La Cueva Non-Motorized Trail System
The La Cueva Non-Motorized Trail System covers approximately 2,200 acres and contains more than 15 miles of maintained trails. The non-motorized trails are conveniently located near the city limits of Carlsbad, and are primarily used by mountain bikers, hikers, and equestrians.
The trails wind through the rolling limestone foothills of the Guadalupe Mountains and the rugged Chihuahuan Desert environment. A wide variety of cactus and wildlife add to the desert experience.
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KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
Fees
- None
Season/Hours
- Open year-round.
Facilities
- A vault restroom and shade structures with picnic tables are located at the original trailhead which is currently separated from the trail system.
Special Rules
- Motorized use of the trail is prohibited.
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Phone
Activities
Geographic Coordinates
Directions
Due to the construction of the West Loop Road Relief Route through the La Cueva Trail System there are safety concerns regarding the use of the present trailhead, therefore the trailhead is being relocated to McKittrick Road on the southwest side of the trail system.
From Carlsbad head west on NM-524 W/W. Turn south on Standpipe Road and travel 3.5 miles to Hidalgo Rural Road. Take Hidalgo Road for 1.2 miles before turning right onto McKittrick Road. Follow McKittrick for .9 mile, the parking area will be on the right directly before a cattleguard and fence.