Atalaya Trail is a very serviceable and enjoyable trail.  It's just the right length for an…read moreafternoon (or morning) hike, and it offers just enough elevation gain that you won't be bored by the level of endeavor required.  That said, apart from the views you'll be rewarded with when you're here, there's not a whole lot else of interest to see during your visit. Tip: This is a popular destination for both hikers and cyclists; both of the aforementioned need to keep their eyes peeled for their opposite numbers; hikers especially need to exercise caution to avoid being hit by oblivious cyclists. I've been here several times recently, and very much enjoy myself each time.  I've found that the views (especially from the top) are very rewarding.  Because it's very easily accessible from all over the area, the trail can sometimes get very crowded; it's best to visit either in the early morning or at off-peak hours to optimize avoid the crowds. The trail winds through the Cruz Blanca neighborhood before rapidly ascending up the side of Atalaya Mountain; it eventually reaches a height of just over nine thousand feet.  While the final stretch is quite gravelly and steep, the views from the top are totally worth it!

Part of the Dale Ball trail system, that include the Dorothy Stewart and Wilderness Trailheads. The…read moreparking lot near after entry for St John's college is the largest and furthest away. Drive up Camino Cruz Blanca and save yourself the 1.5 walk along the road past $1MM homes to these other trailheads. As with everything Dale Ball creates, this is a superbly marked trail system that allows the hiker to plan and tailor their experience. I made a bee-line to the summit of Mt. Picacho. Beautiful vista, but I'll need to return for a sunset and very carefully make my way down the steeper parts of a darkening trail.

A challenging hike, but absolutely worth it!…read more When we went, the parking area had some construction going on, but it was still usable. There are several trails that start from the lot, so it will be used. The construction seems to be to connect this trailhead area to the nearby nature preserve society buildings and educational area. Which, by the way, is the closest restroom facilities. For those that need it... The trail is pretty easy to follow, though at the beginning, I was checking the photo I took of the trails and the AllTrails map. There were a couple confusing and unmarked on maps forks, or small dry creek beds or other areas that look like possible trails. And since part of the Picacho Peak trail is along or in a dry creek bed...it can be a little confusing. But once past that, the trails are pretty clear and well marked. It is challenging. It is in a higher elevation than I am generally used to, and even higher again from Albuquerque. And then you are climbing up a dang mountain. Take your time if you need to, bring more water than you think you'll need, bring snacks for energy at the top of the mountain. And enjoy!! The trail was neat and pretty well-maintained. The views are wonderful! And the other folks who will also make this trek are friendly and kind. Very glad we did it!

The views are so worth the sweat! Trails aren't well marked at trailhead, but gets better as you go…read morealong. Moderate to hard effort and you need to pack ample water. Highly recommend this beautiful hike.

We had trouble finding the starting point that we were originally looking for (our Lyft dropped us…read moreelsewhere), but nonetheless we were able to still hike on a beautiful trail. It did not disappoint! It was easy to follow as everything we clearly marked.

This is a nice easy to moderate trail. Plenty of trees and great views to be had. It is not far…read morefrom the plaza and many other great Santa Fe destinations. There is a good sized parking lot. The markings and posting are great and the trail is easy to follow. It is definitely recommended if you are looking for a great way to spend a morning or afternoon in nature.

Beautiful place for a hike! We did the moderate level…read moreChamisa trail. It had elevation and rocky sections. Definitely not for beginners. If doing this trail, ensure you are wearing hiking shoes/boots and bring plenty of water.

(September 27):…read more What a great drive! I've always wanted to see the Fall Foliage in Santa Fe. I absolutely loved the breathtakingly refreshing views and crisp air. Every turn was better then the first and there are a few pull outs, nice to take pictures. Can't wait to go back.

Took this beautiful trail on a Monday morning. You have to…read morepark off the side of the road, as there is no parking lot but there is plenty of parking in the morning. When I arrived, I found parking amongst four vehicles already lined up -- and when I left, about four to five more were parked up and down the road, so don't stress about the parking too much. I do want to mention that there are 'high car prowler' signs, so definitely don't come with valuables/leave valuables in your car. The hike itself takes about an hour to an hour and a half, give or take. A few recommendations: 01. Most of the hike is sun exposed, so do bear that in mind (in case a sunstroke or skin cancer is something of concern). 02. Go in the AM hours as you'll get rather sweaty from the steep uphill trekking. Besides, who doesn't want a gorgeous view at the start of their day? 03. Hiking boots (as it is steep going up and can be slippery going down). I encountered a lot of elderly people too. I'm talking people in their 60's+. It was... very inspiring to see, as this trail is a moderately difficult hike! Quite adorable to see them out there hiking with their dogs and their hiking poles. So kind and friendly too. 100% worth it.

Pretty, easy hike for visiting from flat land beginners offers nice view over St. John's Collegeread more

Beautiful cool and shaded. What? Not good enough? Ok, most of Chamisa is nice soft dirt walking,…read moreTenderfoot! Easy to spot this trail head on left of road after crossing into the National Park from Santa Fe.

