When the weather is beautiful in the Land of Enchantment, one of the best activities is to get outside and hit one of our numerous, incredible hiking trails. This lake trail is situated within the Pecos Wilderness near Santa Fe, and is one of the more accessible lakes within our forests. While this trail is rated as moderate, bring your best hiking boots as there is a bit of an incline. You’ll be rewarded for your hard work with breathtaking views throughout this lake trail in New Mexico, and especially at the end of the trail when you reach the natural oasis that is Stewart Lake. Let’s get ready for an other-worldly hiking experience deep within the Pecos Wilderness.

Welcome to Stewart Lake Trail in the Pecos Wilderness near Santa Fe!
Miguel Navrot/AllTrails
This moderate hike can either be treated as an out-and-back or a loop-trail, depending which direction you take.
Laura Burnham/AllTrails
All in all, you'll spend about 11 miles hiking throughout this beautiful forest to get to the oasis at the end.
Yu Chen/AllTrails
Throughout your trek, you'll come across many overlooks, streams, and even unforgettable fields of wildflowers.
Peter VanHaverbeke/AllTrails

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After about six miles of hiking, you'll reach Stewart Lake.
Miguel Navrot/AllTrails
This refreshing lake is a hidden, peaceful oasis in the desert.
Joan David/AllTrails
While you might come across some fishermen or fellow hikers, this lake is relatively remote and offers the best relaxing atmosphere before your return hike out of the wilderness.
Laura Burnham/AllTrails
For breathtaking views of New Mexico's wilderness and a hidden oasis unlike any other, head on over to Stewart Lake Trail.
Yu Chen/AllTrails
Address: Forest Road 121 & NM-63, NM, 87573

For easiest access to the trailhead, park at Cowles Pond.

Have you ever taken this awesome lake hike? Was it full of beautiful views? We’d love to hear all about your hiking experiences in the comments, and don’t forget to then go share photos from your New Mexico adventures with us in our New Mexico Nature Lovers Facebook group, or tag us on Instagram by tagging #onlyinnewmexico for a chance to be featured.

For another incredible lake hike in the Land of Enchantment, check out this mountain lake trail in Taos.

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