Picacho Hills is a community situated in the foothills of Picacho Peak, on the west side of Las Cruces, New Mexico. This region is characterized by its dramatic desert landscapes, including the prominent 4,959-foot (1,511 m) Picacho Peak, composed of rhyolite formations. The area offers views of the fertile Mesilla Valley and the distant Organ Mountains, providing a setting for several sports like hiking. Access to the Picacho Peak Recreation Area defines much of the outdoor experience in Picacho Hills.
…9
Routes
4
(1)
Average rating
25
People visited

2
hikers
17.4km
05:13
640m
450m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

1
hikers
1.96km
00:44
200m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

1
hikers
14.8km
03:43
10m
10m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

8.79km
02:41
280m
280m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Picacho Hills is primarily known for hiking, offering access to the Picacho Peak Recreation Area. The area features a variety of trails suitable for different skill levels. While komoot currently lists 2 hiking routes, the broader recreation area has over 15 miles (24 km) of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding.
Picacho Peak is a prominent 4,959-foot (1,511 m) volcanic mountain composed of rhyolite. It offers a challenging 1.5-mile (2.4 km) trail to its summit, providing panoramic views of the Mesilla Valley and the Organ Mountains. The peak is a central feature of the Picacho Peak Recreation Area.
Yes, Picacho Hills offers hiking options for various skill levels, including easier trails. komoot provides a specific guide for those seeking less strenuous options. Explore routes suitable for beginners in the Easy hikes around Picacho Hills guide.
The Picacho Hills area provides diverse hiking experiences within the Picacho Peak Recreation Area. Hikers can find routes that offer scenic views of the Mesilla Valley and the Organ Mountains. For a general overview of available trails, consult the Hiking around Picacho Hills guide.
Trail lengths in the Picacho Hills area vary, from shorter paths to longer excursions. The trail to the summit of Picacho Peak is approximately 1.5 miles (2.4 km) one way. The Picacho Peak Recreation Area features over 15 miles (24 km) of trails in total.
Key natural features include Picacho Peak, the expansive Mesilla Valley, and views of the distant Organ Mountains. The area also contains distinctive blue-colored canyons and arroyos formed by rhyolite, as well as Box Canyon and Spring Canyon, the latter known for its natural spring.
Routes in Picacho Hills have received an average rating of 4.0 out of 5 stars from more than 50 visitors on komoot. This indicates a generally positive experience among users who have explored the area's outdoor offerings.
Yes, komoot offers guides to help plan outdoor adventures in Picacho Hills. Available guides include Hiking around Picacho Hills and Easy hikes around Picacho Hills.
The Picacho Peak Recreation Area is managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). For information regarding the trails and recreation area, contact the Las Cruces District Office of the BLM. Their phone number is 575-525-4300.
The Picacho Hills community has an online presence through the Picacho Hills Country Club. Their official website is https://www.picachohills.com/. This site provides information related to the country club and general community.
For inquiries related to the Picacho Hills Country Club, the phone number is 575-523-8641. For information about the Picacho Peak Recreation Area, contact the Bureau of Land Management at 575-525-4300.
Yes, the area around Picacho Hills has historical significance. Box Canyon, for example, marks a point where the historic Butterfield Overland Trail left the Rio Grande valley heading west. This adds a historical dimension to the hiking experience.
Trails in Picacho Hills offer expansive desert vistas. From higher elevations, especially Picacho Peak, hikers can enjoy panoramic views of the fertile Mesilla Valley and the majestic Organ Mountains to the east.

