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Rio Chiquito Trail

Carson National Forest, New Mexico · 3 min read

Distance
6 mi
Elevation Gain
1,400 ft
Difficulty
moderate
Route Type
Out-And-Back
Best Season
May through October
Dog Friendly
Yes
Difficulty Score
5 / 10
Trailhead Amenities
Restroom
None
Parking
Free
Cell Service
No Signal
Water
Nearby
Camping
Dispersed
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Conditions, regulations, and fees change frequently. Verify with the local ranger district before your trip. Full disclaimer

At a Glance

  • Quiet canyon hiking away from the busier Wheeler Peak and Williams Lake corridors
  • Rio Chiquito creek running through mixed conifer and aspen forest
  • Mule deer and wild turkey regularly seen in the lower drainage
  • Strong fall color in the aspen groves from late September through mid-October
  • Access to the broader Columbine-Hondo Wilderness from the upper trail

Overview

The Rio Chiquito Trail follows its namesake creek through a quiet drainage east of Taos in Carson National Forest. This is the kind of trail that rewards hikers looking to escape the crowds at Williams Lake and Wheeler Peak: the forest is similar, the canyon scenery is comparable, and the trail sees a fraction of the visitor traffic of the ski valley approaches.

The route climbs 1,400 feet over 3 miles through a mix of ponderosa pine, mixed conifer, and aspen. The creek is present throughout the lower trail and provides water for wildlife that make the drainage productive for animal sightings: mule deer, wild turkey, and the occasional elk are regularly seen. The upper trail climbs toward the Columbine-Hondo Wilderness boundary, where connecting trails provide access to more remote terrain.

Fall color in the aspen groves is the peak season on this trail. The combination of the creek, the canyon walls, and the aspen gold creates a classic northern New Mexico fall experience without the competition for parking that comes with more famous destinations.

The Route

Miles 0 to 2: Trailhead to Mid-Canyon. The trail begins at a gravel pullout and follows the creek upstream immediately. Mixed conifer forest lines the canyon; the creek runs on the right side of the trail for the first mile before the trail crosses to the left bank. The grade is moderate and steady. Wild turkey are frequently spotted in the ponderosa-dominated sections in early morning.

Miles 2 to 3: Upper Canyon and Aspen Zone. The trail enters denser aspen groves above mile 2. In late September and early October, these sections are brilliant gold. The trail steepens slightly approaching the Columbine-Hondo Wilderness boundary at mile 3, which serves as the day-hike turnaround point.

When to Visit

May through October. Spring creek levels can be high in May; by June the crossings are manageable. Fall color peaks in late September. Summer is pleasant in the shaded canyon sections, though afternoon thunderstorms require awareness above the canyon floor.

What to Bring

Many hikers carry the following:

  • Waterproof boots for spring creek crossings
  • Trekking poles (creek crossings and canyon footing)
  • Water (treat creek water)
  • Layers (the canyon is cooler than open terrain)

Practical Details

No permit required (as of 2026). No trailhead facilities. Dispersed camping is permitted with Leave No Trace guidelines. The trail is managed by the Camino Real Ranger District of Carson National Forest.

Getting There

From Taos, head east on US Highway 64 toward Cimarron. Turn north on Forest Road 437, which is signed for the Rio Chiquito drainage. The trailhead pullout is approximately 8 miles from the highway junction. Road conditions vary; a high-clearance vehicle is recommended. Drive time from Taos is approximately 30-40 minutes. Download an offline map before departing as cell service is limited beyond the forest road junction.

Trailhead Parking

Rio Chiquito Trailhead off Forest Road 437, east of Taos. Gravel pullout for 8-10 vehicles. No fee.

← Back to Carson National Forest

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Frequently Asked Questions

How does Rio Chiquito compare to the busier Carson trails near Taos Ski Valley?
Rio Chiquito sees a fraction of the traffic of Williams Lake and Wheeler Peak. The canyon setting and forest character are rewarding, and hikers seeking solitude on summer weekends are more likely to find it here than at the ski valley trailheads.
Are there creek crossings on Rio Chiquito?
Yes. The trail crosses Rio Chiquito several times. In spring and early summer, crossings can be ankle- to knee-deep from snowmelt. By July they are typically easy rock-hops. Trekking poles are useful for early season visits.
Is this trail good for fall color?
Yes. The aspen groves in the Rio Chiquito drainage offer solid fall color, typically peaking in late September to early October. The canyon setting frames the color well.