Walking and Hiking in Santa Fe National Forest
The Santa Fe National Forest in Los Alamos offers a breathtaking natural setting for walkers and hikers to explore. With a variety of amenities such as restrooms, picnic sites, parking lots, and drinking water, visitors can enjoy a comfortable and convenient outdoor experience. The park is also dog-friendly and wheelchair-accessible, ...
The Santa Fe National Forest in Los Alamos offers a breathtaking natural setting for walkers and hikers to explore. With a variety of amenities such as restrooms, picnic sites, parking lots, and drinking water, visitors can enjoy a comfortable and convenient outdoor experience. The park is also dog-friendly and wheelchair-accessible, making it suitable for all nature enthusiasts. Additionally, there are numerous attractions to see, including the Gilman Tunnels, Spence Hot Spring, Jemez Canyon Overlook, and more. Whether you're a casual walker or an avid hiker, the Santa Fe National Forest provides an ideal backdrop for outdoor activity in the heart of nature.
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Hours8AM-4:30PM
Phone(505) 438-5300Websitehttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Santa_Fe_National_Forest
Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/santafeNF/
X - Twitterhttps://twitter.com/SantafeNF
Essential Amenities in Santa Fe National Forest
Santa Fe National Forest Sport Facilities
Accessibility in Santa Fe National Forest
Things to See in Santa Fe National Forest
AttractionExchange Hotel Complex Historic Site
AttractionSpence Hot Spring
AttractionTsi’pin Ruins trailhead (permit required via Coyote Ranger Station)
AttractionNogales Cliff House trailhead
ViewpointJemez Canyon Overlook
ViewpointJemez Falls Overlook
ViewpointVista Grande Overlook
ViewpointSki Santa Fe Overlook
ViewpointValles de Los Posos Overlook
Other Amenities in Santa Fe National Forest
Best Walking Routes in Santa Fe National Forest
#1 - CDT jfo
Length: 19.4 milesEst. Time: 5h13m
CDT jfo is a 19.4 mile (45,000-step) route located near Coyote, New Mexico. This route has an elevation gain of about 2332.1 ft and is rated as hard. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#2 - Porvenir Canyon Trail (247)
Length: 13.1 milesEst. Time: 3h16m
Porvenir Canyon Trail (247) is a 13.1 mile (30,000-step) route located near Rociada, New Mexico. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as medium. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#3 - Hollinger Trail (219)
Length: 1.9 milesEst. Time: 33m
Hollinger Trail (219) is a 1.9 mile (4,500-step) route located near Rociada, New Mexico. This route has an elevation gain of about 59 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
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Reviews of Santa Fe National Forest
PacerGal_1961Dec 29, 2024
PacerGuy_1965Jul 18, 2024
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Santa Fe National Forest Leaderboard
*Leaderboard only shows top 10 users. Only public activities are eligible for leaderboards. For any one park, a user can only check-in a maximum of once per day.
Nearby Parks
North Mesa Picnic Grounds FAQs About Santa Fe National Forest
Where is the best place to walk in Santa Fe National Forest in Los Alamos?
The best place to walk in Santa Fe National Forest in Los Alamos is the CDT jfo trail, which is highly rated and spans 19.4 miles. You can find more information and reviews on this trail on the Pacer community.
How many routes are in Santa Fe National Forest in Los Alamos?
There are six routes in Santa Fe National Forest in Los Alamos. You can explore and choose from a variety of trails for different skill levels. For more detailed information and reviews, you can visit the Pacer community.
Which is the longest route in Santa Fe National Forest in Los Alamos?
The CDT jfo trail is the longest route in Santa Fe National Forest in Los Alamos, spanning 19.4 miles. This trail is highly rated and offers a rewarding hiking experience. You can check out the Pacer community for more detailed information and reviews.
Are there facilities or amenities for walkers/hikers in Santa Fe National Forest?
Yes, there are several amenities for walkers and hikers in Santa Fe National Forest including restrooms, picnic sites, parking lots, drinking water, and dog-friendly areas.
