The Mesilla Valley has many wonderful experiences to enjoy, and opportunities to explore our gorgeous natural surroundings draw many to the area. Whether you are visiting for a short trip, are new to the area, or have lived in the valley your whole life, take the time to check these hiking and biking trails off your list.
There are places to hike, bike, and camp for all levels of adventurers. Here are a few that made the top of the list.
ORGAN MOUNTAINS
The defining landscape of our community is this majestic mountain range with its steep and rocky peaks. The dramatic needles of the Organ Mountains are great for advanced hikers and rock climbers. Mountain bikers love the Organ Mountains because of the challenging elevations and terrain. Every peak has its own name and degree of difficulty, like the Organ Needle or the barren granite Sugarloaf Peak, and each peak features spectacular views of the Mesilla Valley.
The Organ Mountains are just one part of the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument, which also encompasses the Sierra de las Uvas, Doña Ana, Robledo, and Potrillo mountains.
DRIPPING SPRINGS NATURAL AREA/AGUIRRE SPRING RECREATION AREA AND CAMPGROUND
Both of these sites have beautiful hiking trails that can accommodate novice to advanced hikers. Aguirre Spring offers some more challenging trails and a campground, while Dripping Springs is fine for the day-tripper. Both sites are a wonderful way to spend a day enjoying the great outdoors, and if you happen to go after it rains, you might be rewarded with some waterfalls.
You’ll find Aguirre Springs off Highway 70 on the way to Alamogordo from Las Cruces. As you take the windy road, the terrain changes from desert to pine forest. But you’ll have to hike to get to the pine trees. If you’re up to the challenge, plan to hike over Baylor Pass to the other side of the mountains. Be sure to have a car waiting on the other side or be prepared to hike back over.
Located at the end of Dripping Springs Boulevard, Dripping Springs Natural Area features almost five miles of interconnected trails. e. Dripping Springs is a popular day trip location for wildlife viewing, exploring the old buildings, and having great views of the Mesilla Valley. There is a $5 per vehicle fee to visit.
Dripping Springs Trail is moderately challenging and takes you by the remains of the Van Patten Mountain Camp and Boyd Sanitarium. Fillmore Canyon Trail takes you to another waterfall while the La Cueva Trail takes you by a cave once inhabited by a local hermit and the La Cueva picnic area. It also connects with the Crawford Trail.
“A” MOUNTAIN
Tortugas Mountain, also called “A” Mountain, stands just past the university campus. There are many hiking and mountain biking trails over and around Tortugas with varying levels of difficulty. This spot is great for those who don’t have a lot of time but want a workout in nature.
Why A? For the New Mexico State University Aggies, of course!
SOLEDAD CANYON
The Soledad Canyon trail is just under 3.5 miles long and doesn’t take much more than two hours to hike the entire loop if you go at a decent pace. You’ll find it on Soledad Canyon Road off University/Dripping Springs Boulevard.
At the end of the trail, you might get lucky and find a natural waterfall that in wintertime can have icicles instead of flowing water. Leashed pets are welcome. This trail is perfect for the family to enjoy.
Picacho Peak Recreation Area
The west side of the Mesilla Valley is punctuated by Picacho Peak, which gave the name to the Picacho Peak neighborhood. There are 15 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails in the Picacho Peak Recreation Area and a 1.5-mile trail to the top of the peak, which stands at almost 5,000 feet. Challenge yourself with the hike, and then enjoy spectacular views of the Mesilla Valley.
SLOT CANYON
This little hidden gem, also known as the Slot Canyon of Leasburg, is a fun hike and picnic spot for the family. Located in the Robledo Mountains, this canyon is described by some as caves without tops. The walk through the canyons will grab and hold the attention of even the least enthusiastic of hikers.
ROBLEDO MOUNTAINS
These mountains in Doña Ana County are regarded as some of the best terrain for mountain biking and are challenging for even the most advanced riders. The peaks, valleys, and views of the Mesilla Valley are not as dramatic as those of the Organs but provide longer, more endurance-style biking runs. There is also a 7.8 mile loop near Las Cruces that is great for hiking and birdwatching.
Posted by LasCruces.com
