Soledad Canyon Road Loop(edit)

Overview

This is an easy loop trail in Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument. The trail ascends gradually through the foothills and quickly reaches the base of the sheer rock walls of the Organ Mountains, ending in a dry but sometimes spectacular waterfall. Along the way are homestead ruins and an incredible assortment of wildflowers in spring, summer, and fall. The best route is to take the first fork to the left (about a quarter mile from the trailhead), cross the arroyo, and follow the singletrack upslope. Near the rock cliff, the trail fragments into many social trails, but just head into the canyon to reach the waterfall. On the way back, take the left forks to wander along the base of the cliffs for a mile before turning right and following an old road back to the trailhead.

Getting Started

Getting to the trailhead is straightforward from Las Cruces, heading toward the mountains on Dripping Springs Road and, a mile beyond Tortuga Mountain, turning right onto Soledad Canyon Road. Follow this road to the end where a large day-use parking lot accommodates most vehicles (my 21-foot RV has no trouble making the sharp turn at the end of the road).