Trail Overview

This route connects the Old State Highway 279 off Highway 550 with South Pipeline Road, or Backway to Cabezon Peak. There is one major obstacle through the Rio Puerco Arroyo at the northern end. The water can run deep through the narrow, steep drainage and both sides can be slick.

Photos of North Pipeline Road

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Difficulty

There are numerous ruts and erosion issues.

History

The spectacular Cabezon Peak rises prominently to the west of this route. Cabezon Peak is a large volcanic plug rising to 7,785 feet in elevation, and nearly 2,000 feet above the floor of the Rio Puerco Valley.

Technical Rating

Jen MacCornack

May 11, 2025

Open

At the crossing of the Rio Puerco River, it was washed out, with steep "Islands" is the crossing. Waded in, water was up to knee with thick mud. Decided it was not worth the potential risks.

Tracy Schmitz

Apr 21, 2025

Open

no cell service and the map kept lagging. The trail was easy except for when we went onto the wrong trail because of the lagging map. Beautiful scenery.