Hike New Mexico
w/Tom & Ken
San Ysidro Trials
Hike Statistics
Nearby City / Locale:
San Ysidro
Hike Difficulty:
Moderate
Total Length of Hike:
3.7
Max to Min Elevation:
212 ft
* Total Ascent / Descent:
466 /
386 ft
Estimate based on track data
Logistics: Loop
Exposure Type: Full sun
Seasons :
Not Summer
"Wow" Factor: Colorful Canyons
Authors last hiked: 2025-02-25
More!
View Full Page Map
Download GPX File
For additional photos, click here:
Photo Album Link
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.
If you are having problems with this page, please: send us a note!

TRAIL TIPS!
The San Ysidro Trials area is used locally for dirt bike trials several times a year, so please check online (NMTA Home Page) to make sure you are not going when one of those events is scheduled.
It is best to drive up to the parking lot (1.2 miles from US 550), but this requires getting past the locked gate. The BLM uses a combo lock with 4-digits: first two for month, second two for year. Note - if near a month start, it may still be set to the previous month. The correct lock is depicted in the photos (below) - second lock from the left, silver w/Forest Service decal.
Although the San Ysidro Trials area is used for several motorbike events, most of the year it is vacated. Drive up to the parking area past the locked gate (see Trail Tips) where there is an information kiosk. Park anywhere - multiple trail heads surround the area.
There are two hikes described on this page, the first occurring in 2016, a wetter year. Several pockets of water were encountered to make for an interesting walk. This hike is labeled 'San Ysidro Trials' in the trackbox in the upper right corner of the map. By default it is not shown. To see the track, check the corresponding checkbox.
The second hike occurred in 2025 and ventures to the East Canyon for some spectacular views. This hike is a bit more challenging as the terrain is quite uneven, and you are required to step down into a small valley, then re-ascend, in order to cross over a tributary canyon (Note the green flag on the map). Parts of the trail disappear over the bedrock, so it is recommended you use a GPX track to follow the correct route. Eventually, heading north to the Jemez Pueblo boundary, rock cairns can be located which enhance your ability to locate the route. At times, the dirt trail will reappear.
Once the trail departs from the canyon views in the south end, the trail is visible and enters more open land. There is a wide variety of terrain and views which make this hike worth the effort, and it is unlikely you will encounter other hikers.