Virgin Mesa from Jemez Springs

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Hike Statistics

Nearby City / Locale: Jemez Springs
Hike Difficulty: Moderate
Total Length of Hike: 7.4
Max to Min Elevation: 1584 ft
* Total Ascent / Descent: 3307 / 3344 ft Estimate based on track data

Logistics: Out-and-back
Exposure Type: Mixed sun/shade
Seasons : any
"Wow" Factor: Ancient Site and spectacular red canyons
Authors last hiked: 2026-02-04

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On-line directions to the trailhead:
Google Directions

Scroll down to see photos and additonal information. Click on photos for enlarged view. Red segments on the elevation chart indicate slopes of 18 degrees or higher.

NOTE: The topmost checked item in the 'Tracks' box (in the upper right-hand corner of the map) will display its elevation chart and hike data. Turn tracks on and off for display.

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TRAIL TIPS!

Super scenic trail hike (with 20 numbered marker signs) that starts at Valles Caldera National Preserve Headquarters, 90 Villa Louis Martin Dr, Jemez Springs, NM 87025.

About this hike:

Super scenic trail hike (with 20 numbered marker signs) that starts at Valles Caldera National Preserve Headquarters Jemez Springs, NM 87025.

Park at headquarters, walk due west to NW corner of the parking lot and look for a faint boot path leading up to an old dirt road cut. Keep bearing left and hike up to the top of the mesa. Best views are not on the slope you are hiking but opposite (east) towards Cat Mesa.

The end of the track shows the large ancient site but there is nothing there except for boulders arranged in squares and rectangles.

Hiking beyond the end of the GPS track to the west and southwest will in 2 miles take you to Virgin Canyon above the mythical Virgin Falls.  

Related Hike Information REFERENCES: List of All Site Book References
Click on any photo for an enlarged view