Picacho Peak Recreation Area
Picacho Peak is a 4959-foot high peak just northwest of Las Cruces. It is a volcanic mountain composed of rhyolite (mostly quartz and feldspar) that solidified at the surface approximately 35 million years ago. The recreation area has over 15 miles of mountain biking, hiking, and equestrian trails. The 1.5 mile trail to the peak provides spectacular views of the Mesilla Valley and the Organ Mountains. Although most of the recreational use occurs on the peak, there are also large canyons and mesa tops to explore.
Phone
Geographic Coordinates
Directions
From Interstate 10:
Take exit 135 (W. Picacho Ave./Highway 70 East) and travel east for approximately 2.5 miles. Turn north on Picacho Hills Dr. Continue on Barcelona Ridge Rd. after one mile. Travel one more mile, and turn north on Anthem Rd. Follow this for one mile to its end. Turn north on Loop Rd. (unpaved). Follow this for 1.5 miles to the trailhead parking lot.
From Interstate 25:
Take exit 6 (Highway 70 West/Las Cruces). Travel west (this is also known as N. Main St.) for approximately 2.5 miles. Turn right (west) on W. Picacho Ave., and follow this for 4 miles. Turn north on Picacho Hills Dr. Continue on Barcelona Ridge Rd. after one mile. Travel one mile and turn north on Anthem Rd. Follow this for one mile to its end. Turn north on Loop Rd. (unpaved). Follow this for 1.5 miles to the trailhead parking lot.
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
Fees
- None
Season/Hours
- Open year-round.
Activities
- Hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, nature study, photography, picnicking and OHV use limited to existing 4WD routes.
Facilities
- Two shaded picnic areas are available. Restrooms, drinking water, and trash receptacles are not available.
Special Rules
- No ground fires.
- No shooting near trails, houses, or livestock.
- Motorized use is limited to routes shown on Map of Picacho Peak Trails.
- The trail to the top of the mountain (Picacho Peak Trail) is only open to hiking.