La Junta Overlook Loop

Created in 2013 from partly existing public lands, The Rio Grande del Norte National Monument encompasses a large amount of land along the Rio Grande River from the Colorado border to south of Taos. Far from any major city, you'll likely enjoy trails to yourself in the morning and few other visitors in the off-season. One of the main activities offered on the monument is white water rafting, bu...

This moderate trail is accessed from the Columbine campground on Highway 38. It will be on your right side when traveling east from Questa. Drive to the back end of the campground, where there are several spaces for parking. The moderate version of this hike will travel about 4 miles south into the Carson National Forest, following the canyon and crossing the creek several times. The trail is w...

At the last switchback on Country Road B-007, is where the trailhead is located. if you've gone to the lowest point possible within the canyon, right next to the river, you have gone too far and need to turn around to the last switchback. it is an easy .3 Mile trail with a 68 foot elevation drop/gain.  The biggest, deepest, and greenish pool is the warmest out of the 3. If you need help getting...

NOTE: The Hot Springs are on private property and are no longer accessible to the public.  The Basics: Hot springs abound in the Taos area. From the all-inclusive (and expensive) Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort to free, primitive hot springs like this one or neighboring Black Rock Hot Springs just to the north, there is no lack of hot water if you're looking for a nice soak. Like most n...

Drive towards the Taos ski area, passing through Arroyo Seco on NM-150 North. Four miles up this road, the Cuchillo del Medio campsites will be on the southeast side of the road. There are two sections of campsites, with side-by-side entrances. (Note: the southern section is currently closed due to tree-fall concerns). At the north section, there is one pit toilet and room for four different gr...

Completed in 1965, the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge is the seventh highest bridge in the United States. The design is a steel deck arch bridge than spans 1280 feet and sits 565 feet high. The bridge has sidewalks and viewpoints of the gorge on each side with parking at the Rio Grande Gorge Rest Area providing the best access. To photograph the bridge and gorge take the trail south of the rest area a...