, meadows and grasslands, the mesas, canyons and peaks of the Santa Fe National Forest are a place for re-creation. Whether you are gathering with family or gathering pinon nuts or firewood, the forest is a "querencia" - a special place. The past meets the present in this environment where year-round day use, water-focused recreation and trail opportunities offer a refuge in the cool mountain air. Thousands of cultural and archaeological sites reflect the Santa Fe National Forest’s rich historical heritage and the many cultures that value this landscape.

If you are interested in a specific Ranger District, click "Find an Area" on the right. Click on the Ranger District name or Recreational Area for an overview, or the + for a listing of sites and trails.

 

Know before you go...

If you plan to visit the Santa Fe National Forest, know before you go and "be outdoor safe."

  • Many recreation sites are closed for the winter. Check the weather forecast and be prepared for seasonal fluctuations. Use good judgment and basic safety precautions when hiking, fishing or camping. 
  • Forest roads susceptible to damage under severe weather conditions are closed for the winter to protect public health and safety, infrastructure and natural resources.
  • Six group campgrounds – Clear Creek, Paliza, Jemez Falls, San Antonio, Holy Ghost and Jacks Creek Group Campgrounds – will remain closed in alignment with current federal guidance and New Mexico state public health orders limiting gatherings of more than five people. Trailheads are still accessible.
  • Please use designated trash cans only for garbage. If trash cans are full, follow Leave No Trace principles by packing out your garbage and disposing of it at home.

Many dispersed activities on all national forests are still allowed, including hiking and dispersed camping. Please follow all social distancing guidelines and local guidance. 

