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This trail climbs steep switchbacks to a vast grassy mesa...the Round-up Ground.


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Map Key

2.9

Miles

4.6

KM

72%

Runnable

6,002' 1,829 m

High

4,890' 1,490 m

Low

1,112' 339 m

Up

628' 192 m

Down

11%

Avg Grade (7°)

39%

Max Grade (21°)

Dogs Off-leash

Features Views · Wildlife

Runner Notes

There is no trail that returns from Purgatory Canyon to the trailhead. You simply run the canyon bottom back to the parking area. You can return via an out-and-back as well.

Description

The trail begins across the arroyo from the Alamo Canyon Trail and TH. Climbing steep and rocky switchbacks leads to rolling terrain as you near the grassland of the Round-up Ground.

Nearing 2.7 miles, there is a left turn that takes you down the drainage to Purgatory Canyon. This trail is narrow with some steep drops on the right side. You'll hit another drainage where the trail seems to disappear, however, you must follow this down to the canyon bottom.

The trail terminates at the canyon bottom where you can follow the Alamo Canyon Trail (T104) back to the trailhead or go up the canyon toward West Side Road on the Purgatory Canyon Trail (T103).

Flora & Fauna

Cacti and high desert vegetation and animals. Frequent elk sightings near the Round-up Ground.

Contacts

Shared By:

Eric Borer

Trail Ratings

  3.7 from 3 votes

#4

in Alamogordo

#23984

Overall
  3.7 from 3 votes
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Trail Rankings

#4

in Alamogordo

#353

in New Mexico

#23,984

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2 Views Last Month
432 Since Jan 27, 2017
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Photos

Crossing the Arroyo. Looking NW.
Nov 12, 2017 near Alamogordo, NM
Looking northeast toward Purgatory Canyon. Taken from the junction just before the descent.
Jan 20, 2017 near Alamogordo, NM
Sunset over the basin and the distant San Andreas Mountains from the arroyo.
Jan 20, 2017 near Alamogordo, NM
Just after the descent into Pugatory Canyon, heading toward the arroyo.
Jan 20, 2017 near Alamogordo, NM

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