We need to have a talk, my Santa Fean Yelp brethren. You undervalue the James Beard-awarded fine…read moredining destination pumping lifeblood into your celebrated art district*. You ignore the historic (and haunted) cemetery where many of your most prominent ancestors rest (or *don't* rest, if my investigation is any indication)**. Worst of all, you apparently have no knowledge of the scenic trail just a few miles northeast of town. Fortunately for you, the dapper, mysterious Ryan M. from San Antonio is here not only to berate but to educate. My father and I were so taken with the Chamisa Trail that I added it to Yelp Santa Fe's business listings. The Chamisa Trailhead is located somewhere between mile markers seven and eight on Hyde Park Rd. Signage is minimal, which might explain the trail's relative obscurity to tourists and locals. When you arrive, you'll notice two paths, neither of which is labeled. The path on the right is apparently the more difficult of the two, a fact my father and I learned the hard way. It was a challenge at times but nothing too strenuous. If you're a girly man (or a LaVeyan Satanist who takes things too literally), then the "left-hand path" would probably be the better option. Both paths begin and end at the parking area, though, so don't worry about getting lost. The word "chamisa" refers to the rubber rabbitbrush that grows wild throughout Santa Fe and parts of the western United States. I could pretend to be a well-traveled authority on ericameria nauseosa, but that would be mendacious of me. No, I learned much about the rabbitbrush from a chatty server at Café Pasqual's, the best place for breakfast in Santa Fe. He informed me that many folks suffer a violent allergic reaction to chamisa, which might explain the Latin prefix "nauseo" in "nauseosa." Thankfully, my father and I suffered no ill effects throughout our three-mile hike. Ironically, I recall seeing very little (if any) chamisa brush on the trail. As I attempt to describe the unmolested beauty of this semi-secluded trail, I find myself resorting to adjectives such as "gorgeous," "scenic," "spectacular," and "peaceful." The Chamisa Trail is indeed all of these and more. Every turn reveals something new: a millennia-old rock formation, an aspen with trembling yellow leaves, a ground squirrel foraging for food. Not once did my father and I hear the sound of a car engine, an airplane, or any semblance of modern life. We had the trail practically to ourselves the entire time, which emphasized the sense of isolation. As I mentioned earlier, the path on the right is definitely the more difficult of the two. If you choose this path, expect a steep, mostly uphill hike with many switchbacks and drop-offs. The most challenging moment of the hike, however, occurred towards the end when we were declining. The section in question was steep and rocky. Had we attempted to navigate it on foot, we probably would have fallen and broken our necks. After some deliberation, we decided to sit and slide down until we reached the bottom. Our exfoliated butt cheeks paid the price, but at least we lived to tell the tale. The mystic charm of Santa Fe is apparent in its art, architecture, cuisine, and the untouched beauty of Hyde State Park, the home of Chamisa Trailhead. Whether you're a local (in which case, shame on you again for neglecting your Yelper duties) or a visitor, then please consider spending an afternoon hiking the Chamisa Trail. You'll appreciate its many gifts and work up an appetite for a world-class meal at either Geronimo or The Compound. *See my review of The Compound: https://www.yelp.com/biz/the-compound-santa-fe?hrid=CL8YFxAUxslYbtKsF28oKw&utm_campaign=www_review_share_popup&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=(direct) **See my review of Fairview Cemetery: https://www.yelp.com/biz/fairview-cemetery-santa-fe?hrid=1kYzceD5CpAKFiqUDxapbw&utm_campaign=www_review_share_popup&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=(direct)

What a fun place to explore! Lots of lovely vegetation,…read morenumerous birds, a great climbing area (see photo) a nice gift shop and fun haiku sprinkled around!

Great birding spot up in the hills above Santa Fe. There are many bird feeders at the visitor…read morecenter where you can see many birds including lots of hummingbirds. Beautiful hilly trail. Well maintained with friendly volunteers! This is the best Audobon center I have visited. Must see for birders. Very beautiful property.

Hillside Park offers great views of Santa Fe, as well as provides historical information about New…read moreMexico and Santa Fe. It's accessible, close to the city centre and the paved walkway makes it easy for all to enjoy. We visited Hillside Park, as it was recommended by a local. It's not a very long or steep walk at all. The walkway is paved with railings and a few steps. Once at the top you can see the Cross of the Martyrs and views of Santa Fe. That's in itself a reason to visit. But what I liked most about Hillside Park is the historical plaques along the walkway, detailing the founding of Santa Fe from its first settlers to when it became a part of the United States and New Mexico today. It is also the historic sight of Fort Marcy, a military reservation in the mid-1800's when U.S. declared war on Mexico. With this trail you can see more informational signs about the war and fort. I would definitely recommend for visitors in Santa Fe to check out Hillside Park, not only for its city views but to learn about the city's history and its significance in the U.S. So glad we came here!

Overlook park to get a view of the city and get some steps. The gate and railing separate Fort…read moreMarcy Park at the top from this park and cross partially funded by the Catholic Church to recognize the 21 Franciscan priests and friars killed in the Pueblo Revolt of 1680 led by Popé (not the Pope), according to a plaque. There are visible signs of consternation on some of the plaques that this recently built park makes no mention of the atrocities that lead to the uprising. Nonetheless, I found the one sided history laid out in the plaques to be educational because it made me look up people and the events.