Las Vacas Trail

The Los Pinos, Anastacio, and Las Vacas Loop offers a challenging and rewarding journey through the San Pedro Parks Wilderness. You'll traverse a mix of dense pine woodlands and expansive high-elevation meadows, with the Las Vacas Trail section following the scenic Rio de las Vacas. This difficult 14.1-mile (22.7 km) hike, with its 2346 feet (715 metres) of elevation gain, takes around 6 hours and 50 minutes to complete, making it ideal for those seeking a true wilderness experience.

Planning your visit means preparing for a demanding day. The Los Pinos Trailhead is your starting point, and an early start is recommended to ensure you have ample daylight. Sturdy shoes are essential, as wet conditions can make the path slippery and more challenging. Always check the weather forecast before you head out into this remote area.

This loop is a fantastic way to experience the San Pedro Parks Wilderness, known for its high-elevation plateau and opportunities for wildlife spotting, including elk and cattle. The Los Pinos Trailhead also connects to the Continental Divide Trail (CDT), adding to the sense of adventure and vastness of this New Mexico landscape.