Contact Info
1710 N. Riverside Drive
Española, NM 87532
- Phone:
- 505-753-7331
Basics
- Length:
- 9 miles
- Difficulty:
- Intermediate
- Time:
- 6 - 7 hours
- Trailhead Elevation:
- 7000 feet
- Elevation Range:
- 7000 feet to 9600 feet
- Elevation Change:
- 2600 feet
- Usage:
- Light
- Season:
- Summer to Fall
Description
From the turn off about one mile before Cundiyo, Forest Road 307 winds toward the Rio Frijoles for less than a mile before ending at a gate and a closed section of road. A small stream flows to the south at this point, where one vehicle can be parked, and the Frijoles River is nowhere in sight. If one continues up the closed road on foot, they will hike above the river drainage for about one half mile and then drop down to the river within another half mile. A jeep road continues along the riverbank for a short distance before fading into a trail. From here on, this trail follows the river closely all the way to the intersection with Capulin Trail 158. Because the canyon is deep, steep and narrow, the trail crosses from one side of the river to the other repeatedly.
There are a few natural bridges across the water, but hikers will find it necessary to get their feet wet. During late spring and early summer, the stream can be waist deep with a powerful current. In sections where side canyon feed into the Frijoles drainage, good camping areas can be found. After the junction with Borrego Trail 150, the canyon tends to widen out and provides more camping opportunities.
Tour Companies
Outspire Hiking and Snowshoeing
- Santa Fe Area
- Snowshoeing, Hiking
- 505-660-0394
From alpine to desert, Outspire guides enrich your experience by giving context to your hike. So that your destination is not only what you see, but a sense of where the area fits in New Mexico's history, geology and natural world. Our hiking guides are experienced, enthusiastic, and motivated to share the joy of being outside! Day hikes and winter snowshoe outings are planned to suit your interests and fitness.Helpful Links
Tour Companies
Outspire Hiking and Snowshoeing
- Santa Fe Area
- Snowshoeing, Hiking
- 505-660-0394
Details
Length:
Difficulty:
Time:
Trailhead Elevation:
Elevation Range:
Elevation Change:
Usage:
Season:
Useful Map(s):
Additional Details:
This makes an excellent access to the western Pecos Wilderness if transportation can be arranged. It is one of the easiest hiking trails in regard to elevation changes. The trail crosses the river numerous times which can slow hiking travel considerably.
In late spring and early summer when snow runoff is high, this trail is not recommended. The depth of the river and strength of the current can make it dangerous to cross. It is possible to remain on the north bank of the river, but when there is no trail, the cross country travel in the narrow canyon is very difficult.
By mid-June the river is generally more negotiable and Trail 154 makes a pleasant hike. Because of the difficult access, opportunities for solitude in this area are very good.
Map + Directions
Basic Directions
The closest access is from Forest Road 307 which leaves State Route 503 about a mile south of the town of Cundiyo. No developed trailhead parking areas are available. The road enters private land at a locked gate: a small pullout just before the gate affords space for one vehicle. Follow the dirt road through the private land for the first mile or so to reach the Frijoles drainage.
