|
|
 |
 |
Recreational Activities
Home : Ranger
Districts : Española Ranger District
: Trails
Atalaya Mountain Trails
Trail 170 Ponderosa Ridge
 
Length: 2.75 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Seasons: Spring, summer and fall
Lowest and Highest Points: 7,540 to 9,121 feet
Trail Access: : Take Camino Cruz Blanca past St. John’s
College and turn right on the private subdivision road (Ponderosa
Ridge and Wilderness Gate). Parking for the trail is at the small
lot immediately to your left, before the two pillars. Public vehicle
use is not allowed on the private road beyond the two pillars. From
the pillars to the Santa Fe National Forest boundary (at the powerline)
the trail is on private land, so please stay on the trail or road.
USGS Maps: Santa Fe Quadrangle
Description:
The trail starts at the small parking lot, and follows the
stucco wall south along the subdivision road 200 feet, then
turns left (east) into the Ponderosa Ridge Subdivision. Walk
around the entry gate and continue on this road approximately
500 yards to the cul de sac, steps, and Forest boundary. Follow
the switchbacks as the trail rapidly gains elevation. The
trail meets Trail 174 within
a half-mile. Bear left (north) and follow the ridgeline to
the summit of Atalaya Mountain, another 2 miles. There are
a few, unsigned side trails that can be misleading. |
Notes:
 Atalaya
Mountain trails are popular due to their close proximity to
Santa Fe as well as the excellent views afforded from the
top.
Dramatic
views of the city, and the Sandia, Ortiz, and Jemez mountain
ranges are offered at the summit and hikers are encouraged
to stay (and catch their breath) after the 1,700 foot climb. |
|
|
|
