Chimayo Castles Short Tour

Please read the entire event description.

DESCRIPTION: High value hike for the effort with national park level scenery little known or travelled.

Photo Gallery One
Photo Gallery Two

DISTANCE/ASCENT/TERRAIN/COMMITMENT/TYPE: 4 miles or less, 600 feet cumulative ascent or less. Very complex terrain with frequent ups and downs, multiple arroyo crossings. Short bit of dirt road, then cross country with a few vague trails. We will need to cross 1 or 2 barb wire fences. Commitment is low. We are at the border of Chimayo village. Out and back or semi-loop.

RED TAPE/HAZARDS: We will be passing close by private property but will remain on public land. Falls are always the primary hazard.

HIKE LOCATION: Starts at the Chimayo Catholic Cemetery.

EFFORT/HIKE TIME: Moderate plus. 3 to 4 hours hike time.
Hikers should be able to hike round trip on Sun Mountain in 90 minutes or Picacho Peak in 140 min. These times take into account slower descent.

Sun Mountain
Picacho Peak

Event and hike times are estimates. It is wise to not schedule anything important or set a time limit due to other commitments.

HISTORY: The host has hiked this area in 3 times in 2022 and this specific route in 2025.

SPECIAL GEAR NOTE: Lots of spines here. Pack light. Soft soled and ventilated sneakers or boots will tend to get stabbed.

GEAR:
-2 liters of water is considered a minimum. More food than you expect to need.
-Light, quick drying, warmth layers, extra pair of socks.
-Good and tested rain gear.
-Headlamp and spare batteries, whistle or noise making device.
-Phone with optional mapping software or a paper map and compass.
-Optional personal locater beacon or InReach device.
-Long pants and hiking poles are recommended.

HIKER RESPONSIBILITY: Hikers are responsible for reading and understanding the entire trip description and getting clarification if needed. Hikers have total responsibility for their safety and well being and assign no liability to the host or any other participant. Passengers assume risk of transport to and from the trailhead. Drivers assume responsibility for safe practice behind the wheel. Do not sign onto this hike if you are not capable of meeting minimum requirements. If any hiker at any time feels that they cannot continue for any reason, they should say so. In that case the hike will be modified but distance and climb may increase based on commitment. Treat hiking companions with respect and keep belongings close at all times.

The hosts advises hikers to keep phone numbers of emergency contacts available.

HOW WE HIKE: Stay together. Be within sight or earshot at all times. If hikers need to stop for anything please say so and the group stops also. Stop at all junctions or any place that looks like one. The hike host provides the route. If travel is cross country, please take your own line where needed. In loose or rough terrain we keep a distance between each other to avoid debris from falling on us. All follow the host and and can provide collaborative input but the route will not be changed unless there is need as determined by conditions or discomfort of participants. Note that any route change may result in longer distances and/or climbs for everyone.

TRANSPORTATION: The drive is 52 miles and 1 hour round trip. Bring $5.00 for gas. We will meet at De Vargas Mall next to Dr. Melton's office.
Driving Map

CONDITIONS: We will be in the Sun for the most part but shade is accessible. We will need dry weather on hike day and 48 hours before. Significant snow on the ground will cancel. Air quality index of 45 or less.
Forecast
Current Conditions

CANCELLATION or CHANGES: The trip could be modified or cancelled at short notice. Check this description 12 and 2 hours before meet time.