Point of Interest
This is a challenging, but unforgettable, Pecos Wilderness experience. The views from the top of Jicarita Peak off to the west out across the Rio Grande Valley, and north to the mountains of Colorado, are spectacular. And, the Fall aspens are especially prominent along this route. The trail gets faint above treeline, so routefinding skills are essential. Elk, marmot, ptarmigan, deer, and black bear are some of the wildlife to be found in the area.
Length: 23 Miles
Loop Trail: No
Primary Trail Type: Backcountry, Equestrian Trail
Additional Trail Types: -
Agency: USDA Forest Service
Entry Fee: -
Fee Notes: Optional parking avail. closer to CG Hosts is $3. per vehicle, per day.
Parking Fee: -
Permit Fee: -
Trail Use Notes:
Gates to Forest Roads 116 and 161 are locked Dec. 31 through May 1.
Seasonal Use Notes:
Gates to Forest Roads 116 and 161 are locked Dec. 31 through May 1.
Location: In the Pecos Wilderness, accessed from either the
County: Taos
State: NM
Townships: -
Driving Directions:
Santa Barbara Campground: from Penasco, head southeast on State Road 73,turn left on County Rd. 021. This turns into Santa Barbara Road/Forest Road 116, dead-ending at the Santa Barbara Campground. The trailhead is accessed from the FIRST parking area on the left.
Alamitos (Serpent Lake) Trailhead: from Penasco, head northeast on State Road 75, turn right at the "Rock Wall" onto HWY 516 towards Sipapu Ski Area. Pass Sipapu, continuing southeast. Turn right onto Forest Road 161,dead-ending at the Alamitos Trailhead.
Average Grade: 15%
Maximum Grade: 25%
Elevation High: 12835 Feet
Elevation Low: 8860 Feet
Elevation Gain: -
Average Width: 24 Inches
Minimum Width: undefined Inches
Primary Surface: Soil
Additional Surfaces: Grass or Vegetation
Year Designated: 1979