Recreation Map

Map showing recreational areas. Map Information

Recreation Conditions Report

 Area Name Status Area Conditions
Agua Fria Trail #233 Open to Visitor Most trails on the Santa Fe National Forest are open. Please follow CDC guidance for social distancing and Leave No Trace outdoor ethics for caring for public lands.
Agua Sarca Trail #278 Open to Visitor Most trails on the Santa Fe National Forest are open. Please follow CDC guidance for social distancing and Leave No Trace outdoor ethics for caring for public lands.
Aspen Basin Campground Open to Visitor Limited services may be available. Please be prepared and recreate responsibly. Park only in designated areas. Avoid crowded areas to maintain social distancing and comply with state public health orders limiting group size. Visit our Know Before You Go page for more information.
Aspen Vista Picnic Site Open to Visitor Please follow CDC guidance for social distancing and Leave No Trace outdoor ethics for caring for public lands.
Baker Flat Picnic Site Closed to Visitor Limited services may be available. Please be prepared and recreate responsibly. Park only in designated areas. Avoid crowded areas to maintain social distancing and comply with state public health orders limiting group size. Visit our Know Before You Go page for more information.
Baldy Trail #176 Open to Visitor Most trails on the Santa Fe National Forest are open. Please follow CDC guidance for social distancing and Leave No Trace outdoor ethics for caring for public lands.
Battleship Rock Picnic Site Open to Visitor
Beattys Trail #25 Open to Visitor Please follow CDC guidance for social distancing and Leave No Trace outdoor ethics for caring for public lands. Trail has been cleared of downfall between the trail head and Beatty's Flats. New trees may come down anytime. Equestrian users are encouraged to carry a hand saw should a trail become impassable.
Big Eddy Boat Take-out Open to Visitor Please follow CDC guidance for social distancing and Leave No Trace outdoor ethics for caring for public lands.
Big Pine Picnic Site Open to Visitor Limited services may be available. Please be prepared and recreate responsibly. Park only in designated areas. Avoid crowded areas to maintain social distancing and comply with state public health orders limiting group size. Visit our Know Before You Go page for more information.
Big Tesuque Campground Open to Visitor Limited services may be available. Please be prepared and recreate responsibly. Park only in designated areas. Avoid crowded areas to maintain social distancing and comply with state public health orders limiting group size. Visit our Know Before You Go page for more information.
Black Canyon Campground Closed to Visitor Limited services may be available. Please be prepared and recreate responsibly. Park only in designated areas. Avoid crowded areas to maintain social distancing and comply with state public health orders limiting group size. Visit our Know Before You Go page for more information.
Blue Bell Ridge Trail #212 Open to Visitor Please follow CDC guidance for social distancing and Leave No Trace outdoor ethics for caring for public lands.
Blue Bell Trail #10 Open to Visitor Please follow CDC guidance for social distancing and Leave No Trace outdoor ethics for caring for public lands.
Bluffs Fishing Site Open to Visitor Open Year Round. Please follow CDC guidance for social distancing and Leave No Trace outdoor ethics for caring for public lands.
Bob Grounds Trail #270 Open to Visitor Please follow CDC guidance for social distancing and Leave No Trace outdoor ethics for caring for public lands. Trail has been cleared of downfall between the 270/249 junction and the 270/252 junction. New trees may come down anytime. Equestrian users are encouraged to carry a hand saw should a trail become impassable.
Bordo del Medio Trail #252 Open to Visitor Please follow CDC guidance for social distancing and Leave No Trace outdoor ethics for caring for public lands. Trail has been cleared of downfall. New trees may come down anytime. Equestrian users are encouraged to carry a hand saw should a trail become impassable.
Borrego Mesa Campground Open to Visitor Limited services may be available. Please be prepared and recreate responsibly. Park only in designated areas. Avoid crowded areas to maintain social distancing and comply with state public health orders limiting group size. Visit our Know Before You Go page for more information.
Burro Basin Trail #216 Open to Visitor Please follow CDC guidance for social distancing and Leave No Trace outdoor ethics for caring for public lands. Trail has not been cleared of downfall.
Cave Creek Trail #288 Open to Visitor Please follow CDC guidance for social distancing and Leave No Trace outdoor ethics for caring for public lands. Trail has been cleared of downfall. New trees may come down anytime. Equestrian users are encouraged to carry a hand saw should a trail become impassable.
Chavez Canyon Boat Launch Open to Visitor Please follow CDC guidance for social distancing and Leave No Trace outdoor ethics for caring for public lands.
