River Trail and Little Arsenic Trail
4.2 mi
Distance
2 hrs 4 min
Time
terrain
869 ft
Elev Gain
Overview
This is a easy out and back trail in Rio Grande del Norte National Monument.
Rate this Hike
★★★★★
Beautiful location with a great trail head. Drive there featured wonderful vistas, winding through the Rio Grande Gorge State Park. We saw a herd of big horn sheep, totally fearless, right beside the road as we drove out. Caution, this hike is rated “easy” in Gaia. In my view that’s not accurate. Clearly, to a seasoned hiker in good shape, the trail is not a big deal. However, to me “easy” means its something the kids could tag along safely, or someone with some physical limitations could enjoy. This ain’t that. The descent into the gorge is steep with loose rocks galore. It winds steeply down back and forth and there are points where a misstep or slip could lead to a serious fall and injury. So I would call this “moderate”. Once in the gorge it is straight forward and gorgeous (pun intended). The confluence of the Red River and Rio Grande is a great place to take a break and enjoy the sound of rushing water. At one point we startled an eagle from its nest. Climbing back out of the gorge is strenuous work and your steps must again be carefully placed. Views up the gorge (sun was getting low) were amazing. So go, take poles and good boots, pace yourself and have a great time.
★
★
★
★
★
