Ocotillo Hike at Soledad Canyon Trail (with Cottage Foods Sampling)
Details
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate (loose rock on trail.)
Length: an approximate 1.3 mile up-and-back hike (2.6 miles total)
Elevation Gain: 543 feet
Duration: 2 hours
The ocotillos are currently in bloom in Las Cruces. For this hike, we'll hike Soledad Canyon, then gather around the picnic area at the trailhead to sample cottage foods made by area forager Nicole Martinez. Nicole uses the ocotillo blossoms to make syrups, jellies and teas, and also infuses the bark of the plant into balms and soaps. Nicole will tentatively plan on attending, to discuss her techniques for harvest and preparation, and answer questions about traditional foodways.
For this hike, we will do a straight, out-and-back of Soledad Canyon Springs Trail, rather than the longer loop hike. This is a partially shaded hike with a gradual incline, suitable for most hikers. There are ocotillo blooming along the hillsides throughout the canyon. If we get some rain, the waterfall at the end of the trail should be active.
Access: Please meet at the trailhead at Soledad Canyon Day Use Area. Please note there is no restroom at this area.
Directions to the Trailhead: Take Dripping Springs Road and then turn south on Soledad Canyon Road. Follow Soledad Canyon Road all the way to the gated Day Use Area at the end of the road.
Caution/Disclaimer: Hikers are 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.