Carson National Forest

Recreational Activities: Trails

Rio Grande del Rancho Trail 18

Location: Camino Real Ranger District

Trail Beginning: 7,155 feet
State Highway 518.

Trail Ending: 7,415 feet
Junction of State Highway 518 and Forest Road 438.

In the summer months the trail is used for hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding. In the Winter he trails are used for cross country skiing, snowmobiling and snowshoeing.

Access:
From Taos, follow State Highway 518 approximately 4 miles south of Taos. Trailhead is located on the east side of the highway.

Attractions and Considerations:
This trail follows a moderately steep drainage for approximately 1/4 mile, it will then make a sharp right hand turn and follow an old forest road which traverses several large drainages. These drainages provide a unique opportunity to travel from the high desert pinon/juniper woodland into the ponderosa/oak forest and then back out to the pinon/juniper. Wild flowers are continuously blooming along the trail from spring through fall. Spectacular views of Jicarita Peak can be seen at certain spots - especially traveling south.

The Rio Grande del Rancho Trail is a great place to hone mountain biking skills before attempting some of the more difficult trails in the Taos area.

Recommended Season: Summer and early Fall for hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding. Winter and early Spring for cross country skiing, snowmobiling and snowshoeing.

Length: 6 miles one way

Use: Moderate/Heavy

Difficulty: Novice to Intermediate

Elevation: Gains 260 feet

USGS QUADS: Ranchos De Taos

USDA Forest Service - Carson National Forest
Last Modified: Monday, 28 April 2008 at 10:58:46 EDT