Sample Hikes

General trail Descriptions

We enjoy varied hikes in the Santa Fe area corresponding to different geologic and elevation characteristics. They break down roughly into the following categories.

Alpine Hiking

Santa Fe is nestled against the Sangre de Cristo mountains, the southernmost stretch of the Rocky Mountains. Hike amidst ponderosa pines, aspens, and at higher elevations, spruce and fir trees. Varied hikes can include forested, creekside hikes or hikes that climb for big views of the Pecos Wilderness and the Santa Fe desert basin. These hikes are at an elevation of 9500' - 12,200. Varied hikes in this category, Effort Ratings of 2-4. Snow levels dictate when hikes are available but these are usually Summer through early Fall routes.

One sample hike: Follow a mountain stream canyon upwards through Douglas firs and meadows of Summer wildflowers. Can be a 6-mile level 2 route, or for those up to more challenge a climb up ridgeline gives fabulous wilderness views as a reward.

Low Alpine Hiking

Classic New Mexico forest! Hike on trails through juniper, pinon, and ponderosa pine forest. These hikes are at an elevation of 7500' - 9500'. Varied hikes in this category, Effort Ratings of 1-4. These hikes are available year-round, feature great views, and can be a great workout.

One sample hike: Walk between ecological "life zones" moving between pinon-juniper woodland to Ponderosa Pines on rolling single-track trail with glimpses of the Jemez peaks, Sandia Crest and the Rio Grande rift valley. Moderate level 2.

High Desert Hiking

Uniquely New Mexico, these hikes wander through high desert scenery and feature expansive views, unique geology reflecting the volcanic history of New Mexico, and in some cases, ancient petroglyphs. These hikes are at an elevation of 6000' - 7500'. Varied hikes in this category, Effort Ratings of 2-4. Wear long pants. These make excellent late Fall or Winter hikes, or plan on hiking early during other seasons.

One sample hike: Follow a winding, high-walled New Mexico arroyo (dry, sandy creekbed), watching for animals or their tracks along the way. Leave the sandy wash to follow juniper-covered mesa ridges to a wondrous volcanic basalt outcrop. Enjoy long views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountain peaks. Level 3 because of 9-mile distance.

Special Places Tours


There are some wonderful trails in destinations like Bandelier National Monument, Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks Monument, or Georgia O'Keeffe country which are fantastic not only for the trails but for the sight-seeing journey to trail head. For these places and others where travel times are 1 to 1-1/2 hour, you should plan on a longer round-trip time (though not necessarily a longer hike) and we will ask an additional fee.

One sample hike: Travel to Bandelier National Monument, stopping along the way for magnificent views of the Rio Grande rift valley. Tour a ruins trail with your private guide who will explain life as it was for the ancient Puebloans and their relationship to the landscape, plants and animals of the area. You may choose additional trails to explore more of the Monument; box lunches to enjoy along the way are a great add-on.

Hike + Soak Adventure


New Offering! Enjoy an interpretive hiking tour of an archaeologically and geologically rich sagebrush mesa, then treat yourself to the natural mineral waters of a historic spa resort. In partnership with the Bureau of Land Management and Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort & Spa, Outspire will be offering these special hiking tours on a seasonal basis.

This is an easy hiking area (easy Level 2), where you may choose to spend up to four hours exploring the mesa. Enjoy a box lunch on trail (or opt for a delicious lunch back at the resort restaurant), then a relaxing--even decadent--soak in the naturally hot mineral springs pools back at the trail head. Bring your swimsuit!

You will be provided for your use a daypack, bottled water and snacks, adjustable hiking poles, box lunch, towels, lockers with locks, and pool sandals. Restaurant meals or items from the gift shop are available at your expense. Please allow approximately 7 hours round-trip so you may fully enjoy a relaxing outing. Priced at $390 per couple (plus tax) for this special all-day outing.

Effort Ratings

These descriptions are meant to provide some framework other than just "easy" or "strenuous". Longer routes are considered harder than shorter, those with lots of climbing more difficult than flatter trails--you get the idea.

Level 1: A hike for anyone, even the exercise-phobic. Hikes have little elevation gain and are no more than three miles long. Hikes last up to 2 hours.
Level 2: For those not afraid of a little aerobic workout, these hikes may entail elevation gains up to 1000 feet OR a gentle grade but some uneven terrain. Hikes last up to 4 hours on trail.
Level 3: These are hikes which require climbs of 1000' to 2000' cumulative elevation gain OR some rough or off-trail walking OR routes of more than seven miles. Hikes last from 3 - 7 hours.
Level 4: Very long routes (over 11 miles) OR hikes with over 2000' cumulative elevation gain. Hikes last from 4 - 7 hours.

To reserve, call 505-660-0394 or click here for a reservation form.