Clear Creek Campground Closed to Visitor Limited services may be available. Please be prepared and recreate responsibly. Park only in designated areas. Avoid crowded areas to maintain social distancing and comply with state public health orders limiting group size. Visit our Know Before You Go page for more information.
Clear Creek Campground Group Area Closed to Visitor Closed indefinitely to protect public health and align with state and local measures to contain the COVID-19 outbreak. Visit www.fs.usda.gov/goto/r3/safety for more information.
Clear Creek Picnic Site Closed to Visitor Limited services may be available. Please be prepared and recreate responsibly. Park only in designated areas. Avoid crowded areas to maintain social distancing and comply with state public health orders limiting group size. Visit our Know Before You Go page for more information.
Cowles Campground Closed to Visitor Limited services may be available. Please be prepared and recreate responsibly. Park only in designated areas. Avoid crowded areas to maintain social distancing and comply with state public health orders limiting group size. Visit our Know Before You Go page for more information.
Cowles Ponds Fishing Site Open to Visitor Please follow CDC guidance for social distancing and Leave No Trace outdoor ethics for caring for public lands.
Coyote Canyon Camping Area Open to Visitor Limited services may be available. Please be prepared and recreate responsibly. Park only in designated areas. Avoid crowded areas to maintain social distancing and comply with state public health orders limiting group size. Visit our Know Before You Go page for more information.
Dark Canyon Fishing Site Open to Visitor Please follow CDC guidance for social distancing and Leave No Trace outdoor ethics for caring for public lands. Watch out for pedestrians and children as this site can be crowded with over flow parking for Spence Hot Springs.
Dockweiler Trail #259 Open to Visitor Please follow CDC guidance for social distancing and Leave No Trace outdoor ethics for caring for public lands. Trail has been cleared of downfall between the 259/288 junction and the 259/257 junction. New trees may come down anytime. Equestrian users are encouraged to carry a hand saw should a trail become impassable. The segment between the 259/257 and the 259/245 junctions is difficult to navigate thru the Jaroso Fire scar. A project to work on this section is scheduled for 2019.
E.V. Long Campground Closed to Visitor Limited services may be available. Please be prepared and recreate responsibly. Park only in designated areas. Avoid crowded areas to maintain social distancing and comply with state public health orders limiting group size. Visit our Know Before You Go page for more information.
East Baldy Trail #275 Open to Visitor Please follow CDC guidance for social distancing and Leave No Trace outdoor ethics for caring for public lands. Trail has not been cleared of downfall.
El Porvenir Campground Closed to Visitor Limited services may be available. Please be prepared and recreate responsibly. Park only in designated areas. Avoid crowded areas to maintain social distancing and comply with state public health orders limiting group size. Visit our Know Before You Go page for more information.
El Porvenir Trail #247 Open to Visitor Please follow CDC guidance for social distancing and Leave No Trace outdoor ethics for caring for public lands. Trail has been cleared of downfall between the trailhead and the jucntion with the 223 connecter trail. New trees may fall across the trail at any time. Equestrian users are encouraged to carry a hand saw.
Field Tract Campground Closed to Visitor Limited services may be available. Please be prepared and recreate responsibly. Park only in designated areas. Avoid crowded areas to maintain social distancing and comply with state public health orders limiting group size. Visit our Know Before You Go page for more information.
Gascon Trail #239 Open to Visitor Please follow CDC guidance for social distancing and Leave No Trace outdoor ethics for caring for public lands. Trail has not been cleared of downfall.
Glorieta Baldy Lookout Closed to Visitor
Glorieta Baldy Trail #175 Open to Visitor Most trails on the Santa Fe National Forest are open. Please follow CDC guidance for social distancing and Leave No Trace outdoor ethics for caring for public lands. Trail has not been cleared of downfall.
Hamilton Mesa Trail #249 Open to Visitor Most trails on the Santa Fe National Forest are open. Please follow CDC guidance for social distancing and Leave No Trace outdoor ethics for caring for public lands. Trail has been cleared between Jack's Creek TH and the 249/239 junction. New trees may come down anytime. Equestrian users are encouraged to carry a hand saw should a trail become impassable.
Harvey Trail #218 Open to Visitor Most trails on the Santa Fe National Forest are open. Please follow CDC guidance for social distancing and Leave No Trace outdoor ethics for caring for public lands. Trail has not been cleared of downfall.
