Top 6 Waterfalls in the Sangre de Christo Mountains

The two tiers of the waterfall aren't visible from the outside, but can only be heard. It's essential to walk along the edge or in the riverbed for a while. Depending on the water level, this may be possible without any slippery feet. The stones aren't particularly slippery. This river path should be avoided in winter.

Definitely worth the hike. The waterfall is hidden between the rock walls, so water shoes are necessary.

The Upper Rio en Medio Trail is a popular, challenging 1.9-mile trail located near Santa Fe, New Mexico. It features a mix of steep grades, tight switchbacks, rock gardens, creek crossings, and scenic waterfalls, making it ideal for experienced mountain bikers seeking a backcountry adventure. This downhill-only trail begins near the Santa Fe Ski Area, following the river with a tough initial section before transitioning into smoother, faster segments. As you draw closer to Aspen Ranch, there are several alternative paths you can take if you want to change things up. At Aspen Ranch you have a few options: you can continue down the Lower Rio en Medio trail for a truly epic backcountry experience that takes you all the way down to the base of the mountains (shuttling cars is a must, unless you want an even more epic day), or, if you haven't shuttled a car to Aspen Ranch), you can turn back uphill to Ski Santa Fe on the Aspen Ranch Road (Forest Road 412), which you can connect to Pacheco Canyon (Forest Road 102) and either back up to the paved road or to the Winsor Trail. Although riding on trails is usually preferable, the Winsor Trail is usually ridden as a downhill trail and is very popular with hikers, making it for a sometimes trying uphill experience. Regardless of what you do at the end of the Upper Rio en Medio Trail, it's a truly fabulous section of backcountry downhill riding in the mountains above Santa Fe.

The Rainbow Trail is a nontechnical double track trail which passes by a couple creek waterfalls, with views out from the Sangre de Cristos. The trail is half exposed, half in the trees on the slope of Beck Mountain.

Venable Falls is a 30 ft waterfall tumbling down at least three tiers, the river flowing between ferns and pines. An amazing place to have some quiet time while enjoying the surroundings. While walking to Venable Trail, you can see how the valley was eroded due to intense power of water over time.

Willow Lake is formed by crystal clear water that comes directly from the glacier in Obstruction Peak (13800 ft). Expect stunning views of a blue water lake contrasting with the rocky mountain formations, surrounded by Pine Trees and a waterfall in the background. It's worth taking the trail to the left side and seeing the lake from the top, getting close to the waterfall.

Chacos, Keens, or similar are best for hiking up to the falls. From trailhead to stream is uphill and dusty with scattered benches under trees. Navigating through the stream is short, but water is cold and watch for deep sections.

Pecos Falls is a force of nature, a breathtaking view. The effort of the climb is richly compensated.