Tips
January 11, 2023
Hiking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Picacho Peak
7
hikers
6.85km
02:15
310m
310m
Embark on the Dale Ball Trails for a moderate hike through the Sangre de Cristo Mountains foothills. You will traverse varied terrain, moving from pinyon-juniper woodlands dotted with yucca and cholla cactus to higher elevations where ponderosa and Douglas fir trees grow. The route covers 4.3 miles (6.8 km) with an elevation gain of 1020 feet (311 metres), typically taking about 2 hours and 14 minutes to complete. As you hike, look for the distinctive crystalline rock formations that catch the sunlight. You will also enjoy panoramic views stretching across the Rio Grande River valley and the city of Santa Fe.
The Dale Ball Trails are easily accessible from Santa Fe, making them a convenient choice for a quick outdoor adventure. The extensive network is well-marked with maps and numbered junctions at every intersection, ensuring straightforward navigation. While generally well-maintained, be aware that some sections can be rocky or sandy. You might also encounter muddy conditions, especially during spring snowmelt.
This trail system offers a fantastic escape into nature, providing a unique blend of high desert and mountain ecosystems. You can observe the transition from pinyon-juniper to ponderosa pine forests as you gain elevation. If you visit in the fall, you will be treated to vibrant changing colors, particularly around Picacho Peak, adding another layer of beauty to your hiking experience.
5.0
(2)
77
hikers
5.90km
02:32
330m
330m
Hike the difficult Picacho Peak Trail for 3.7 miles, gaining 1090 feet, with cables and panoramic desert views from the summit.
4.6
(5)
36
hikers
10.5km
03:39
570m
570m
Hike the moderate 6.5-mile Picacho Peak & Atayala Mountain loop in Santa Fe, gaining 1,867 feet with panoramic views.
Details
Informations
Elevation 2,580 m
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