Nogal Peak, New Mexico

Nogal Peak has become a favorite hike of mine for many reasons.  My daughters and I have been here so many times I have lost count.  We go once or twice a year.  The hike is moderate, with some difficult parts – especially near the top.  I would not recommend it in bad weather.  I have been lucky that the weather has cooperated every time we do hike up there.  The wind is bad in the spring thought.  Be sure to bring plenty of water.

The distance is only 2.5 miles but with an elevation difference of 1200 feet.  We always take our time, so it takes a few hours.  It is always nice because this is not a popular site so we rarely run into people.  At about .5 miles in from the trailhead, the trail splits into two. The right takes you to the peak and the left is a short trek to a small mountaintop.  When you get to the small mountaintop, look left in the bushes for a geocache.  We left it there in honor of my husband who passed away in 2015. We always stop there first and then hike to the top.

The trail to the top is absolutely beautiful.  You go from thick trees to empty plains and even some locations you may have to bushwhack your way through.  Once you reach the top, the view is breathtaking.  You can see forever around the entire area.  The last leg of the hike is the most difficult and people want to quit, but don’t – it will be worth it.

We always take our dogs who love the outdoors.  Check out the videos below that provide better details of the hike.  You can also see comments from other hikers here.