Mexican Canyon Trestle Hike, Cloudcroft (optional group lunch)

Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 2.3 miles
Elevation gain: 551 ft

The Mexican Canyon Trestle Trail is a scenic 2.2-mile out-and-back hike in Cloudcroft. Rated as moderately challenging, it typically takes about 1 hour and 12 minutes to complete. A highlight of the trail is the view of the historic Mexican Canyon Trestle, a wooden railroad trestle built in 1899 as part of the Alamogordo and Sacramento Mountain Railway. The trestle spans 323 feet and rises 52 feet above the canyon floor.

This will be a partially shaded hike through the forest, with morning hiking temps expected to be in the low- to mid-70's. While cooler and shadier than in Las Cruces, Cloudcroft's higher elevation (8,600 ft vs 3,999 feet) can be taxing for those not acclimated.

We will depart from the parking area/Day Use Area promptly at 10:00 a.m. The area is approximately 1.5 hours north of Las Cruces. There are many other site-seeing areas nearby (White Sands, Bluff Springs, etc.), so adjust your departure time accordingly if you are planning any side trips.

There is a $5 per vehicle fee for the Day Use Area, and we recommend you bring cash. Between the drive up and back, the 1-2 hr hike, and an optional group lunch, the trip will take up the better part of your Saturday. If you are driving and willing to take carpool passengers, please leave a note in the comments!

As always, beginners and newbies welcomed. We will take as many breaks as needed.

Here are the usual things to keep in mind:

• Stay on the trail, don't walk off the trail
• Protect yourself from the sun with sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat
• Take breaks often
• Know your limits and how you're feeling
• Bring ample water and a snack, if you need/want one

Follow Leave No Trace principles

• Don't litter
• Pack out trash, recyclables, and food waste
• Leave the area as you found it

Here a link to the exact location on AllTrails:
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/new-mexico/mexican-canyon-trestle

Caution/Disclaimer: Each individual hiker is responsible for their own personal safety/health and of their guests when participating in Las Cruces Short Hikes activities. The organizers of Las Cruces Short Hikes are not liable for any illness, injury, accident, mechanical break-down, or unforeseen acts that may occur while you participate going to, during, or after any activity. If you have a medical condition that may be aggravated by any kind of physical activity you must make your own personal decision about attending and not hold any of the volunteer organizers liable. All organizers are volunteers and are not compensated during any activity.