Hermits Peak Trail #223 Open to Visitor Please follow CDC guidance for social distancing and Leave No Trace outdoor ethics for caring for public lands. Trail has been cleared of downfall between the trail head and the junction with the 247 connecter trail. New trees may come down anytime. Equestrian users are encouraged to carry a hand saw should a trail become impassable.
Hollinger Trail #219 Open to Visitor Most trails on the Santa Fe National Forest are open. Please follow CDC guidance for social distancing and Leave No Trace outdoor ethics for caring for public lands.Trail has not been cleared of downfall.
Holy Ghost Campground Closed to Visitor Limited services may be available. Please be prepared and recreate responsibly. Park only in designated areas. Avoid crowded areas to maintain social distancing and comply with state public health orders limiting group size. Visit our Know Before You Go page for more information.
Holy Ghost Group Campground Closed to Visitor Closed indefinitely to protect public health and align with state and local measures to contain the COVID-19 outbreak. Visit www.fs.usda.gov/goto/r3/safety for more information.
Holy Ghost Trail # 283 Open to Visitor Most trails on the Santa Fe National Forest are open. Please follow CDC guidance for social distancing and Leave No Trace outdoor ethics for caring for public lands. Trail has not been cleared of downfall.
Iron Gate Campground Closed to Visitor Limited services may be available. Please be prepared and recreate responsibly. Park only in designated areas. Avoid crowded areas to maintain social distancing and comply with state public health orders limiting group size. Visit our Know Before You Go page for more information.
Jacks Creek Campground Closed to Visitor Limited services may be available. Please be prepared and recreate responsibly. Park only in designated areas. Avoid crowded areas to maintain social distancing and comply with state public health orders limiting group size. Visit our Know Before You Go page for more information.
Jacks Creek Group Campground Closed to Visitor Closed indefinitely to protect public health and align with state and local measures to contain the COVID-19 outbreak. Visit www.fs.usda.gov/goto/r3/safety for more information.
Jacks Creek Horse Camp Closed to Visitor Limited services may be available. Please be prepared and recreate responsibly. Park only in designated areas. Avoid crowded areas to maintain social distancing and comply with state public health orders limiting group size. Visit our Know Before You Go page for more information.
Jacks Creek Trail #257 Open to Visitor Please follow CDC guidance for social distancing and Leave No Trace outdoor ethics for caring for public lands. Trail has been cleared of dead fall between the 257/25 junction and Pecos Baldy Lake. New trees may fall across the trail at any time. Equestrian users are encouraged to carry a hand saw.
Jemez Falls Campground Closed to Visitor Loops 1, 2, and 4 are closed. Limited services may be available. Please be prepared and recreate responsibly. Park only in designated areas. Avoid crowded areas to maintain social distancing and comply with state public health orders limiting group size. Visit our Know Before You Go page for more information.
Jemez Falls Group Picnic Site Closed to Visitor Closed indefinitely to protect public health and align with state and local measures to contain the COVID-19 outbreak. Visit www.fs.usda.gov/goto/r3/safety for more information.
Jemez Falls Trailhead Open to Visitor Most trails on the Santa Fe National Forest are open. Please follow CDC guidance for social distancing and Leave No Trace outdoor ethics for caring for public lands.
Johnson Mesa Campground Closed to Visitor Limited services may be available. Please be prepared and recreate responsibly. Park only in designated areas. Avoid crowded areas to maintain social distancing and comply with state public health orders limiting group size. Visit our Know Before You Go page for more information.
La Cueva Picnic Site Closed to Visitor Limited services may be available. Please be prepared and recreate responsibly. Park only in designated areas. Avoid crowded areas to maintain social distancing and comply with state public health orders limiting group size. Visit our Know Before You Go page for more information.
La Junta Fishing Site Open to Visitor Open year round. Please follow CDC guidance for social distancing and Leave No Trace outdoor ethics for caring for public lands.
Lake Johnson Trail #267 Open to Visitor Most trails on the Santa Fe National Forest are open. Please follow CDC guidance for social distancing and Leave No Trace outdoor ethics for caring for public lands. Trail has been cleared of dead fall. New trees may fall across the trail at any time. Equestrian users are encouraged to carry a hand saw.
