Nambe Badlands Trail | New Mexico

The Nambe Badlands Trail consists of two loops that cover about 5 miles of rolling terrain with several steep pitches. There are also excellent views of colorful eroded badlands.

Accessibility Description (ABA/ADA)

The Nambe Badlands Trail has no accessible features. It passes over and along natural contours, uneven dirt trails, and several steep, rocky segments that require rock scrambling. Visitors must be able to walk roughly 5-6 miles up or downhill, across loose and rocky terrain, and a narrow trail. The trail can be difficult to navigate as there are several social trails that intersect the original trail loops.

Know Before You Go

Fees

  • None.

Facilities

  • There is no potable water or restrooms available.
  • There are two parking areas.
    • The larger one has parking for several vehicles, a gate to access the property, and a trailhead.
    • The smaller parking area can only hold 4-5 vehicles and is right next to several properties. There is a short path with a gate that will take you out to the trail, but there is no trail marker or trailhead.

Nearby Amenities

  • The nearest place to camp is the Nambe Waterfalls and Lake Recreation Area.
  • The nearest spot to acquire food and gas will be along US Hwy 285.

Season/Hours

  • Open year-round.

Special Rules

  • No motorized vehicles are allowed on the trail.
  • Please do not remove or deface any rocks, petroglyphs, or fossils found in the area.
  • Please make sure to carry out any litter or put it in the trashcans.
  • No fireworks, discharge or use of firearms, or any other weapons.
  • Pets must be on a 6-foot leash.

Brochures, Maps, and Publications

  • N/A

Wildlife in Area

  • Plateau Striped Whiptails
  • Red-tailed hawks
  • Turkey vultures

Contact Us

Adventure is at Your Fingertips

Activities

Iconograph of a bicyclist
BIKING
Iconograph of two people wearing backpacks and using walking sticks
HIKING
Iconograph of a person on horseback
HORSEBACK RIDING
Iconograph of a camera
PHOTOGRAPHY
Iconograph of binoculars
WILDLIFE VIEWING

Addresses

Taos Field Office
226 Cruz Alta Road
Taos
New Mexico
87571

Geographic Coordinates

35.95029194, -105.95374

Directions

Located 4.5 miles north of the Nambe Pueblo Road intersection on NM 503, and 5.5 miles south of the NM503 and NM 98 road intersection south of Chimayo.

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