An Easy But Gorgeous Hike, Red River Nature Trail Leads To A Little-Known River In New Mexico
By Celina Colby|Published April 12, 2022
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Celina Colby
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Celina Colby is a Boston-based writer and native New Englander who has been covering travel, arts, food, and culture nationally for ten years. When she's not on deadline you can often find her reading, sewing, and searching for the perfect empanada.
Located near the Red River resort town in New Mexico, this 3.2-mile out and back trail is a beautiful and invigorating stroll along Red River that is accessible to all hiking skill levels.
The trail can be hiked year-round and each visit provides a different perspective into the New Mexico landscape. In the summer, hikers enjoy the lush growth and can spot native plants on the journey.
In the colder months, the river becomes the winter fishery for the nearby town of Tao. Visitors can fish and ski along the same river while watching professional fishermen score rainbow trout and big browns.
The Red River derives its water from snowmelt, so you'll notice a particularly robust and rushing water supply in the spring as the winter snow melts off the local terrain.
Past hikers say the wildlife is abundant on the trail and taking your time to enjoy all the natural wonders along the trail is key to maximizing your hike.
Previous hikers have said that they use this trail as a cool down after enjoying the more rigorous Enchanted Circle Drive hike. Small children love stopping at the river, wading in, and skipping rocks along the waterway.
Though the hike is accessible to all skill levels, it requires more attention than a casual stroll. Hikers have noted that in some cases there are spots of loose gravel and other rocky areas that are not insurmountable but require negotiation. Others have commented that the trail is child friendly despite these points.
If you’re looking for a beautiful and accessible hike in New Mexico that provides a thorough overview of the region’s flora, fauna and natural ecosystem, the Red River Trail is the right hike for you.
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