Trail Overview

Forest Service Road 134A is a steep, rocky road that leads to Cabresto Lake; it's a beautiful mountain lake surrounded by the high peaks of Carson National Forest. The trail is narrow and consists of sharp rocks no larger than 12 inches in height. High-clearance 4x4 is recommended but high-clearance AWD SUVs should be able to make it up to the lake with extreme caution. This out-and-back trail traverses along the side of a valley and offers great views of Carson National Forest. Cabresto Lake sits at the end of the trail and is a popular spot for picnics, fishing, kayaking, hiking, and camping. The lake is one of the few places in New Mexico for catching brook trout. There are wild chipmunks and birds including woodpeckers and cardinals. There are 9 designated primitive campsites available on a first-come, first-served basis. No permit is required and there are picnic tables and a vault toilet in the middle of the parking lot. This trail is also heavily trafficked by side-by-sides. The lake is generally open from May to November.

Photos of Cabresto Lake - FS 134A

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Difficulty

This trail has sharp, rocky terrain. Airing down is recommended.

Technical Rating

G Griff

Oct 20, 2025

2020 Jeep Wrangler

Open

NormalDustyWashboard

Stefan Brady

Jun 22, 2025

2023 Toyota 4Runner

Open

Normal

Lots of people. Easy to pass. Beautiful view once you make it to the lake.

Jared Andrade

May 24, 2025

Open

DustyRough/Deteriorated

John Thornton

Jul 11, 2024

Open

Corey Wall

Jun 13, 2024

2023 Ford Bronco

Open

DustyNormal

Niko Azucenas

May 27, 2024

Open

NormalDusty

Reached Cabrestro Lake via FS-134. Gravel roads the entire time, not technical at all. There is a winding portion, all inclined, if you drive a full size be wary of the tighter turns as you won’t see oncoming vehicles on the climb down.

Benjamin Foss

May 05, 2024

Open

Normal

Driven on May 5-6. Trail was dry with no snow or mud. Saw no one on the way up or down but a couple people came and went while I was at the lake. Only in other camper came on a Sunday night. I only found 5 campsites, not 9, but still plenty of space. Some great hiking right there as well, and a vault toilet. Great views, easy (but rocky) trail that most 4WD SUVs should be able to manage with ease. I did not encounter any wildlife aside from a few birds. Definitely would come back.

Zach H

Mar 07, 2024

Open

Muddy/WetSnow/Ice

1 more week snowmelt made the difference, was a fun and slightly challenging drive up to the top and an easy walk down to the lake which is still frozen. The route is mostly uncovered and where there is snow you can generally see down to the gravel/rock road. 4lo and center diff locked to be safe but any decent 4x4 should be fine. Recommend parking right before it opens up for the turnaround at the top as that is still pretty deep and slushy.