La Cueva Non-Motorized Trail System | New Mexico
The La Cueva Non-Motorized Trail System covers approximately 2,200 acres and contains more than 15 miles of maintained trails. The non-motorized trails are conveniently located near the city limits of Carlsbad, and are primarily used by mountain bikers, hikers, and equestrians.
The trails wind through the rolling limestone foothills of the Guadalupe Mountains and the rugged Chihuahuan Desert environment. A wide variety of cactus and wildlife add to the desert experience.
Photos
Accessibility Description (ABA/ADA)
La Cueva Non-Motorized Trail System and La Cueva Ridge Trail does not have any accessible features or facilities. To utilize this area, one needs to be able to hike, bike, or horse ride up to almost 23 miles across rolling hills, rough terrain, while navigating around wildlife or other recreators.
Shade is limited, water is not available, and service may be spotty along the trail.
- Head out early in the day to beat the heat.
Tell someone where you are going and when you will return.
- Bring a cellphone or personal locator beacon.
Know Before You Go
Fees
None
Facilities
There is no potable water at either location.
La Cueva Non-Motorized Trail
A parking lot with a vault restroom, information panel, and shade structures.
La Cueva Ridge Trail
A parking lot and information panel.
Nearby Amenities
The nearest location to acquire food, gas, and water is in Carlsbad,~9 miles away via McKittrick Rd and Standpipe Rd.
Season/Hours
Open year-round.
Special Rules
Motorized use of the trail is prohibited.
Pets must be on a 6-foot leash.
Please make sure to carry out any litter.
No fireworks, discharge or use of firearms, or any other weapons.
Brochures, Maps, and Publications
In progress
Wildlife in Area
Bullsnakes
Rattlesnakes
Rabbits
Red-tail Hawks
Contact Us
Activities
Addresses
Geographic Coordinates
Directions
Due to the construction of the West Loop Road Relief Route through the La Cueva Trail System there are safety concerns regarding the use of the present trailhead, therefore the trailhead is being relocated to McKittrick Road on the southwest side of the trail system.
From Carlsbad head west on NM-524 W/W. Turn south on Standpipe Road and travel 3.5 miles to Hidalgo Rural Road. Take Hidalgo Road for 1.2 miles before turning right onto McKittrick Road. Follow McKittrick for .9 mile, the parking area will be on the right directly before a cattleguard and fence.