How accessible is Santa Fe National Forest?
Santa Fe National Forest is wheelchair-friendly and dog-friendly, making it accessible for people with mobility challenges and those who want to bring their dogs for a walk or hike.
What kind of sports can I do in Santa Fe National Forest?
In Santa Fe National Forest, you can enjoy activities such as walking, hiking, and biking on the bike paths. There are also basketball courts available for sports enthusiasts.
What is the best season to walk in Santa Fe National Forest?
The best season to walk in Santa Fe National Forest is typically late spring to early fall when the weather is milder and more conducive to outdoor activities.
What are the typical weather conditions to prepare for in Santa Fe National Forest?
In Santa Fe National Forest, you should prepare for a wide range of weather conditions, including hot summers, cool autumns, and cold winters with potential snowfall. It's important to dress in layers and be prepared for sudden changes in weather.
What kind of wildlife might you encounter in Santa Fe National Forest?
While walking or hiking in Santa Fe National Forest, you may encounter wildlife such as mule deer, elk, black bears, and a variety of bird species. It's important to be aware of your surroundings and respectful of the natural habitat of these animals.
Last updated: Dec 1, 2025
Parks Near Santa Fe National Forest
North Mesa Picnic Grounds Latest Check-ins at Santa Fe National Forest
espy.michelleOct 15, 2025
espy.michelleSep 27, 2025
*Latest check-in only shows the last 10 users. Only public activities are eligible. For any one park, a user can only check-in a maximum of once per day.
Total Check-ins at Santa Fe National Forest
*Leaderboard only shows top 10 users. Only public activities are eligible for leaderboards. For any one park, a user can only check-in a maximum of once per day.
Best Walking Routes in Santa Fe National Forest
#1- CDT jfo
Length: 19.4 milesEst. Time: 5h13m
CDT jfo is a 19.4 mile (45,000-step) route located near Coyote, New Mexico. This route has an elevation gain of about 2332.1 ft and is rated as hard. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#2- Porvenir Canyon Trail (247)
Length: 13.1 milesEst. Time: 3h16m
Porvenir Canyon Trail (247) is a 13.1 mile (30,000-step) route located near Rociada, New Mexico. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as medium. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#3- Hollinger Trail (219)
Length: 1.9 milesEst. Time: 33m
Hollinger Trail (219) is a 1.9 mile (4,500-step) route located near Rociada, New Mexico. This route has an elevation gain of about 59 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#4- Lone Pine Mesa Trail (214)
Length: 3.1 milesEst. Time: 52m
Lone Pine Mesa Trail (214) is a 3.1 mile (7,000-step) route located near Sapello, New Mexico. This route has an elevation gain of about 1538.3 ft and is rated as hard. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#5- Middle Fork Trail (266)
Length: 4.3 milesEst. Time: 1h43m
Middle Fork Trail (266) is a 4.3 mile (10,000-step) route located near Cleveland, New Mexico. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#6- Los Pinos Trail (46) / Continental Divide Trail
Length: 5.1 milesEst. Time: 1h39m
Los Pinos Trail (46) / Continental Divide Trail is a 5.1 mile (12,000-step) route located near La Jara, New Mexico. This route has an elevation gain of about 2132 ft and is rated as hard. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#7- Quemazon Nature Trail
Length: 0.9 milesEst. Time: 15m
Quemazon Nature Trail is a 0.9 mile (2,000-step) route located near Los Alamos, New Mexico. This route has an elevation gain of about 154.2 ft and is rated as medium. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#8- Pajarito Nail Connector
Length: 0.7 milesEst. Time: 12m
Pajarito Nail Connector is a 0.7 mile (1,500-step) route located near Los Alamos, New Mexico. This route has an elevation gain of about 26.2 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#9- Camp May Road Trail
Length: 1.6 milesEst. Time: 27m
