It’s no secret that Santa Fe is a nature-lover’s paradise - but with so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming when it comes to finding the perfect spots to hike, swim, ski, raft, and more. From fan favorites to hidden gems, northern New Mexico has a wealth of stunning outdoor spots to get out and explore.

Hiking

The Santa Fe area has dozens of amazing hiking trails to choose from, with options for beginners and experienced hikers alike. You can explore the scenic high desert, mountainous alpine climes, lush river valleys, and more all within a short drive of downtown. We’ve included both short hikes you can squeeze into a busy day full of activities, as well as longer hikes that you can devote a few hours or more to.

Sun Mountain

Duration: 1.6 miles up and down

Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous

Trailhead: Access the trail from Old Santa Fe Trail or from behind St. John’s College

Also known as Monte Sol, Sun Mountain is located on the east side of Santa Fe, near Museum Hill and St. John’s College. There are two ways to access this short hile: you can park along Old Santa Fe Trail to access the trailhead there, or you can park in the St. John’s College visitor’s parking lot and access the trail from behind the college. The Old Santa Fe Trail trailhead is better marked, but the St. John’s College trail may be less crowded.

Sun Mountain involves some strenuous climbing near the top, so be sure to pace yourselves and bring plenty of water. That said, the hike only takes about an hour and a half to complete when going at a moderate pace. Once you reach the top, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the surrounding area, including downtown Santa Fe. This trail is also a great spot to catch a stunning Santa Fe sunset.

Atalaya

Duration: 6 miles out and back

Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous

Trailhead: Hikers can park in the visitor’s lot adjacent to St. John’s College to access the lower trailhead, or further up the road to access the upper trailhead at Wilderness Gate

Atalaya Mountain is also located near St. John’s College on the east side of Santa Fe. The trail is six miles out and back, and starts off at a gentle incline, winding through arroyos and chamisa bushes before beginning a steep ascent up the mountain. Toward the top, hikers will encounter some steep climbing, and the high elevation can be a challenge for visitors still acclimating to Santa Fe’s altitude. That said, Atalaya features some of the most stunning views of the Santa Fe area, and is well worth it for experienced hikers looking for a good climb.

Picacho Peak

Duration: 3.5 miles out and back

Difficulty: Moderate

Trailhead: The trailhead begins at the parking area at the end of Upper Canyon Road

Picacho Peak is also located on the east side of Santa Fe. It’s a similar hike to Atalaya, but is a bit shorter and less strenuous, making it a great choice for a solid afternoon hike to fit in between other activities. Picacho Peak is part of the Dale Ball trail system, which includes over twenty miles of trails in and around Santa Fe. The trail begins at the end of Upper Canyon Road, and winds through tall evergreen trees leading up to the peak. If you’re looking for more of a challenge, Picacho also connects with several other trails in the area, which you can add to your trip for a longer hike.

Picacho Peak is a beautiful trail with great views.

Santa Fe Canyon Preserve

Duration: 1.5 mile loop

Difficulty: Easy

Trailhead: The main trailhead is at the end of Upper Canyon Road

The Santa Fe Canyon Preserve is located at the end of Upper Canyon Road, adjacent to the trailhead for Picacho Peak. This short and easy trail is a great option for visitors who may not be up for a challenging climb. The trail also feels a world away from the bustle of downtown Santa Fe, and features a scenic resevoir, lush vegetation, and great views. There are also plenty of benches to take a break on, and it’s a great spot to enjoy a snack and chill out in nature without having to break too much of a sweat.

Dale Ball Trails

Duration: Flexible (you can string multiple short hikes and trails together)

Difficulty: Moderate

Trailhead: You can access these trails at the end of Upper Canyon Road or at the intersection of Hyde Park Road and Sierra del Norte

The Dale Ball Trails are a network of trails extending for over 20 miles around Santa Fe. You can access the trail system from several different points around town. These trails include scrubby high desert hikes, steep climbs to peaks like Picacho Peak, and plenty of easy to moderate trails to choose from. These trails are great for exploring over and over, but also make for a nice afternoon hike. The Dale Ball Trails are generally very well-marked, and you can decide to extend or shorten your hike on the fly by adding on additional loops and trails to your route.

Aspen Vista

Duration: The trail is 12 miles, but you can turn back at any point

Difficulty: Easy

Trailhead: The trail starts from the Aspen Vista Picnic Area near the Santa Fe Ski Basin

The aptly-named Aspen Vista trail is one of the best places to view the fall foliage near Santa Fe. The trail begins about 12 miles up Hyde Park Road, just before the Santa Fe Ski Basin. The gravel path stretches for over 12 miles and winds through aspen groves and cool mountains. You can turn back at any point along the hike, making it a great option for hikers of all skill and endurance levels. The trail is great all year round, but is especially stunning during the fall. Go early in the morning to beat the crowds and take in the amazing sights!

