The weather is slowly warming up, and that means it’s time to get ready to enjoy the sunshine and warmer weather. If you’re looking for a short but sweet trail to spend a later winter or early spring afternoon on, then you’re going to love this one little trail here in New Mexico.
We suggest checking out the interpretive trail at the Santa Fe Canyon Preserve, which is located just outside Santa Fe, less than four miles from the city’s historic plaza.
Robin Parker/AllTrails
The trail itself is short, sweet, and easy to follow, a perfect way to experience the area’s beauty. Measuring just 1.3 miles in a loop, the trail follows a portion of the Santa Fe River and allows visitors to explore the historic dam dating to 1881.
Julia Drahn/AllTrails
You’ll find yourself exploring all the little hidden areas here, wondering what surprises lie in the lush riparian area.
Jamie Whitten/AllTrails
On the short trek, you’ll come across the old Stone Dam, a sediment fence built in the 1940s by the Works Progress Administration (WPA), beaver homes, and marshy areas that hundreds of species of birds call home every year.
Jorge Sanchez/AllTrails
It’s also a lovely sight in winter! Just be careful to avoid slipping on ice.
K. Berry/AllTrails
Santa Fe Canyon Preserve Interpretive Trail is located near Santa Fe at the Santa Fe Canyon Preserve. You can find details about the preserve at the Nature Conservancy website and a map of the trail at this link. You can also find more trail details on the AllTrails website.
Robin Parker/AllTrails
Julia Drahn/AllTrails
Jamie Whitten/AllTrails
Jorge Sanchez/AllTrails
K. Berry/AllTrails
Looking for more short hikes with beautiful views? Read about some fantastic trails in 8 Amazing New Mexico Hikes Under 3 Miles You’ll Absolutely Love.
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