Lake Katherine Trail #242 Open to Visitor Most trails on the Santa Fe National Forest are open. Please follow CDC guidance for social distancing and Leave No Trace outdoor ethics for caring for public lands. Trail has been cleared of dead fall. New trees may fall across the trail at any time. Equestrian users are encouraged to carry a hand saw.
Larkspur Trail #260 Open to Visitor Most trails on the Santa Fe National Forest are open. Please follow CDC guidance for social distancing and Leave No Trace outdoor ethics for caring for public lands. Trail has been cleared of dead fall. New trees may fall across the trail at any time. Equestrian users are encouraged to carry a hand saw.
Las Casitas Fishing Site Open to Visitor Open year round. Please follow CDC guidance for social distancing and Leave No Trace outdoor ethics for caring for public lands.
Las Conchas Day Use Site Closed to Visitor Limited services may be available. Please be prepared and recreate responsibly. Park only in designated areas. Avoid crowded areas to maintain social distancing and comply with state public health orders limiting group size. Visit our Know Before You Go page for more information.
Las Dispensas Trail #222 Open to Visitor Most trails on the Santa Fe National Forest are open. Please follow CDC guidance for social distancing and Leave No Trace outdoor ethics for caring for public lands. Trail has not been cleared of dead fall.
Las Trampas Trail #240 Open to Visitor Most trails on the Santa Fe National Forest are open. Please follow CDC guidance for social distancing and Leave No Trace outdoor ethics for caring for public lands. Trail has not been cleared of dead fall.
Links Tract Campground Open to Visitor Limited services may be available. Please be prepared and recreate responsibly. Park only in designated areas. Avoid crowded areas to maintain social distancing and comply with state public health orders limiting group size. Visit our Know Before You Go page for more information.
Little Tesuque Picnic Site Open to Visitor Limited services may be available. Please be prepared and recreate responsibly. Park only in designated areas. Avoid crowded areas to maintain social distancing and comply with state public health orders limiting group size. Visit our Know Before You Go page for more information.
Lone Pine Mesa Trail #214 Open to Visitor Most trails on the Santa Fe National Forest are open. Please follow CDC guidance for social distancing and Leave No Trace outdoor ethics for caring for public lands. Trail has not been cleared of dead fall.
Lower Dalton Picnic Site Closed to Visitor Limited services may be available. Please be prepared and recreate responsibly. Park only in designated areas. Avoid crowded areas to maintain social distancing and comply with state public health orders limiting group size. Visit our Know Before You Go page for more information.
McCauley Warm Springs Open to Visitor Limited services may be available. Please be prepared and recreate responsibly. Park only in designated areas. Avoid crowded areas to maintain social distancing and comply with state public health orders limiting group size. Visit our Know Before You Go page for more information.
Middle Fork Trail #266 Open to Visitor Most trails on the Santa Fe National Forest are open. Please follow CDC guidance for social distancing and Leave No Trace outdoor ethics for caring for public lands. Trail has not been cleared of dead fall.
Na-na-ka Trail #217 Open to Visitor Most trails on the Santa Fe National Forest are open. Please follow CDC guidance for social distancing and Leave No Trace outdoor ethics for caring for public lands. Trail has not been cleared of dead fall.
North Azul Trail #264 Open to Visitor Most trails on the Santa Fe National Forest are open. Please follow CDC guidance for social distancing and Leave No Trace outdoor ethics for caring for public lands. Trail has not been cleared of downfall.
North Fork Trail #269 Open to Visitor Most trails on the Santa Fe National Forest are open. Please follow CDC guidance for social distancing and Leave No Trace outdoor ethics for caring for public lands. Trail has not been cleared of dead fall.
Oak Flats Picnic Site Closed to Visitor Park only in designated areas. Avoid crowded areas to maintain social distancing and comply with state public health orders limiting group size. Visit our Know Before You Go page for more information.
Paliza Family Campground Closed to Visitor The road to the campground is being resurfaced. Visitors may experience some delays in accessing the campground due to construction and traffic controls. Please be prepared and recreate responsibly. Park only in designated areas. Avoid crowded areas to maintain social distancing and comply with state public health orders limiting group size. Visit our Know Before You Go page for more information.
Paliza Group Campground Closed to Visitor Closed indefinitely to protect public health and align with state and local measures to contain the COVID-19 outbreak. Visit www.fs.usda.gov/goto/r3/safety for more information.
