Distance: 2.5 miles (total, out and back)
Water: Rio Grande is the only water source. Can filter water if the river is clear
Season: Year round – summer will be extremely hot
Likely, the hardest part of this trail will be find it. Going north of Taos on NM 68, turn left toward John Dunn Bridge. Once you’ve crossed the bridge, the road switchbacks out of the canyon. Less than a mile after reaching the plateau, there will be a larger, three way junction. Turn right (north) and after a couple miles, once you’ve passed a cluster of houses, there will be another fork. Take the right fork again on TP 219 (the road sign is just 200 yards after the junction) and go for another few miles until the road opens into a parking lot. There will be a sign indicating the Miner’s Trail.
Especially depending on any recent rains, this section of road will require a high clearance vehicle.
From the parking lot, follow the trail down towards the canyon. The slope is relatively gentle and there will be a few switchbacks. Despite the fact the the trail sees little traffic, it is in good condition and easy to follow.
You will reach the Rio Grande, below the confluence of the Red River on a pretty stretch of remote river, downstream of the Wild Rivers Section.
Enjoy the views and feel free to amble up and downstream before returning to the rim.
