When it comes to summer hikes and lakes, most New Mexicans know of all the hot spots for cooler temperatures; Ruidoso and Cloudcroft are just a couple of notable examples. If you’re searching for a location that’s hidden from the crowds, you’ll want to consider a day trip to the San Gregorio Reservoir.

Located about 25 minutes east of Cuba (in north-central New Mexico, not the island country), San Gregorio Reservoir is a moderately-sized lake that is part of the San Pedro Parks Wilderness Area.
KrisNM/Flickr
It's a picturesque spot that feels sequestered from the rest of the world.
To get to the lake, you'll need to embark on a one-mile trail that begins just beyond the small parking lot.
Max Amillion/AllTrails
The trail is well-marked and easy-to-follow; most of it is also shaded and has very little elevation gain, so it makes for an easy trek that the entire family can enjoy.
Luke Frerichs/Google
Parts of the trail can be a bit rocky, so keep that in mind when bringing young children or small dogs.

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Along the way, you'll find lots of towering aspens, green spruce trees, streams to cross, and perhaps even wildflowers if the timing is just right.
Renee Latham/Google
For a longer nature walk, trek around the lake to add an extra mile.
The reservoir sits in the middle of a picturesque green meadow and makes for a great picnicking destination or a spot to fish for trout.
Luke Frerichs/Google
Have you visited this location before? Where else do you like to head for a short getaway from the city or hot temperatures?
San Gregorio Reservoir and the hiking trail are located in the San Pedro Parks Wilderness Area, approximately 13 miles east of Cuba.
Google Maps

Details about accessing the lake and trails can be found on the U.S. Forest Service website or on the AllTrails website.

Website: U.S. Forest Service
Trail details: AllTrails
Location: Google Maps

Looking for another reason to leave town for cooler temperatures? Get ready to hit the road for a lovely day trip when you embark on one of New Mexico’s dozens of scenic byways. Read some of our favorite forest byway destinations in Escape Into New Mexico’s Forests This Summer On These 5 Scenic Byways.

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San Gregorio Reservoir, New Mexico 87027, USA