The Soledad Canyon Loop Trail Is A Beautiful Hike In New Mexico That Leads To A Secret Waterfall
By Michelle|Published March 18, 2020
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Michelle
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Michelle's life is a colorful map of exploration and adventure. From the iconic streets of New York to the sunny shores of Florida, the jagged coast of Maine to the rugged terrain of Montana, she's been fortunate to call some of America's most beautiful states home. Beyond the U.S., Michelle's wanderlust has taken her on a motorcycle journey through India, led her to teach English in Hanoi, and saw her studying Spanish in Guatemala. Michelle graduated with a communications degree from the S. I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University and in addition to a career in advertising has worked with OnlyInYourState since 2016, where her love for travel and storytelling converges. Alongside writing and exploring, Michelle finds joy in photography, staying active, and time with her family.
For questions, comments and inquiries please email: mstarin@onlyinyourstate.com.
There are so many ways to enjoy the outdoors here in New Mexico. With weather that’s lovely most of the year and such a diversely beautiful landscape, spending time outside is an easy choice — especially when it comes to clearing the mind and finding some peace in troubling times. Here’s a great hike to take that will do just that.
You’ll find the 3.3-mile Soledad Canyon Loop Trail near Las Cruces. We love that it’s well-marked and flat, making it a good option for most hikers who have mobility.
The views along the route are simply beautiful and include lots of unique desert plants and flowers. Be sure to look up and around so you don’t miss the rock formations surrounding you.
The trail probably won’t take all day, but you’ll want to make sure to factor in enough time to stop to see the sights and take some photos. There are tons of small pieces of beauty here that you won’t want to miss.
Once you’ve gone about halfway, you’ll find a fork in the trail. Continue on the route that feels straight and you’ll eventually get to the big payoff!
You can expect the waterfall to have a steady flow of water in the winter and spring months, but if you choose to do this hike in the summer you’re likely to find a fairly dry situation. Once you’ve had your fill, head back to the fork and continue the loop.
And, of course, while the trail is mostly flat, you’ll still want to wear sturdy shoes to avoid slipping on the gravel. And always carry water with you.
To access the trailhead, head down University Avenue towards Soledad Canyon Road. You’ll follow Soledad Canyon Road until the pavement ends where you’ll see the parking lot.