Pecos River Trail #456 Open to Visitor Most trails on the Santa Fe National Forest are open. Please follow CDC guidance for social distancing and Leave No Trace outdoor ethics for caring for public lands. Trail has not been cleared of dead fall.
Pecos Trail #24 Open to Visitor Most trails on the Santa Fe National Forest are open. Please follow CDC guidance for social distancing and Leave No Trace outdoor ethics for caring for public lands. Trail has not been cleared of dead fall.
Penas Negras #32 Open to Visitor Most trails on the Santa Fe National Forest are open. Please follow CDC guidance for social distancing and Leave No Trace outdoor ethics for caring for public lands.
Po-shu-oinge' Interpretive Site (minor) Open to Visitor Please follow CDC guidance for social distancing and Leave No Trace outdoor ethics for caring for public lands.
Rattlesnake Ridge Interpretive Site (minor) Open to Visitor Most trails on the Santa Fe National Forest are open. Please follow CDC guidance for social distancing and Leave No Trace outdoor ethics for caring for public lands.
Redondo Campground Closed to Visitor Limited services may be available. Please be prepared and recreate responsibly. Park only in designated areas. Avoid crowded areas to maintain social distancing and comply with state public health orders limiting group size. Visit our Know Before You Go page for more information.
Resumidero Camping Area Open to Visitor Limited services may be available. Please be prepared and recreate responsibly. Park only in designated areas. Avoid crowded areas to maintain social distancing and comply with state public health orders limiting group size. Visit our Know Before You Go page for more information.
Rincon Fishing Site Open to Visitor Please follow CDC guidance for social distancing and Leave No Trace outdoor ethics for caring for public lands.
Rio Chama Campground Closed to Visitor Limited services may be available. Please be prepared and recreate responsibly. Park only in designated areas. Avoid crowded areas to maintain social distancing and comply with state public health orders limiting group size. Visit our Know Before You Go page for more information.
Rio Chama Campground, Small Group Sites Closed to Visitor Limited services may be available. Please be prepared and recreate responsibly. Park only in designated areas. Avoid crowded areas to maintain social distancing and comply with state public health orders limiting group size. Visit our Know Before You Go page for more information.
Rio Chama Wild & Scenic River Open to Visitor Please follow CDC guidance for social distancing and Leave No Trace outdoor ethics for caring for public lands.
Rio De Las Vacas Campground Closed to Visitor Limited services may be available. Please be prepared and recreate responsibly. Park only in designated areas. Avoid crowded areas to maintain social distancing and comply with state public health orders limiting group size. Visit our Know Before You Go page for more information.
Rio En Medio Trail #163 Closed to Visitor Medio Fire Area Closure
Rio Puerco Campground Open to Visitor Limited services may be available. Please be prepared and recreate responsibly. Park only in designated areas. Avoid crowded areas to maintain social distancing and comply with state public health orders limiting group size. Visit our Know Before You Go page for more information.
Rio Valdez Trail #224 Open to Visitor Most trails on the Santa Fe National Forest are open. Please follow CDC guidance for social distancing and Leave No Trace outdoor ethics for caring for public lands. Trail has been cleared of downfall between the 224/250 junction and 224/270 junction. New trees may come down anytime. Equestrian users are encouraged to carry a hand saw should a trail become impassable.
Rito Perro Trail #256 Open to Visitor Most trails on the Santa Fe National Forest are open. Please follow CDC guidance for social distancing and Leave No Trace outdoor ethics for caring for public lands. Trail has not been cleared of downfall.
River's Bend Fishing Site Open to Visitor Open year round. Please follow CDC guidance for social distancing and Leave No Trace outdoor ethics for caring for public lands.
Rociada Trail #250 Open to Visitor Most trails on the Santa Fe National Forest are open. Please follow CDC guidance for social distancing and Leave No Trace outdoor ethics for caring for public lands. Trail has been cleared of dead fall between the 250/249 junction and the 250/252 junction. New trees may fall across the trail at any time. Equestrian users are encouraged to carry a hand saw.
San Antonio Campground Closed to Visitor Limited services may be available. Please be prepared and recreate responsibly. Park only in designated areas. Avoid crowded areas to maintain social distancing and comply with state public health orders limiting group size. Visit our Know Before You Go page for more information.
San Antonio Group Campground Closed to Visitor Closed indefinitely to protect public health and align with state and local measures to contain the COVID-19 outbreak. Visit www.fs.usda.gov/goto/r3/safety for more information.
