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5 Unforgettable Secrets Of The Slide Trail Upper Trailhead (Taos, NM) You Must Know Before You Hike

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The Slide Trail Upper Trailhead in Taos County, New Mexico, represents one of the most fascinating and historically rich hiking and mountain biking destinations in the American Southwest, offering an unparalleled descent into the dramatic Rio Grande Gorge. As of today, December 24, 2025, the trail remains a beloved, moderately challenging route that rewards adventurers with breathtaking views and a unique connection to the region’s geological past.

This trail is not just a path through nature; it is a monument to a catastrophic natural event. The "slide" in its name refers to the massive landslide that permanently closed a section of an old New Mexico State Road, transforming a public highway into a rugged, scenic multi-use trail. Understanding this history is key to appreciating the unique landscape you will traverse from the Upper Trailhead.

Profile: The Slide Trail (Taos, New Mexico)

The Slide Trail, particularly when accessed from its Upper Trailhead, is a geological and historical anomaly. It is located within the expansive and ecologically significant Rio Grande del Norte National Monument, managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). The trail’s distinct character comes from its origin as a segment of the former New Mexico State Road 570 (NM 570), a route that once hugged the steep walls of the Rio Grande Gorge before being buried by a massive rockslide.

  • Official Name: The Slide Trail (often combined with the Picuris Trail for a loop).
  • Location: Taos County, New Mexico, near Ranchos de Taos.
  • Managed By: Bureau of Land Management (BLM), Rio Grande del Norte National Monument.
  • Upper Trailhead Access: Located at the end of County Road C-110 (CR 110), a dirt road south of Taos.
  • Trail Origin: A defunct section of the former NM 570 highway.
  • Distance (Upper to Lower): Approximately 2 miles (3.2 km) one way.
  • Total Loop Distance (with Picuris Trail): Approximately 4-5 miles (6.4-8 km) round trip.
  • Elevation Change: Significant descent into the gorge, making the return trip a challenging climb.
  • Difficulty Rating: Moderate to Challenging (for the climb back up). Mountain biking is rated Blue (Intermediate/Moderate).
  • Key Features: Dramatic gorge views, ancient petroglyphs, archaeological sites, and a rugged, rocky surface.
  • Wildlife Spotting: Potential sightings of bighorn sheep, raptors, and various desert wildlife.

1. The Catastrophic Origin: From State Road to Scenic Slide

The first and most critical secret of The Slide Trail is its dramatic history. This is not a purpose-built hiking path; it is the scar of a natural disaster that was repurposed for recreation. The trail was once a functioning public highway, a section of New Mexico State Road 570 (NM 570), which connected travelers along the western rim of the Rio Grande Gorge.

In the mid-20th century, the road was permanently closed following a significant landslide that buried a large portion of the route under tons of rock and debris. This event, which gave the trail its name, effectively cut off the road, making it impassable for vehicles and turning it into a rugged, scenic corridor.

Hiking or biking The Slide Trail today means traversing the very site of this geological event. The trail surface is often a mix of packed dirt and loose rock, testament to the unstable, steep-walled gorge environment. This history makes the trail a unique example of human infrastructure succumbing to, and then coexisting with, the raw power of nature.

2. Navigating the Upper Trailhead and the Descent Challenge

The Upper Trailhead is the most common starting point for hikers and mountain bikers looking to experience the full drama of the gorge. It is typically found at the terminus of a dirt road, County Road 110 (CR 110), just south of Taos.

Starting at the top means the entire first half of your journey is a descent. While many hikers find the trip down into the Rio Grande Gorge relatively easy, the return trip is where the "Challenging" rating comes into play. The trail drops steeply, meaning the final two miles back to your vehicle are a strenuous, uphill climb, especially difficult under the intense New Mexico sun or for those not accustomed to high-desert elevation.

The Upper Trailhead offers ample parking but few amenities, so hikers must be prepared with sufficient water, sun protection, and appropriate gear. This trailhead provides immediate access to the panoramic views along the rim before the dramatic drop, making it the preferred choice for photographers and those seeking the most rewarding vistas.

3. The Secret Loop: Connecting to the Picuris Trail

For a complete and varied experience, the true local secret is to combine The Slide Trail with the adjacent Picuris Trail to form a popular loop. The Slide Trail descends from the Upper Trailhead to the river's edge, near the Taos Junction Bridge and the Lower Trailhead on the current NM 570.

Once at the bottom, you can cross the road and connect to the Picuris Trail. This trail follows the river and offers a different perspective of the gorge environment, often leading to hidden coves and unique riverside views. The loop allows you to experience both the high-desert rim and the riparian zone of the Rio Grande, providing a diverse ecological experience.

Completing the loop typically involves arranging a shuttle (if you start and end at different points) or preparing for a longer, more moderate round-trip hike. This combined route is a favorite for mountain biking enthusiasts due to the technical descent and varied terrain.

4. Ancient Wonders: Petroglyphs and Archaeological Sites

The Slide Trail is not only a geological wonder but also a cultural treasure chest. The Rio Grande del Norte National Monument is rich in archaeological history, and the trail is one of the best places to witness this heritage firsthand. As you hike, keep an eye out for ancient petroglyphs carved into the canyon walls and boulders.

These rock carvings are remnants of the ancestral Puebloan people who inhabited this region for centuries. They offer a tangible link to the past, depicting symbols, animals, and human figures. It is crucial for all visitors to practice responsible recreation: observe the petroglyphs from a distance, never touch or deface them, and respect the cultural significance of the entire area.

The entire gorge area is considered an important archaeological landscape, with numerous sites that provide insight into early human settlements and resource use near the Rio Grande.

5. Current Conditions and Essential Preparation for a 2025 Hike

Given the trail's history as a landslide zone and its location in a high-desert environment, current conditions are a vital consideration for any hike in 2025. While the trail is generally open and well-maintained by the BLM, it is susceptible to weather changes.

  • Monsoon Season: Heavy summer rains can cause flash flooding in the gorge and make the trail surface muddy and slick, increasing the risk of rockfall.
  • Winter Conditions: While Taos winters bring snow, the low elevation of the gorge trail often means it is accessible, though ice can make the steep descent hazardous.
  • Water & Sun: The high altitude of Taos County and the lack of shade in the gorge demand that hikers carry a minimum of two liters of water per person, even for a short hike. Sunscreen and a hat are non-negotiable.
  • Wildlife: Be aware of local wildlife, including rattlesnakes, especially during warmer months. The area is also home to bighorn sheep, which are a spectacular sight to behold from a safe distance.

Before heading to the Upper Trailhead, always check the BLM website for the Rio Grande del Norte National Monument for the latest alerts and closures. The unique blend of history, challenging terrain, and spectacular views makes The Slide Trail one of New Mexico's most rewarding and unforgettable outdoor adventures.

5 Unforgettable Secrets of The Slide Trail Upper Trailhead (Taos, NM) You Must Know Before You Hike
the slide trail upper trailhead
the slide trail upper trailhead

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