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Tesuque Peak Road Trail

Contact Info
Santa Fe National Forest
1710 N. Riverside Drive
Española, NM 87532

Phone:
505-753-7331
Basics
Length:
5.6 miles
Difficulty:
Easy,
Intermediate
Time:
3.5 - 4.5 hours
Trailhead Elevation:
9800 feet
Elevation Range:
9800 feet to 12040 feet
Elevation Change:
2240 feet
Usage:
Heavy
Season:
Spring to Fall

Description

Beginning at the north end of the Aspen Vista parking lot, go around the gate and into a forest of conifer and aspen. After about a mile, the road crosses the north fork of Tesuque Creek. From this point, the road makes a series of climbs for about a mile, through one of the largest continuous stands of aspen in New Mexico. Soon the aspens thin out, giving way to pure stands of spruce.

In another mile the road has climbed to about 11,000 feet in elevation. To the southwest is an excellent view of Santa Fe and the Big Tesuque drainage. The road comes to a steep, sharp left turn after which it levels out somewhat. In another mile the road leaves the trees at timberline. The final stretch to Santa Fe Ski Area and the Tesuque Peak Electronic Site is out in the open and is often quite windy. Just after you pass under the chairlift, you can turn left onto the Skyline Trail 251 to the summit of Lake Peak and beyond, if you wish, or continue on the road to the summit of Tesuque Peak. The vegetation at the very top is alpine tundra with exquisite wildflowers. However, it is very delicate.

Tour Companies

  • Santa Fe Area
  • Snowshoeing, Hiking
  • 505-660-0394

Outspire Hiking and Snowshoeing 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.

Details

Length:
5.6 miles
Difficulty:
Easy
Intermediate
Time:
3.5 - 4.5 hours
Trailhead Elevation:
9800
Elevation Range:
9800 feet to 12040
Elevation Change:
2240
Usage:
Heavy
Season:
Spring to Fall
Useful Map(s):
USGS: Aspen Basin, and Pecos Wilderness
Additional Details:

In fall, the colors are spectacular.

Please avoid walking on the vegetation and leave the flowers for others to enjoy.

The easy grades make the first few miles of this road ideal for walkers of all abilities. The trip becomes a bit more difficult at higher elevations and a few steeper grades are encountered.

Restrooms and picnic facilities are available at Aspen Vista.

The upper reaches may be quite windy and cool, so carry extra layers of clothing.

Map + Directions

Basic Directions

Take Hyde Park Road (State Highway 475) northeast from Santa Fe to Aspen Vista Picnic Area, just beyond the 13-mile marker. Ample parking is available.


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