San Antonio Hot Springs Open to Visitor Limited services may be available. Please be prepared and recreate responsibly. Park only in designated areas. Avoid crowded areas to maintain social distancing and comply with state public health orders limiting group size. Visit our Know Before You Go page for more information.
San Diego Canyon Overlook Overlook Site Open to Visitor Please follow CDC guidance for social distancing and Leave No Trace outdoor ethics for caring for public lands.
San Diego Fishing Site Open to Visitor Open year round. Please follow CDC guidance for social distancing and Leave No Trace outdoor ethics for caring for public lands.
Santa Fe Alpine Ski Area Open to Visitor Please follow CDC guidance for social distancing and Leave No Trace outdoor ethics for caring for public lands.
Santiago Lake Trail #274 Open to Visitor Most trails on the Santa Fe National Forest are open. Please follow CDC guidance for social distancing and Leave No Trace outdoor ethics for caring for public lands. Trail has not been cleared of dead fall.
Sebadilloses Trail #245 Open to Visitor Most trails on the Santa Fe National Forest are open. Please follow CDC guidance for social distancing and Leave No Trace outdoor ethics for caring for public lands. Trail has been cleared of downfall. New trees may come down anytime. Equestrian users are encouraged to carry a hand saw should a trail become impassable.
Seven Springs Picnic Site Closed to Visitor Limited services may be available. Please be prepared and recreate responsibly. Park only in designated areas. Avoid crowded areas to maintain social distancing and comply with state public health orders limiting group size. Visit our Know Before You Go page for more information.
Spanish Queen Picnic Site Open to Visitor Limited services may be available. Please be prepared and recreate responsibly. Park only in designated areas. Avoid crowded areas to maintain social distancing and comply with state public health orders limiting group size. Visit our Know Before You Go page for more information.
Spence Hot Springs Open to Visitor Limited services may be available. Please be prepared and recreate responsibly. Park only in designated areas. Avoid crowded areas to maintain social distancing and comply with state public health orders limiting group size. Visit our Know Before You Go page for more information.
Tsi'pin Trail #238 Open to Visitor Most trails on the Santa Fe National Forest are open. Please follow CDC guidance for social distancing and Leave No Trace outdoor ethics for caring for public lands.
Upper Dalton Fishing Access Fishing Site Open to Visitor Please follow CDC guidance for social distancing and Leave No Trace outdoor ethics for caring for public lands.
Valle Medio Trail #241 Open to Visitor Most trails on the Santa Fe National Forest are open. Please follow CDC guidance for social distancing and Leave No Trace outdoor ethics for caring for public lands. Trail has not been cleared of downfall.
Vista Grande Overlook Observation Site Open to Visitor Most trails on the Santa Fe National Forest are open. Please follow CDC guidance for social distancing and Leave No Trace outdoor ethics for caring for public lands. Scheduled for reconstruction.
Vista Linda Campground Open to Visitor Limited services may be available. Please be prepared and recreate responsibly. Park only in designated areas. Avoid crowded areas to maintain social distancing and comply with state public health orders limiting group size. Visit our Know Before You Go page for more information.
Windy Bridge Picnic Site Closed to Visitor Limited services may be available. Please be prepared and recreate responsibly. Park only in designated areas. Avoid crowded areas to maintain social distancing and comply with state public health orders limiting group size. Visit our Know Before You Go page for more information.
Winsor Creek Fishing Area and Trailhead Open to Visitor Please follow CDC guidance for social distancing and Leave No Trace outdoor ethics for caring for public lands. No water.
Winsor National Rec Trail #254 Open to Visitor Most trails on the Santa Fe National Forest are open. Please follow CDC guidance for social distancing and Leave No Trace outdoor ethics for caring for public lands. Trail has been cleared of dead fall from the Winsor Creek Trailhead the 251 juntion on the Espanola RD. New trees may fall across the trail at any time. Equestrian users are encouraged to carry a hand saw.
Winsor Ridge Trail #271 Open to Visitor Most trails on the Santa Fe National Forest are open. Please follow CDC guidance for social distancing and Leave No Trace outdoor ethics for caring for public lands. Trail has been cleared of downfall. New trees may come down anytime. Equestrian users are encouraged to carry a hand saw should a trail become impassable.
Winsor Ridge Trailhead Open to Visitor Most trails on the Santa Fe National Forest are open. Please follow CDC guidance for social distancing and Leave No Trace outdoor ethics for caring for public lands.

