Carson National Forest
Yerba Canyon Trail 61

Questa Ranger District

Elevations:

• Trail Beginning: 8,200 ft
• Trail End: 11,800 ft

This trailhead is one mile east (up the hill) from the Upper Cuchilla Campground on State Road 150, the road to Taos Ski Valley. The trailhead is located at the end of a short access road and parking is available there.

This 3.9 mile trail follows the bottom of Yerba Canyon as it climbs the south facing slope of Rio Hondo, gaining 3,600 feet in elevation between the aspens and willows at the bottom and the spruce and fir near the top of the ridge. The avalanche hazard is considerable during the winter and early spring. Motorized vehicles and equipment are not allowed on the trail.

This trail gives access to Lobo Peak, Gold Hill, Flag Mountain and the Columbine/Hondo Wilderness Study Area. If you go all the way to the summit of Lobo Peak, the views are simply incredible.

Rating: Difficult, due to the elevation gain

USGS Quad: Arroyo Seco