The best dog-friendly hikes and walks in Taos County

The South Boundary Trail to First Peak offers a quick, high-reward escape into the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, immersing you in the natural beauty of the Carson National Forest. You'll hike through serene conifer forests and impressive stands of aspen, with the terrain shifting between singletrack and some rocky, loose sections. The highlight is a memorable overlook near the El Nogal descent, providing sweeping views of the Taos area, making it a quintessential alpine experience for a relatively short outing. This easy hiking route is perfect for those seeking impressive vistas without a strenuous climb.

Access the trail from the El Nogal Trailhead, which is a popular starting point for this segment of the South Boundary Trail. While the route is generally accessible, be aware that it's a multi-use path, so you might share the trail with mountain bikers and horseback riders. For the most spectacular visual experience, consider visiting in autumn when the aspens ignite with vibrant yellow and gold foliage, though the trail is beautiful throughout the hiking season.

This specific 1.8-mile (2.9 km) segment to First Peak, with its 926 feet (282 metres) of elevation gain and estimated 1 hour and 1 minute duration, is considered easy, making it a great option for beginners or families. It's part of the much longer South Boundary Trail, which is renowned as an IMBA Epic mountain bike trail, highlighting its significance in the region. This particular section offers a taste of that grandeur in a manageable package.

The Enchanted Circle offers an immersive hiking experience through northern New Mexico's incredibly varied terrain, from sage-covered desert plateaus to high alpine forests. You'll journey past vibrant aspen groves, catch glimpses of snow-capped peaks, and traverse diverse paths ranging from packed dirt to rocky ridgelines. This difficult route covers 94.4 miles (152.0 km) with 6462 feet (1970 metres) of elevation gain, making it a significant undertaking that typically requires around 41 hours and 29 minutes to complete.

Planning your visit means preparing for diverse conditions, as the trail's elevation changes can bring sudden temperature shifts. Summer through fall is the best time to hike Enchanted Circle, with autumn providing spectacular foliage, but be mindful of afternoon thunderstorms in summer. Parking is available at various points along the route, including the El Nogal Trailhead, and the trail system integrates seamlessly with the 85-mile Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway.

What makes the Enchanted Circle truly special is its unique position circling Wheeler Peak, New Mexico's highest point, and its rich geological history, showcasing some of the oldest rocks in the southwest. The region boasts a wide range of ecosystems, from sagebrush plains to ponderosa pine forests, supporting diverse wildlife. Beyond the natural beauty, the area is steeped in cultural significance, with sites like the ancient Taos Pueblo nearby.

If you're looking for a rewarding hike with incredible vistas near Taos, the Devisadero Loop Trail is a top contender. This moderate 5.6-mile (8.9 km) route climbs 1154 feet (352 metres) over approximately 3 hours and 12 minutes, guiding you through diverse landscapes from arid piñon-juniper forests to cooler ponderosa pines and aspens. The real payoff comes with the expansive views of the Taos Valley and surrounding mountains from various lookout points, particularly as you near Devisadero Peak.

Planning your visit is straightforward, with the El Nogal Trailhead easily accessible just a few miles from Taos Plaza. Keep in mind that the trail can experience snow, ice, and mud during cooler months, so sturdy footwear is essential. Given the altitude, reaching over 8,300 feet, it's wise to consider your acclimation, but the trail is well-marked and dog-friendly.

What makes the Devisadero Loop Trail stand out is its reputation as a premier "lookout point" for the Taos Valley, offering unparalleled panoramic views. Its accessibility combined with the varied terrain and well-maintained path makes it a popular choice for a substantial workout and scenic escape. It's a great way to experience the diverse natural features of the region without venturing too far from town.

The Ojitos and South Boundary Trail Loop is a demanding 10.7-mile (17.3 km) hiking route that plunges you into the heart of Carson National Forest's alpine beauty. Expect a diverse journey underfoot, from tight singletrack winding through vibrant aspen groves and dense pine forests to rocky sections and even some unmaintained paths on the Ojitos Trail. The trail offers a remote backcountry feel, with expansive mountain views and a particularly stunning vista of Taos from a high point along the way.

This difficult trail involves a substantial 2125 feet (648 metres) of elevation gain, typically requiring about 5 hours and 21 minutes to complete. Access is straightforward from the El Nogal Trailhead, where parking is available. Due to the high elevation and technical sections, this loop is best tackled by experienced hikers with good fitness, especially if you're considering it in the fall when the foliage is at its peak.

What makes this trail truly stand out is its inclusion of the South Boundary Trail, an IMBA Epic route known for its world-class status. You'll encounter challenging sections like the steep, loose El Nogal, but also rewarding, flowy stretches dubbed "Heaven on Earth." The option to use the Ojitos Trail as a bypass for some of the more technical descents makes it a versatile choice for those looking to tailor their adventure in Carson National Forest.

The South Boundary and Ojitos Trail Loop offers a diverse and demanding hiking experience through the stunning alpine scenery near Taos. You'll traverse through beautiful conifer forests and extensive aspen groves, especially vibrant in the fall, with sections opening up to expansive meadows that provide panoramic views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Expect varied terrain, from smooth paths to rocky, technical stretches, making this a true high-altitude adventure.

This difficult 10.8-mile (17.4 km) loop involves a substantial 2278 feet (694 metres) of elevation gain, typically requiring about 5 hours and 28 minutes to complete. Access is usually via the El Nogal Trailhead, which has parking. The high elevation, starting around 10,500 feet, means this trail is best visited from late spring to early fall, with autumn being a prime time for fall colors. Always check current conditions before you go.

Known as an IMBA Epic and National Recreation Trail, the South Boundary Trail is celebrated for its challenging nature and breathtaking views. The Ojitos Trail often serves as a strategic bypass for hikers wanting to avoid the most technical sections of South Boundary, though it still presents a significant climb or descent. This loop is a fantastic option for experienced hikers seeking a rigorous workout and spectacular backcountry scenery.