Spotlights

Espanola Ranger District

Aspens in full color at Santa Fe Ski Basin

Española Ranger District contains the western segment of the iconic Pecos Wilderness, the Caja Del Rio Plateau, and many more scenic areas. The Truchas Peaks border the Pecos/Las Vegas and Española ranger district boundaries and are a popular hiking destination. Every fall, people are drawn to Hyde Park Road to view the enchanting golden fall foliage of the quaking aspen.  There are plenty of developed sites to stop and enjoy the view! Both the Santa Fe and Los Alamos areas have trails nearby maintained by the Forest Service, providing an escape from city life and the summer heat.

There are four geographic regions that make up the Espanola Ranger District within the Santa Fe National Forest. These are the Forest lands South of Abiquiu, the Forest lands around Los Alamos, the Forest Lands West of Santa Fe known as the Caja del Rio, and the Forest Land North of Santa Fe within the Sangre de Cristo Range. A general map of popular recreation sites and trails in each of these areas can be seen by selecting the map area of interest below:

Map Disclaimer

 

Coyote Ranger District

Landscape View of Coyote Ranger District

The Coyote Ranger District, the northernmost district of the Santa Fe National Forest, encompasses 265,100 acres. The Chama River Canyon Wilderness and the northern section of the San Pedro Parks Wilderness provide amazing recreation opportunities. Visitors delight in floating the Wild and Scenic Rio Chama or hiking in the San Pedro Parks to escape the summer heat. The Coyote Ranger District also has 40 miles of the famous Continental Divide Scenic Trail system passing through its canyons and forests.

Cuba Ranger District

The Cuba Ranger District is located in the western part of the Santa Fe National Forest and shares the San Pedro Parks Wilderness with the Coyote Ranger District. San Pedro Parks Wilderness is easily accessed through the San Gregorio Lake Trailhead, and the district also provides access to the Continental Divide Scenic Trail. The Rio De Las Vacas and Clear Creek Campgrounds provide visitors with scenic views of the surrounding mountains. It’s the perfect weekend getaway and a respite from the New Mexico summer heat. Bull elk bugle in the fall, and quaking aspen change their colors to gold as temperatures cool.

Jemez Ranger District

Landscape view picnic site of Jemez Ranger District

The Jemez Ranger District is home to the Jemez National Recreation Area, located within the Jemez Mountains. A drive through the district reveals multiple cultural landmarks and impressive geological formations. Red rock canyons, round peaks, colorful mesas and clear blue skies provide an inspiring backdrop. Cottonwood gallery forests dot the lower recreation sites and provide shade for anglers in the summer, turning brilliant hues of gold and yellow in the fall. In the higher elevations, quaking aspen take over and display their foliage of gold and red. Trails lead to hot springs and waterfalls, glimpses of the Valles Caldera, and majestic views of the mountains. A visit to the district will leave you enchanted by the land that the people of the Jemez Pueblo have lived in for generations.

Pecos - Las Vegas Ranger District

View of a mountain hillside with yellow aspen and pine trees.

The Pecos/Las Vegas Ranger District is home to the iconic Pecos Wilderness, and the headwaters of the Pecos River originate from the district. A vast system of trails provide plenty of day hiking and backpacking for adventure seekers of all levels. Multiple campgrounds like Jack’s Creek, Iron Gate and Panchuela make great base camps for those exploring the wilderness. The Wild and Scenic Pecos River Corridor provides excellent stream fishing. The district, which extends east toward Las Vegas, is rich with history and wildlife. The Las Vegas side has trails that also extend into the Pecos Wilderness. From hunting to hiking, recreation opportunities on this district are plentiful.

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Highlights


https://www.fs.usda.gov/recmain/santafe/recreation