New Mexico Trail

Tripadvisor (135) · Hiking area in Santa Fe, NM
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Get to know this 10.0-km out-and-back trail near Santa Fe, New Mexico. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 3 h 40 min to … See more

Reviews

Tripadvisor
4.5/5 · 135 reviews
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Aug 9, 2024
This is a good trail but it was very hot the day I went. Great views and easy walking trail. I recommend going when it is morning before the heat. Full review by Lantz7
Mar 11, 2023
Excellent trail for a quick no thrills 3-mile long hike with small 1500ft elevation gain. Good for families. Full review by WanderingTurk
Nov 4, 2022
Excellent well-marked trail, in very good condition, close to central Santa Fe. Good parking at St John's college (upper parking 6 spots only). 3.2mi up (took the steep section) and 3.6mi down (took … Full review by bitnibbler

Questions & answers

Q:
What is the temperature in November,I will be visiting,and would like to go hiking.
A:
Atalaya is a “city hike” ....meaning easy parking at St Johns. It’s a strenous dry hike if you go all the way to the summit, but easily done if you are fit and have adequate water. Plan …
A:
Atalaya is a “city hike” ....meaning easy parking at St Johns. It’s a strenous dry hike if you go all the way to the summit, but easily done if you are fit and have adequate water. Plan on how far and how long you want to be out... if you don’t make it to the top, you will do what you can and still get a number of great vistas.
Q:
We'll be there in late March. Is the trail hikeable then? Snow? Too cold?
A:
Temp varies in March, yet tends to mostly be mild or milder than in February. On Mt. Atalaya, it is more chilly than below and it's a fine, somewhat rigorous hike. Beautiful Santa Fe view on top.
Q:
Is it worth hiking for maybe just a mile out and a mile back? Anything nice to see?
A:
The Atalaya Trail is a lovely trail. The elevation in the first 3/4-1 mile is not very steep, so it will be a nice walk, and yes, it is worthwhile to walk for a mile or so and back. Take water …
A:
The Atalaya Trail is a lovely trail. The elevation in the first 3/4-1 mile is not very steep, so it will be a nice walk, and yes, it is worthwhile to walk for a mile or so and back. Take water and wear sun protection. Enjoy!
Q:
can you hike in winter without special gear? what is the weather like in December?
A:
You can, it just makes the hike more difficult, so keep your own skill levels and health in mind. I hiked the steep trail last winter when there was a heavy snow on the ground with icy …
A:
You can, it just makes the hike more difficult, so keep your own skill levels and health in mind. I hiked the steep trail last winter when there was a heavy snow on the ground with icy spots with regular shoes and no gear and I did ok, but it was pretty strenuous in a few spots due to slippage. The hike down wasn't really "dangerous" *for me* but it was how should I put it, "tactical." My advice would be to get Yaktrax or something similar if the ground is covered in snow. As for weather, I can't comment on December but in January it was clear blue skies with a heavy snow pack and icy spots. The top of the mountain was *very* frigid with high winds, though the lower portions were pretty warm when you were really hiking. Definitely bring water and snacks.
Q:
How long is the hike and is it strenuous?
A:
Yes, it is a very strenuous hike. If you are acclimated to the elevation and in good shape, it is still a very good workout. We met locals, usually younger, on this hike. As far as time, it …
A:
Yes, it is a very strenuous hike. If you are acclimated to the elevation and in good shape, it is still a very good workout. We met locals, usually younger, on this hike. As far as time, it depends on your fitness level and walking speed. I think 3-5 hours would be a safe bet. We are from sea-level, and we took this hike on our 3rd day in the Santa Fe area. It was tough for us. By the way, I am in my early 60's, and I made it to the top. Recommendation--take water and hiking poles.
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Q:
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