Camp May Road Trail is a 1.6 mile (3,500-step) route located near Los Alamos, New Mexico. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#10- Thanksgiving Rock - Mitchell Trail(69)
Length: 2.5 milesEst. Time: 42m
Thanksgiving Rock - Mitchell Trail(69) is a 2.5 mile (5,500-step) route located near Los Alamos, New Mexico, USA. This route has an elevation gain of about 577.3 ft and is rated as medium. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#11- Rendija Canyon Trail (297)
Length: 2.3 milesEst. Time: 40m
Rendija Canyon Trail (297) is a 2.3 mile (5,500-step) route located near Los Alamos, New Mexico. This route has an elevation gain of about 26.2 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#12- Pack Trail
Length: 4.7 milesEst. Time: 1h36m
Pack Trail is a 4.7 mile (11,000-step) route located near San Lorenzo, New Mexico. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#13- Beanfield Ridge (820)
Length: 0.4 milesEst. Time: 7m
Beanfield Ridge (820) is a 0.4 mile (1,000-step) route located near Los Alamos, New Mexico. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#14- Mule Train (821)
Length: 0.5 milesEst. Time: 8m
Mule Train (821) is a 0.5 mile (1,000-step) route located near Los Alamos, New Mexico. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#15- Spur 824 Chupaderos
Length: 1 milesEst. Time: 17m
Spur 824 Chupaderos is a 1 mile (2,500-step) route located near Los Alamos, New Mexico. This route has an elevation gain of about 55.8 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#16- Guaje Ridge Trail (285)
Length: 6.1 milesEst. Time: 1h38m
Guaje Ridge Trail (285) is a 6.1 mile (14,000-step) route located near Los Alamos, New Mexico. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#17- Piedra Canyon Trail
Length: 0.2 milesEst. Time: 3m
Piedra Canyon Trail is a 0.2 mile (410-step) route located near Los Alamos, New Mexico. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#18- Pajarito Nordic Ski Trail
Length: 0.9 milesEst. Time: 15m
Pajarito Nordic Ski Trail is a 0.9 mile (2,000-step) route located near Los Alamos, New Mexico. This route has an elevation gain of about 114.8 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#19- Guaje Canyon Trail
Length: 3.5 milesEst. Time: 1h24m
Guaje Canyon Trail is a 3.5 mile (8,000-step) route located near Los Alamos, New Mexico. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#20- Guaje Canyon Trail (282)
Length: 5.1 milesEst. Time: 1h35m
Guaje Canyon Trail (282) is a 5.1 mile (12,000-step) route located near Los Alamos, New Mexico. This route has an elevation gain of about 459.2 ft and is rated as medium. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#21- Mule
Length: 0.9 milesEst. Time: 15m
Mule is a 0.9 mile (2,000-step) route located near Los Alamos, New Mexico. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#22- Chupaderos South (822)
Length: 1.7 milesEst. Time: 28m
Chupaderos South (822) is a 1.7 mile (4,000-step) route located near Los Alamos, New Mexico. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#23- Just a trail
Length: 1.3 milesEst. Time: 22m
Just a trail is a 1.3 mile (3,000-step) route located near Los Alamos, New Mexico. This route has an elevation gain of about 478.9 ft and is rated as hard. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#24- Los Alamos Canyon Trail (294)
Length: 1.1 milesEst. Time: 18m
Los Alamos Canyon Trail (294) is a 1.1 mile (2,500-step) route located near Los Alamos, New Mexico. This route has an elevation gain of about 144.3 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#25- Little Bird Trail (286)
Length: 2.9 milesEst. Time: 49m
Little Bird Trail (286) is a 2.9 mile (6,500-step) route located near Los Alamos, New Mexico. This route has an elevation gain of about 754.4 ft and is rated as hard. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#26- Old Mitchell Trail
Length: 0.7 milesEst. Time: 11m
Old Mitchell Trail is a 0.7 mile (1,500-step) route located near Los Alamos, New Mexico. This route has an elevation gain of about 272.2 ft and is rated as hard. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#27- Los Alamos Canyon Trail
Length: 1.5 milesEst. Time: 25m
