Chimayo Castles 360

Please read the entire event description.

DESCRIPTION: A complete circle around the Chimayo Castles

DISTANCE/ASCENT/TERRAIN/COMMITMENT/TYPE: Approximately 6 miles with approximately 700 feet of total ascent. 90% cross country with a few social trails, arroyo crawls, short and repeated ups and downs. Moderate commitment, loop.

RED TAPE/HAZARDS: We will be hiking close to private property. The dogs in this neighborhood are a pain. Not dangerous but freaked out every time I have been here. Ridges tend to be windy. Falling is always the primary hazard.

HIKE LOCATION: Off of Juan Medina Road near Chimayo.

RSVP: Guests not accepted. Have your guests join the group and respond "yes" to the questions when signing on.

PETS: No pets due to the dog problem in this area. Also the rough terrain.

EFFORT/HIKE TIME: Strenuous to very strenuous. Hikers should be able to do Picacho Peak round trip in 140 minutes. Do not underestimate the difficulty. It's a tough nut.
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 hiked this route on 01/02/26.

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. Any vehicle is fine.
Driving Map

CONDITIONS: Little shade. 48 hours dry weather required. Light preciptation on hike is okay. Temperatures below freezing with wind chill in the forecast will cancel. Air quality index of 45 or less. Wind speeds of 15 mph or less. Forecasts of heavy wind conditions or such conditions encountered on the hike may cancel or modify.
Forecast
Current Condtions

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