Aspen Vista Trail features stunning fall foliage.

Tsankawi Trail at Bandelier National Monument

Duration: 2-mile loop

Difficulty: Moderate

Trailhead: On State Highway 4, a few miles away from the main area of Bandelier.

Bandelier National Monument is one of the most popular outdoor destinations in the Santa Fe area. There are a bunch of different trails in the Bandolier area, which is located near Los Alamos, New Mexico, a short drive from Santa Fe. One trail particularly worth checking out is the Tsankawi Trail, which features ancient petroglyphs and great views. The trail does features some ladders and steep climbs, but is flat once you reach the top of the mesa. Tsankawi Trail also features several informational placards that inform visitors about the history and culture of the Ancestral Pueblo peoples.

Winsor Trail

Duration: Flexible (you can turn back at any point along the 25-mile trail)

Difficulty: Moderate

Trailhead: The trailhead is located at the top of the Santa Fe Ski Basin

If you’re looking to escape from the city to the cool and quiet of the mountains, Winsor trail is the place to be. This trail stretches almost 25 miles through the forests surrounding Santa Fe, but a great place to start is at the top of the Santa Ski Basin, where the trail climbs through tall evergreen and aspen groves. The mountains are generally much cooler than Santa Fe proper, making it a great escape for the hot summer months. The trail is also beautiful in the fall when the leaves turn. There are free campsites at the base of the trail for hikers interested in staying overnight.

Hot Springs

Northern New Mexico is one of the best places to enjoy natural hot springs. Due to the region’s geothermal activity, there are plenty of hot pools for soaking and swimming in. While there are cultivated hot spring spas in the area, these rustic natural pools are just as fun.

San Antonio Hot Springs

San Antonio hot springs is located near Los Alamos, New Mexico, just a short drive from Santa Fe. During the summer, the forest road leading to this trail is open, although it’s only suitable for vehicles with high clearance and four-wheel drive. At the end of the road, it’s a short mile-long hike uphill to the springs. During the winter, the forest road is closed, so hikers will have to go approximately 6 miles along the road before hitting the springs.

San Antonio hot springs features three tiered pools full of hot water that is ideal for soaking in after a long hike. Be sure to wear or pack a bathing suit and factor in plenty of time for relaxing in the pools.

San Antonio Hot Springs are a great place to relax and soak.

Spence Hot Springs

Spence hot springs are also only a short drive from Santa Fe, in the same area as the San Antonio hot springs. These springs are smaller and closer to the road, so they tend to be a bit more crowded. On the flip side, these springs require minimal hiking, and are a great spot to stop early in the morning to beat the crowds while exploring the area.

Montezuma Hot Springs

Montezuma hot springs are located near Las Vegas, New Mexico, about an hour’s drive from downtown Santa Fe. The drive from Santa Fe to Las Vegas is a scenic one, making this a great trip for visitors looking to venture out into northern New Mexico beyond Santa Fe proper. The springs used to be part of the Montezuma Hotel, which is no longer in operation. They’re just a short walk from the parking area.

Lakes

Large bodies of water may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of New Mexico, but the state actually has plenty of great lakes for swimming, boating, fishing, and exploring. New Mexico’s pristine natural beauty ensures that these lakes are some of the prettiest around.

Santa Cruz Lake

Santa Cruz Lake is located only a short drive from Santa Fe, near the town of Chimayo. While swimming isn’t allowed in this lake, it’s great for wading, hiking, and picnicking. Parking is $5 per vehicle per day and $7-9 a night to camp. After you’re done enjoying the lake, be sure to check out historic Chimayo on your way back to Santa Fe.

Abiquiu Lake

If you’re looking for cool, clear water, sunny skies, and as close to a real beach as New Mexico gets, Abiquiu is the place for you. The area features a small, sandy beach perfect for sunbathing, along with stunning blue waters that stand out against the red rocks of the high desert. There are also plenty of places to camp and picnic nearby.

Elephant Butte Reservoir

Elephant Butte Reservoir is one of the largest lakes in New Mexico, located about three hours south of Santa Fe near the town of Truth or Consequences. It’s a great spot for swimming, boating, fishing, hiking, and more. The lake features tons of local wildlife, as well as picnic spots and campsites for visitors interested in staying overnight.

Heron Lake

Heron Lake is located in northern New Mexico near the Colorado border. This picturesque lake is surrounded by quiet evergreen forest, and is a great spot for kayaking and canoeing, since motorboats are required to operate at no-wake speeds on the water. The lake is a great spot to view wildlife, with a chance of spotting mountain lions, black bears, elk, deer, and bald eagles. It makes a great day trip from Santa Fe and a lovely spot to enjoy a picnic after spending time on the water.

Bottomless Lakes

Located near the UFO hub of Roswell, New Mexico, the Bottomless Lakes are made up of nine small sinkholes. These little lakes are great for kayaking, canoeing, and enjoying the view. While deep, the lakes aren’t actually bottomless - they range from 17 to 90 feet in depth.

