Diablo Canyon Recreation Area
The dramatic vertical cliffs of Diablo Canyon Recreation Area are a hiking and climbing destination located near the Río Grande. The eastern cliff walls are on BLM-managed land. The cracked basalt of Diablo Canyon offers some of the best multi-pitch traditional and sport climbing in New Mexico. Over one hundred routes range from 5.8 to 5.13 in difficulty. Winter Wall and the Solar Cave are located on the east side of the canyon.
The western cliff walls and canyon trail are managed by the US Forest Service (USFS). The canyon trail (wash) is approximately 7.5 miles out and back and ends at the Río Grande. The canyon does get very warm and offers little shade so plan accordingly. The trail/wash may become impassable during inclement weather and after heavy rains. If there is flowing water stay off the trail/out of the canyon.
Diablo Canyon has been featured in movies such as The Missing, 3:10 to Yuma, and Cowboys and Aliens.
Photos
Accessibility Description (ABA/ADA)
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There are limited facilities at Diablo Canyon Recreation Area. Campsites are primitive and visitors need to be able to walk for several yards across uneven, dirt roads.
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The trail leading down into Diablo Canyon is made of dirt, goes downhill into a wash, and is dotted with large rocks that may be a tripping hazard or have to be climbed over.
- Diablo Canyon itself has several rock walls that offer climbing and bouldering for those of various skill levels. Visitors need to be able to set up safety gear, climb, hold one’s body weight with their hands and feet for extended periods of time and repel down safely.
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
Fees
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None. First come, first serve.
Facilities
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There is a vault toilet, but no potable water.
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Facilities include a defined trailhead and parking area.
- The canyon trail (wash) is approximately 7.5 miles out and back and ends at the Río Grande.
- The canyon does get very hot, offers little shade and no water so plan accordingly.
- There is no trash receptacle available. You must take all trash back out with you.
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Camping:
- Primitive, dispersed camping is allowed along the eastern canyon.
- Three car camping sites with defined parking areas, one has a fire ring.
- A large open area is available for group camping.
Nearby Amenities
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The nearest location to acquire food, water, and gas is in Santa Fe, ~16 miles away via Old Buckman Road and Camino La Tierra.
Season/Hours
- Open year-round.
- The road to the canyon and the trail/wash may become impassable during inclement weather and after heavy rains. If there is flowing water stay off the trail/out of the canyon.
Special Rules
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The canyon is closed to motorized vehicles.
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No fireworks, discharge or use of firearms, or any other weapons.
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Please pack out what you pack in and practice good land ethics.
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Pets must be on a 6-foot leash.
BROCHURES, MAPS, AND PUBLICATIONS
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N/A
Wildlife in Area
- Common Checkered Whiptail
- Plateau Striped Whiptail
- Swanson’s Hawk
- Grey foxes
Phone
Activities
Addresses
Geographic Coordinates
Directions
Access Veterans Memorial Highway (599) from either I-25 south of Santa Fe (exit 282) or off Saint Frances Drive, NW. Exit onto Camino La Tierra Road heading west toward the Rio Grande. After about 4 miles, take a right onto Old Buckman Road and start down a dirt road, watch for cattle. After about 7.5 miles, you will reach the turnoff on your left used for parking for the Diablo Canyon Recreation Area.
Fees
No