Cloudcroft Hiking Trails

From gentle forest loops to dramatic canyon descents, find the trail that matches your ambition.

Osha Trail winding through mixed conifer forest near Cloudcroft Easy

Osha Trail

2.2 mi 200 ft gain ~1 hr

A gentle loop through mixed conifer forest — perfect for families and a quiet afternoon walk.

Wildflowers Bird watching Family-friendly
Rim Trail with canyon-edge views along the Sacramento Mountains Moderate

Rim Trail

4.5 mi 600 ft gain ~2.5 hr

Stunning canyon-edge views along the Sacramento Mountain rim with diverse terrain.

Canyon views Photography Diverse terrain
Cloud-Climbing Rail Trail passing through historic railroad tunnels and trestles Easy

Cloud-Climbing Rail Trail

3.6 mi one-way 300 ft gain ~2 hr

Follow the historic railroad bed through tunnels and trestles — a unique piece of mountain history.

Historic trestles Tunnels Railroad history Mexican Canyon Trestle
Dog Canyon Trail with dramatic descent from mountains to Tularosa Basin Hard

Dog Canyon Trail

6.4 mi 3,100 ft gain ~5 hr

A challenging descent (or ascent) connecting the mountains to the Tularosa Basin — dramatic elevation change.

Dramatic views Challenging terrain Desert-to-forest transition
Slide Group Loop nature walk near Slide Campground Easy

Slide Group Loop

1.5 mi 100 ft gain ~45 min

Short and sweet nature walk near Slide Campground — great for kids and quick outings.

Family-friendly Picnic areas Accessible
Mexican Canyon Trestle, an iconic railroad trestle in the Sacramento Mountains Moderate

Mexican Canyon Trestle Trail

2.0 mi 400 ft gain ~1.5 hr

Hike to the iconic railroad trestle — one of the most photographed spots in the Sacramento Mountains.

Historic trestle Photography Mountain views

Trail Tips

Stay safe and make the most of your high-altitude hike.

Wear sunscreen — UV is stronger at altitude.

Carry extra water — you dehydrate faster above 8,000 ft.

Store food properly — bears are active in the forest.

Start early — afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer.

Resources

Everything you need to prepare for the trails.

Need More Adventure?

Hiking is just the beginning — explore biking, stargazing, skiing, and more.

All Activities