Powerline Point trail(edit)

Overview

Powerline Point trail is a moderate out-and-back trail on Department of Energy Land near White Rock, New Mexico. The trail is on an old road parallel to a powerline and ends on the rim of the 1,000-foot-deep White Rock Canyon. The route traverses open piñon and juniper woodlands on one of the many mesas extending eastward from the foothills of the Jemez Mountains. The open terrains can be warm at mid-day in summer. The road is rocky but easy to travel as it descends into a broad valley. As the trail begins to climb out of the valley toward the canyon rim, watch for colorful Paintbrush flowers amid the trees. At the top of the hill, find a spectacular view of White Rock Canyon and the Rio Grande that flows through it.

Getting Started

Reach the trailhead from the intersection of New Mexico Highway 4 and Pajarito Road in White Rock by traveling south for 3.2 miles on Highway 4. Find a wide dirt parking area on the east side of the road near Gate 4. A trailhead kiosk near the gate shows a map of the Powerline Point Trail.

Taking Children

This is not the most interesting hike for children, but it is fairly easy and short.