The best walks and hikes around Las Campanas
4.3
(26)
399
hikers
37
hikes
Hiking around Las Campanas offers access to diverse trail systems set within the high desert's rolling hills and the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. The region features picturesque desert landscapes, expansive views, and unique flora. Trails wind through rugged terrain, with the nearby Santa Fe National Forest providing additional natural environments, including large stands of evergreen trees.
Best hiking trails around Las Campanas
- The most popular hiking route is Ridgetop loop — La Tierra Trails, a 2.9 miles (4.7 km) trail that takes 1 hour 35 minutes to complete. This route offers views across the high desert landscape.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Santa Fe River Trail — Santa Fe, a moderate 6.5 miles (10.4 km) path. This trail provides an accessible option for exploring the local scenery along the river.
- Local hikers also love the Calabasas Trail loop — La Tierra Trails, a 1.9 miles (3.0 km) trail leading through rolling desert terrain, often completed in about 1 hour 1 minute.
- Hiking around Las Campanas is defined by high desert landscapes, rolling hills, and views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy walks to moderate hikes.
- The routes in Las Campanas are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.2 stars from over 20 reviews. More than 300 hikers have used komoot to explore Las Campanas's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
2
hikers
10.3km
03:23
120m
140m
Explore the moderate 6.4-mile La Tierra Loop in Santa Fe, offering high-desert views and panoramic mountain vistas.
1
hikers
3.83km
01:14
30m
40m
Embark on a moderate hike through the classic high-desert landscape of the La Tierra Trails Loop via Frijoles Trailhead. This route spans 2.4 miles (3.8 km), with a gentle elevation gain of 105 feet (32 metres), making it a pleasant journey for about 1 hour and 14 minutes. As you hike, you will find the path winding through rolling hills dotted with juniper trees, offering expansive views of the distant mountains. The trails are generally wide and often sandy, providing a true southwestern desert feel. You will experience open vistas that showcase the unique beauty of the Santa Fe area.
Planning your visit to the La Tierra Trails is straightforward. The Frijoles Trailhead is conveniently situated just three miles from the Santa Fe Plaza, ensuring easy access for your hiking adventure. You will find ample parking available directly at the trailhead, making it simple to start your journey. The trails themselves are well-maintained and clearly marked, which helps you navigate with ease. Consider visiting during cooler parts of the day, especially in warmer months, to fully enjoy the experience.
This trail offers a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in the distinctive high-desert environment characteristic of the region. The landscape, with its unique flora and open spaces, provides a clear sense of the natural surroundings near Santa Fe. It is an excellent choice if you are looking for a relatively short and accessible outdoor experience that highlights the local ecosystem without requiring extensive time or effort. The La Tierra Trails are known for their accessibility and offer a glimpse into the natural beauty just outside the city.
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1
hikers
4.25km
01:07
30m
20m
The Santa Fe River Trail offers a delightful urban escape, following a paved, multi-use greenway through the heart of Santa Fe. While the river can sometimes be dry, community efforts have transformed its banks into a lush, green corridor, especially around Footbridges Park and Frenchy's Field Park. This easy 2.6-mile (4.3 km) hike, with a minimal 110 feet (34 metres) of elevation gain, is perfect for a relaxing stroll, taking about 1 hour and 6 minutes to complete.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is highly accessible with multiple entry points throughout the city. You'll find parking options near the various parks it connects, making it convenient for a quick outing. It's a fantastic choice for a family-friendly adventure or a dog-friendly walk, providing a peaceful retreat from city life at almost any time of year.
This trail is a testament to community involvement, with ongoing rehabilitation efforts that have planted thousands of willows along the riverbanks, enhancing its natural beauty. Frenchy's Field Park, a notable landmark along the route, even features a charming prairie dog sanctuary. It's a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, offering opportunities for bird watching and enjoying the scenic landscape right in the middle of Santa Fe.
2.25km
00:37
30m
30m
Hike the easy 1.4-mile Frank S Ortiz Dog Park trail in Santa Fe, offering rolling hills, desert views, and mountain vistas.
30.1km
07:50
190m
190m
Hike the difficult 18.7-mile Caja del Rio OHV Trail through Santa Fe National Forest, gaining 624 feet with expansive views.
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Tips from the Community
La Tierra Trails is a well-designed trail system for hiking, mountain biking and trail running. There are 25 miles of trails and many connectors, making it easy to loop around and choose your own adventure here!
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The Calabasas Trailhead leads you to the northeastern end of the La Tierra Trails system. There is a short loop hike you can do along the northern boundary here, or you can connect with the rest of the trail system for a longer hike.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Las Campanas?
There are over 20 hiking routes available around Las Campanas, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. The komoot community has explored more than 20 routes in the area.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see while hiking in Las Campanas?
Hiking in Las Campanas offers stunning high desert landscapes, rolling hills, and expansive views of the surrounding area, including the majestic backdrop of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Trails often wind through rugged terrain, and you can experience unique flora and fauna of the high desert. The nearby Santa Fe National Forest also provides areas with evergreen trees.
Are there trails suitable for beginners or easy walks in Las Campanas?
Yes, Las Campanas offers several easy hiking options. Out of the 23 routes, 8 are classified as easy. An example is the Santa Fe Open Space Trails loop — Santa Fe, which is an easy 3.9 km path.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Las Campanas?
The high desert climate of Las Campanas makes spring and fall ideal for hiking, with pleasant temperatures. Summer can be hot, so early morning or late afternoon hikes are recommended. Winter hiking is also possible, offering a different perspective of the landscape, though conditions can vary.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Las Campanas?
The hiking routes in Las Campanas are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.2 stars from over 20 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse terrain, the scenic views of the high desert and mountains, and the variety of options for different ability levels.
Are there any circular hiking routes in Las Campanas?
Yes, several circular routes are available. Popular options include the Ridgetop loop — La Tierra Trails, a 4.7 km trail, and the Calabasas Trail loop — La Tierra Trails, which is 3.0 km long.
Are the hiking trails around Las Campanas dog-friendly?
While many trails in the Santa Fe area are dog-friendly, it's always best to check specific trail regulations before heading out. Generally, dogs are welcome on leash in many parts of the La Tierra Trails system and the Santa Fe National Forest, which are accessible from Las Campanas.
Are there family-friendly hiking options in Las Campanas?
Yes, there are several family-friendly options, particularly among the easier trails. The Santa Fe Open Space Trails loop — Santa Fe is an easy 3.9 km route that could be suitable for families looking for a shorter, less strenuous walk.
What interesting landmarks or attractions can I find near the hiking trails?
Beyond the natural beauty, the Santa Fe area, close to Las Campanas, offers several cultural and historical attractions. You can explore the historic Palace of the Governors, visit The Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi, or discover art at the New Mexico Museum of Art. For more trails, the Santa Fe Rail Trail is also nearby.
Is parking available for the hiking trails in Las Campanas?
Parking is generally available at trailheads for popular systems like the La Tierra Trails and other public access points around Santa Fe. Specific parking details can often be found on individual route pages or local trail maps.
Are there any permits required for hiking in the Las Campanas area?
For most general hiking trails in and around Las Campanas, including the La Tierra Trails and many parts of the Santa Fe National Forest, permits are typically not required for day hikes. However, always check for specific regulations if venturing into designated wilderness areas or private lands.
Can I access trails around Las Campanas using public transport?
While Las Campanas is an exclusive community, some trail systems in the wider Santa Fe area, such as parts of the Santa Fe River Trail, may be accessible via Santa Fe's public transportation system. However, direct public transport to all trailheads within Las Campanas itself might be limited, making personal vehicle access more convenient for many routes.
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