Dragons Back Loop

Please read the entire event description.

NOTE: This is the replacement hike for the Santa Cruz Lake Overlook event which will be scheduled at a later date. All RSVPS are maintained. Please manage yours if you cannot attend.

DESCRIPTION: A loop up and around the Dragon's Back at Red Wash Canyon.
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DISTANCE/ASCENT/TERRAIN/COMMITMENT/TYPE: 3.06 miles/711 feet ascent exactly. Little shade. Low commitment. Sandy wash, steep climb on narrow (but not too narrow) ridge, social trail, ATV track. Loop.

RED TAPE/HAZARDS: Parking is off the highway. Caution required due to possible mud at trail head. Attention is required on the ridge. Low temperatures and wind can hypothermia hazard. Falling is always the primary danger.

HIKE LOCATION: Red Wash Canyon near Abiquiu.

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

PETS: No pets due to sections of exposure.

EFFORT/HIKE TIME: Moderate+. Hikers should be able to hike round trip on Sun Mountain in 90 minutes.

Sun Mountain

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 several times, last being 09/21/25.

GEAR NOTE: Bring traction devices. We likely will encounter snow on the ground. This is a lightly travelled area but spikes should be carried for safety.

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: Round trip statistics are 51.1 miles and 58 minutes one way. Bring $10.00 for gas. Any vehicle is acceptable.
Driving Map

CONDITIONS: Little shade. Heavy precipitation up to 24 hours before hike day will cancel. Light preciptation on hike is okay but may change the direction of the loop. Temperatures below freezing along with wind chill in the forecast will cancel. Air quality index of 45 or less required. Wind speeds of 15 mph or less. Forecasts of windy conditions with gusts or such conditions encountered on the hike will cancel or modify.
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.