A bird sitting on a nest of eggs.

Hiking Near La Plata, New Mexico

Regional Classics Icon

Regional Classics

Discover the must-do hikes in the area, handpicked and curated by local experts who know the trails best. These routes are beloved for good reason, offering standout scenery, rewarding terrain, and detailed descriptions with tips that tell you exactly what to expect. Whether you are visiting for the first time or are a local doing them on repeat, they offer a reliable and memorable hiking experience.

Smelter Mountain Trail

Classic Hike Route

Smelter Mountain Trail

Birding
strenuous
3.9 mi
+1,517 ft
Shorter Routes icon

Shorter Routes

These hikes keep it under 5 miles and climb less than 1,500 feet, making them ideal for quicker outings or lower-key days. Perfect for a morning stretch, a casual afternoon, or getting outside without committing to a big push. Don’t let the stats fool you — many still pack in great views and rewarding moments.

Balcony House Trail

Hike Route

Balcony House Trail

Family Friendly
moderate
0.42 mi
+163 ft
Soda Canyon Trail

Hike Route

Soda Canyon Trail

Less Crowded
easy
1.28 mi
+84 ft
Cliff Palace

Hike Route

Cliff Palace

Views
easy
0.31 mi
+299 ft
Sun Temple

Hike Route

Sun Temple

Views
easy
0.12 mi
+0 ft
Square House Tower Overlook

Hike Route

Square House Tower Overlook

Views
easy
0.1 mi
+0 ft
Petroglyph Point Trail

Hike Route

Petroglyph Point Trail

Cave
moderate
2.56 mi
+1,023 ft

Other Nearby Routes

Not finding what you're looking for? These additional nearby hikes offer more ways to get outside and explore the area. With a mix of lengths, difficulty levels, and terrain, you're likely to find something that fits your plans for the day. And remember, you can always use the onX Route Builder to create your own adventure from scratch.

Prater Ridge Trail

Hike Route

Prater Ridge Trail

Views
moderate
7.24 mi
+1,077 ft