Ah-Shi-Sle-Pah Wilderness | New Mexico

Ah‑Shi‑Sle‑Pah Wilderness in northwestern New Mexico features rolling badlands, colorful mudstone and sandstone hoodoos, petrified wood, and scientifically important fossils dating to the late Cretaceous. This desert landscape of sagebrush, piñon‑juniper, and Great Basin scrub offers intrepid visitors the opportunity to experience rugged badlands and paleontological heritage firsthand.

The area is remote and largely undeveloped to preserve its wilderness character. There are no facilities within the Wilderness Area.

Things to Do

• Hike and Explore: Non-motorized backcountry travel is encouraged in Ah-Shi-Sle-Pah Wilderness Area. Hiking involves roaming through soft clay hills and sandstone outcrops without marked trails.
• Hunt: Allowed with the proper license and permit. Follow New Mexico Department of Game and Fish regulations.

Features and Services

• Access and Road Conditions: Portions of NM-57 may become impassable after rain or snow; high-clearance vehicles are recommended. There is a large dirt parking area at the wilderness boundary.
• Cell Service: Minimal to nonexistent - plan for no coverage
• Toilets: None
• Potable Water: None
• Pets: Allowed on leash; please pack out waste.
• Camping: Primitive, dispersed camping is permitted. Please check fire restrictions in advance, follow guidance on posted signs, and respect private property.

Respect and Protect

Motorized and mechanical travel (including bicycles) and use of drones are prohibited due to the area’s Wilderness designation. Travelers should practice responsible outdoor ethics, stay within legal access boundaries, and follow BLM regulations for rock collecting. Enjoy exploring, but please do not climb or damage hoodoos or other fragile geological features.

It is prohibited to disturb or collect cultural objects or vertebrate fossils without a research permit.