3 Best Hiking Trails in Las Cruces, NM

“Dripping Springs Natural Area is protected within this gorgeous region of rocky peaks, constricting canyons, and open forests. The trail's total length is 3.0 miles, and the trail type is out and back. This mountain features steep, needle-like spires resembling an organ's pipes, which climb to over 456 feet in elevation. These natural areas also contain a diverse range of ecosystems with rich biological diversity, including the endangered Organ Mountains evening primrose and four rare wildflower species. Dripping Springs Natural Area also provides excellent year-round opportunities to see desert mule deer and coyotes. The trail ensures amenities like a wheelchair-accessible parking lot, public restrooms, picnic tables, and kid-friendly hikes for more comfort.”

“Soledad Canyon Day Use Area features a total trail length of 3.4 miles and is a loop-type trail. The elevation gain of the trail is 659 feet. The total time taken to complete the trail is 1 hour and 39 minutes, and the trail is considered an easy route. The three-mile circular Bar Canyon Trail in the region offers a short, beautiful walk relatively near Las Cruces. The trail also includes an elegant waterfall and is suitable for all skill levels. Visitors can observe various species of wildlife along the trail. Soledad Canyon Day Use Area also offers kid-friendly hikes and designated pet-friendly areas for the convenience of the visitors.”

“Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument is an ideal destination that features various trails for hiking. The elevation gain of the trail is 203 feet to 3,937 feet. The trail is considered a moderately challenging route for hiking. This nature area also has a 27-mile mountain bike and equestrian trail that extends to the Texas border. The trail also includes features like camping, hiking, views, wildflowers, walking, forest, horseback riding, mountain biking, scenic driving, and wildlife viewing. Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument is also a kid-friendly trail. The hiking trail ensures a designated leash area for pets.”