Cochiti Lake

If you’re looking for a quick dip in short proximity to Santa Fe, Cochiti Lake is a great option. This lake is popular with locals from Santa Fe and Albuquerque and is located in between the two cities. Cochiti Lake is a great spot for swimming, with a large, sandy beach to dry off on after you take a dip. You can also canoe and kayak on this lake.

Ute Reservoir

Located near the Texas border in eastern New Mexico, Ute Reservoir is a stunning lake that’s great for fishing, bird watching, and enjoying the great outdoors. This lake is one of the largest in New Mexico, and is a great overnight camping spot.

Nambe Lake

The trail to Nambe Lake begins along the Windsor Trail at the Santa Fe Ski Basin. The trail features significant elevation gain, making this a good option only for hikers who are already acclimated to the elevation. The lake is located in a pristine alpine environment that’s like a little oasis of cool, calm beauty.

Eagle Nest Lake

Eagle Nest Lake is located near the town of Angel Fire in northern New Mexico. This beautiful alpine lake is cool and calm during the hot summer months, and is a great lake for fishing and boating. The lake is also near Cimarron State Park if you’re looking for good hiking trails in the area.

Lake Katherine

Lake Katherine is often considered to be one of the most beautiful lakes in northern New Mexico. Since it requires a 15-mile out-and-back hike to get there, it’s also one of the most secluded and least crowded. It’s a great destination for an overnight backpacking trip, and camping is allowed near the lake as long as you’re at least 200 feet away.

White Water Rafting

Northern New Mexico is home to two rivers that make for great white water rafting: the Rio Grande and the Rio Chama. Both rivers have opportunities for rafting for beginners and experts alike. There are plenty of rafting companies and tour guides in the area to help make your rafting experience a great one.

The Rio Grande

Before it eventually forms a border between the United States and Mexico, the Rio Grande runs through Colorado and New Mexico. It features plenty of great opportunities for white water rafting along the way, with spots near Santa Fe, Taos, and Albuquerque. Depending on your personal preference and experience level, you can find challenging rapids as well as long, lazy river stretches perfect for floating.

The Rio Chama

While not quite as famous as the Rio Grande, the Rio Chama boasts just as many great opportunities for white water rafting. Located in northern New Mexico, the river eventually joins up with the larger Rio Grande. There are rapids suitable for all experience levels, and plenty of rafting guide companies to choose from.

Skiing

Many people are surprised to learn that it snows in New Mexico. In fact, Santa Fe is a great place to visit if you’re interested in winter weather activities! Nearby ski areas have tons of options for skiing, snowboarding, and more. And after you’re done skiing, there are plenty of great Santa Fe spots to cozy up for dinner and drinks in.

Ski Santa Fe

Ski Santa Fe is the perfect destination if you’re looking to ski somewhere close to Santa Fe. There are ski slopes for beginners and experienced skiers alike, along with lessons if you need to brush up on your skills. Only 16 miles from Santa Fe, Ski Santa Fe feels like a world away. Hitting the slopes after fresh snow there is a magical experience!

Pajarito Mountain

If you’re looking for a lower-key ski experience, Pajarito Mountain is a great fit. This smaller ski area is located near Los Alamos, New Mexico, and is popular with both locals and visitors. It’s a great place to practice your skills or learn to ski for the first time, and is very family-friendly. You can rent equipment and lockers if you don’t have your own. There’s also an area where you can order snacks and lunch to fuel up after a day on the slopes.

Taos Ski Valley

Taos Ski Valley is the most famous ski area in New Mexico, and for good reason. There are plenty of challenging, world-class ski and snowboard runs, as well as more beginner-friendly trails. If you’re planning to ski for multiple days, you can stay in lodging located in the ski valley itself, or in nearby Taos proper.

Outdoor Activities Near Santa Fe

As you can see, there are plenty of options to choose from when it comes to exploring the outdoors in the Land of Enchantment. From hiking trails to hot springs, rivers to ski slopes, there’s a way to enjoy New Mexico’s natural beauty in every season.

Explore New Mexico

Santa Fe's Best Outdoor Activities: The Complete Guide

Where to Go White Water Rafting in New Mexico

Our Favorite Waterfalls in New Mexico

The Best Lakes in New Mexico

How to Prepare for Santa Fe Elevation

The Best Places to Catch a Breathtaking Santa Fe Sunset

The Best Hot Springs in New Mexico

11 Can't-Miss Things to Do in Santa Fe

Fun Things to Do in Santa Fe This Summer

72 Hours in Santa Fe - Things to Do

At Wander New Mexico, we have a passion for telling stories and creating unique gastronomic experiences that allow people to connect through food.

Join us for authentic, immersive food & history tours that allow our guests to experience New Mexico’s unique food culture, rich flavors, and intriguing history!

Our Tours