Los Alamos Canyon Trail is a 1.5 mile (3,500-step) route located near Los Alamos, New Mexico. This route has an elevation gain of about 285.4 ft and is rated as medium. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#28- Nail Trail
Length: 1.9 milesEst. Time: 33m
Nail Trail is a 1.9 mile (4,500-step) route located near Los Alamos, New Mexico. This route has an elevation gain of about 49.2 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#29- Quemazon Trail
Length: 2.7 milesEst. Time: 46m
Quemazon Trail is a 2.7 mile (6,000-step) route located near Los Alamos, New Mexico. This route has an elevation gain of about 1075.8 ft and is rated as hard. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#30- Barranca Crossing Trail
Length: 0.7 milesEst. Time: 12m
Barranca Crossing Trail is a 0.7 mile (1,500-step) route located near Los Alamos, New Mexico. This route has an elevation gain of about 137.8 ft and is rated as medium. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#31- Pajarito Canyon (280)
Length: 2.6 milesEst. Time: 45m
Pajarito Canyon (280) is a 2.6 mile (6,000-step) route located near Los Alamos, New Mexico. This route has an elevation gain of about 1397.3 ft and is rated as hard. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#32- Natural Arch Trail
Length: 0.3 milesEst. Time: 4m
Natural Arch Trail is a 0.3 mile (500-step) route located near Los Alamos, New Mexico. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#33- Pajarito Canyon Trail (280)
Length: 1.4 milesEst. Time: 24m
Pajarito Canyon Trail (280) is a 1.4 mile (3,000-step) route located near Los Alamos, New Mexico. This route has an elevation gain of about 600.2 ft and is rated as hard. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#34- Beanfield Mesa Trail
Length: 0.9 milesEst. Time: 16m
Beanfield Mesa Trail is a 0.9 mile (2,000-step) route located near Los Alamos, New Mexico. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#35- Caballo Canyon Trail
Length: 3.7 milesEst. Time: 1h38m
Caballo Canyon Trail is a 3.7 mile (8,500-step) route located near Los Alamos, New Mexico. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#36- LA Mountain Trail
Length: 0.4 milesEst. Time: 6m
LA Mountain Trail is a 0.4 mile (1,000-step) route located near Los Alamos, New Mexico. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#37- Guaje Mountain Trail
Length: 0.4 milesEst. Time: 6m
Guaje Mountain Trail is a 0.4 mile (1,000-step) route located near Los Alamos, New Mexico. This route has an elevation gain of about 55.8 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#38- Quemazon Trail (287)
Length: 1.1 milesEst. Time: 18m
Quemazon Trail (287) is a 1.1 mile (2,500-step) route located near Los Alamos, New Mexico. This route has an elevation gain of about 55.8 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#39- Upper Slit Trail
Length: 0.5 milesEst. Time: 8m
Upper Slit Trail is a 0.5 mile (1,000-step) route located near Los Alamos, New Mexico. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#40- Rendija Canyon Trail
Length: 0.3 milesEst. Time: 4m
Rendija Canyon Trail is a 0.3 mile (500-step) route located near Los Alamos, New Mexico. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#41- Cave of the Winds Trail
Length: 0.1 milesEst. Time: 2m
Cave of the Winds Trail is a 0.1 mile (332-step) route located near Los Alamos, New Mexico. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#42- Caballo Peak Trail (277)
Length: 1.9 milesEst. Time: 32m
Caballo Peak Trail (277) is a 1.9 mile (4,500-step) route located near Los Alamos, New Mexico. This route has an elevation gain of about 964.3 ft and is rated as hard. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#43- Neblina's 460
Length: 0.6 milesEst. Time: 9m
Neblina's 460 is a 0.6 mile (1,500-step) route located near Los Alamos, New Mexico. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#44- Cabra Loop Trail (279)
Length: 2.4 milesEst. Time: 41m
Cabra Loop Trail (279) is a 2.4 mile (5,500-step) route located near Los Alamos, New Mexico. This route has an elevation gain of about 187 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
