Taos Valley Overlook Trails

The Taos Valley Overlook Trails consist of several single-track loops, and some two track trails totaling about 16 miles of intermediate level of difficulty.  

The trail is multi-use and enjoyed by hikers, equestrian riders, and mountain bikers throughout the trail system. Aside from great recreation opportunities, there are also stunning views of the Rio Pueblo de Taos along several sections of the trails. 

Accessibility Description (ABA/ADA)

  • There are 16 miles of multi-use dirt trails that leads down to the Rio Pueblo de Taos and then loop up through the mountains of Taos. The hiking sections are dirt trails that are relatively flat in several sections and 4-6 feet wide. As you travel uphill the trail will narrow then go up and downhill.  

    • The bike trails are narrow, winding, and crisscross sections of trail where hikers and equestrians are also recreating.  
    • To utilize any section of trail visitors need to be able to walk across uneven terrain, navigate on horseback, and/or bike on narrow trails. To recreate safely visitors need to understand the trail has little to no shade, no facilities, and has to be shared with others on foot, horseback, or moving at high speeds on a mountain bike.  

Adventure is at Your Fingertips

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

Fees 

  • None 

Facilities 

  • There is no potable water at any of the trailhead locations.  

  • A restroom is available at Cascabel trailhead at end of County Road 110.  

  • There are dirt parking lots, at the trail heads.  

    • The parking areas do become muddy after a large rain.  

Nearby Amenities 

  • The nearest location to acquire food, gas, and water is Rancho de Taos, 6.5 miles away via NM - 68 N. 

Season/Hours 

  • Open year-round. 
    • Trails become extremely muddy when wet, after big rain or snow melt during winter months  
    • Use is not recommended during these conditions. 

Special Rules  

  • Pets must be on a 6-foot leash. 

  • No overnight camping is allowed. 

  • No fireworks, discharge or use of firearms, or any other weapons 

  • Practice Leave No Trace. Please make sure to carry out or dispose of any litter.  

 BROCHURES, MAPS, AND PUBLICATIONS 

  • N/A 

Wildlife in Area  

  • Snakes  
  • Lizards 
  • Deer 
  • Elk  
  • Big Horn Sheep 
  • Raptors  

Phone

575-758-8851

Email

blm_nm_tafo_admin@blm.gov

Activities

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BACKPACKING
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DAY USE AREA
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HIKING
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HORSEBACK RIDING
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MOUNTAIN BIKING
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PHOTOGRAPHY
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PICNICKING
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WILDLIFE VIEWING

Addresses

Taos Field Office
1024 Paseo Del Pueblo Sur
Taos
New Mexico
87571

Geographic Coordinates

36.32306806, -105.7037906

Directions

There are two ways to access the Taos Valley Overlook. Travel two miles south from Ranchos de Taos on NM 68, then turn right onto CR110 and follow the road for four miles to the parking lot at the end. 

Alternatively, travel 6 miles south of Ranchos de Taos on NM 68, then turn right. There will be a sign that says Taos Valley Overlook and a parking lot and another trail access.  

Fees

No

Stay Limit

Day Use Only